
A bank background check is a thorough process that helps financial institutions verify the identity and credibility of potential employees, business partners, or customers. This process typically involves a series of checks, including verification of identification documents.
The first step in a bank background check is to verify the individual's identification documents, such as their driver's license, passport, or state ID. This is usually done through a database search or by contacting the issuing authority directly.
A bank background check may also involve a review of the individual's employment history, education, and any past convictions or civil lawsuits. This information is often obtained from public records or through a third-party screening service.
Financial institutions must comply with regulations and laws, such as the Bank Secrecy Act, which requires them to verify the identity of customers and report suspicious activity.
What is a Background Check?
A background check is a thorough examination of an individual's past to verify their identity and determine their suitability for a particular role.
There is no industry standard for background checks, so what's included can vary from one institution to the next.
A financial background check may include reports to confirm a candidate's employment eligibility based on compliance regulations and business policies.
Criminal and financial background checks can serve to flag prior convictions that would make the candidate ineligible for a particular position.
Certain factors, such as a recent bankruptcy or history of financial fraud, could indicate that an individual is at a higher risk of fraudulent activity.
Employers must comply with federal, state, or local laws, which may apply to background checks.
Conducting a Background Check
Conducting a bank background check can be a complex process, but it's essential to ensure you're hiring the right person for the job. Individual background checks may be requested from various sources, including government entities, courts, and previous employers.
Employers will need to contact the relevant agencies, order and pay for reports, and handle all individual candidate communication about the background check process. This can be time-consuming and costly.
Working with a professional background check provider, also known as a consumer reporting agency (CRA), can make the process easier and more cost-effective. This way, you can minimize manual labor and speed up the background check process.
What Does a Background Consist Of?
A background check can vary in scope depending on the institution and position, but it may include reports to confirm employment eligibility based on compliance regulations and business policies.
Criminal and financial background checks can flag prior convictions that make a candidate ineligible for a particular position or a concern to institutions under certain federal regulatory agencies.
A recent bankruptcy or history of financial fraud can indicate a higher risk of fraudulent activity, which employers should be aware of.
Employers must comply with FDIC background check requirements, including an OCC lifetime ban list check for certain positions.
Having all the information provided by a background check allows companies to make informed hiring decisions.
How to Conduct
Conducting a background check can be a complex process, but it doesn't have to be. To start, you may need to request records directly from government entities, courts, previous employers, and other sources, depending on the report and jurisdiction.
Employers will need to contact the relevant agencies, order and pay for reports, and handle all individual candidate communication about the background check process. This can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task.
Working with a professional background check provider, also known as a consumer reporting agency (CRA), can be a more efficient and cost-effective option. Employers can build customized background check packages based on their company's specific needs.
Checkr is an example of a CRA that enables employers to streamline the background check process by requesting reports, including OCC exclusion list checks, and adjudicating results through one easy-to-use dashboard.
Background Check Requirements
The FDIC requires financial institutions to conduct detailed background checks when hiring to protect customers from financial fraud and abuse.
These checks must be designed to protect the institution from potential legal liabilities and reputational damage. The FDIC has extensive guidelines for conducting background checks.
Everyone involved in the process must follow applicable laws and regulations relating to data security and privacy protection. This includes protecting the confidentiality of customer data and employee records.
Complying with FDIC background check requirements is a critical component of building trust with regulators and applicants. Financial services institutions must continue to meet FDIC requirements even as they look to streamline how background checks are conducted.
What Employers Seek
Employers typically look for signs that a candidate has previously demonstrated responsible handling of finances or sensitive information. They want to verify the candidate's experience and qualifications, especially if the position requires a certain level of education, experience, or professional licensing.
Employers often focus on records that show evidence of a candidate's experience handling finances, credit history, and any criminal convictions related to finance. This includes checking for bankruptcies and other financial red flags.
Employers want to ensure that their financial services employees are not at a higher risk of fraudulent activity, which is why they look for factors such as a recent bankruptcy, history of financial fraud, or pending judgments. This helps protect both the company and its clients.
Employers may also check for compliance with federal regulatory agencies, such as the FDIC, OCC, and CFPB, as well as state or local laws. An OCC lifetime ban list check is required by the FDIC for certain positions, and employers must comply with these lifetime bans.
Requirements for Institutions
The FDIC requires financial institutions to conduct detailed background checks when hiring. These requirements are designed to protect customers from financial fraud and abuse, as well as protect the institution from potential legal liabilities and reputational damage.
Institutions must follow the FDIC's extensive guidelines for conducting background checks, which address areas such as protecting the confidentiality of customer data and employee records. This includes following the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Employers in the financial services industry can determine whether or not to conduct a background check, but there are many benefits to doing so. Running a thorough background check can help you avoid hiring an employee who may be inclined to commit fraud, identity theft, or other crimes involving dishonesty or breach of trust.
The FDIC has a searchable database of people who are barred from financial services employment because of applicable convictions. This is a good resource to start with when conducting a comprehensive background check.
Employers are usually looking to identify certain trends, qualifications, or warning signs in a candidate’s history, particularly records that can show evidence of a candidate’s experience handling finances and credit history. They also want to see that the individual has not violated important financial regulations during prior employment.
The FDIC requires fingerprinting for all people subject to background checks, as outlined in Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. This is to ensure that individuals with a history of crimes of dishonesty or breach of trust are not employed at an FDIC-affiliated institution.
Institutions must comply with the FDIC's requirements, even as they look to streamline how background checks are conducted. Partnering with a trusted background screening provider can help navigate this complex legal landscape with confidence.
FDIC Compliance and Noncompliance
To comply with FDIC regulations, financial institutions must safeguard consumers' sensitive data, which may require comprehensive background checks on employees handling that data.
The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) is a federal law that governs this requirement, and institutions must maintain compliance with it.
Certain offenses revealed by a background check automatically disqualify candidates from working at FDIC-insured institutions.
Individuals and organizations can submit an application to dispute their placement on the FDIC's exclusion list, allowing them to potentially clear their name and regain employment opportunities.
FDIA Section 19
The FDIA Section 19 is a crucial aspect of FDIC compliance.
It prohibits certain individuals from working for an FDIC-insured financial institution. These individuals include those who have been convicted of, or taken a pretrial plea deal involving, criminal offenses related to money laundering, breach of trust, or dishonesty.
The FDIC has provided guidance on the most effective pre-employment screening process for financial institutions to follow. This process includes fingerprinting for all people subject to FDIC background checks.
Banks can't hire a candidate with a history of identity theft, for example, because operating within the organization necessarily involves handling sensitive consumer data. There are exceptions, including for offenses that have been expunged or sealed.
The FDIC's website has a searchable database of people who are barred from financial services employment because of applicable convictions. This can be a helpful resource for financial institutions conducting background checks.
In 2020, the FDIC approved a final rule that expanded what is considered a de minimis offense, an offense that doesn't require further agency review. This rule eliminated the waiting period for a single covered de minimis offense and reduced the waiting period for a second covered offense.
The latest Fair Hiring in Banking Act included amendments to Section 19, providing guidance on FDIC review of Section 19 applications and conditions in which criminal offenses are excluded from Section 19 consideration. These include certain older offenses, as well as some previously deemed dishonesty-related offenses.
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)
The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) is a federal law that requires financial institutions to safeguard consumers' sensitive data.
Maintaining compliance with this law means that institutions may need to perform comprehensive background checks on all employees who will be in possession of that consumer data.
This law is in place to protect consumers' financial information from unauthorized access or theft, which can cause significant financial harm.
Other Common Elements

Background checks for FDIC-insured institutions involve a review of an applicant's criminal record. A credit report is also part of this process.
Certain offenses revealed by a background check automatically disqualify candidates from working at FDIC-insured institutions. Individuals and organizations can submit an application to dispute their placement on the FDIC's exclusion list.
Applicants' educational and employment history is also reviewed during the background check process. This information must be gathered under applicable federal laws regarding consumer privacy and nondiscrimination.
Who Must Complete an FDIC Form?
Anyone who has an impact on a bank or financial institution's operations must complete an FDIC background check, including employees, contractors, and consultants.
Banks and financial institutions insured by the FDIC are required to run these checks before hiring someone new or whenever someone changes their job title or role within the organization.
Not everyone in the financial industry is bound by FDIC regulations, however - credit unions, for instance, are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and follow its own rules and regulations.
3 Tips for FDIC Compliance
FDIC background checks are required for anyone who has an impact on the institution's operations, including employees, contractors, and consultants.
To ensure compliance, it's essential to understand that FDIC background checks are not just limited to new hires, but also whenever someone changes their job title or role within the organization.
Banks and financial institutions insured by the FDIC are bound by FDIC regulations, but credit unions, for example, are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and follow their own rules.
The FDIC has issued multiple updates in recent years, including a final rule in 2020 that expanded what is considered a de minimis offense, which doesn't require further agency review.
Convictions normally considered to be an offense of record under Section 19 are excluded if they've been expunged or sealed, and the waiting period for a single covered de minimis offense has been eliminated.
To maintain FDIC compliance, it's crucial to gather all necessary information under applicable federal laws regarding consumer privacy and nondiscrimination, including a review of the applicant's criminal record, credit report, and educational and employment history.
Certain offenses revealed by a background check automatically disqualify candidates from working at FDIC-insured institutions, but individuals and organizations may submit an application to dispute their placement on the agency's exclusion list.
Consequences of FDIC Noncompliance
Failing to comply with FDIC background check requirements can have serious consequences. Civil monetary penalties can be imposed, with fines reaching millions of dollars depending on the severity of the violation.
Knowingly violating Section 19 can result in fines of up to $1 million for each day of violation, imprisonment of up to five years, or both. This is a significant risk for financial institutions that don't take FDIC regulations seriously.
FDIC-insured institutions that engage in risky behavior can risk suspension or termination of insurance. This means they may no longer be able to offer FDIC insurance to their customers.
In response to a cease-and-desist order, institutions may need to implement specific changes to protect customers' interests. This could include internal audits of the background screening process or additional training programs for recruiters and hiring managers.
Increased regulatory and public scrutiny are other possible consequences of failing to meet FDIC background check requirements. Noncompliance can erode confidence among customers and investors.
Financial institutions must proactively monitor changes in agency guidance and regularly review their internal auditing processes to remain in compliance.
Tips and Best Practices
When you're applying for a bank job, a thorough background check is a must. This involves a review of your credit history, employment history, and other personal details.
A good credit score is essential for a bank background check, as it indicates your financial responsibility. Aim for a score of 700 or higher to increase your chances of approval.
Be honest when filling out your application, as any discrepancies can lead to your application being rejected. Employers want to know the truth, so don't try to hide anything.
Employment history is also scrutinized during a bank background check, so highlight your relevant work experience and skills. This will help you stand out from other applicants.
Your personal details, such as your address and phone number, will also be verified. Make sure they're up-to-date and accurate to avoid any delays in the process.
In some cases, a bank background check may involve a review of your social media profiles. Keep your online presence professional and respectful, as this can reflect poorly on you.
Be prepared for a thorough review of your financial history, including any past debts or bankruptcies. This is a normal part of the background check process, so don't be alarmed if it's mentioned.
Background Check Industry
The background check industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with the global market expected to reach $12.8 billion by 2028. This surge in demand is largely driven by the increasing need for employment screening in various industries.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulates the background check industry, requiring employers to obtain consent from applicants before conducting a check. This law also outlines the procedures for reporting and using background check information.
Background checks are typically conducted by third-party agencies, which collect and verify information from various sources, including public records, social media, and professional networks.
Industry
The background check industry is a vital part of many sectors, including finance. Background checks can be performed for various positions, such as financial services associate and banking manager.
In the financial industry, background checks are often used to screen candidates for employment. This includes positions like financial consultant and banking executive.
A Global Verification Network background screening can provide valuable information about job candidates, including employment and educational history, criminal records, and more. This information is highly accurate and current, and it complies with FDIC background check requirements.
Some common types of background checks for financial institutions include checks for financial services associates, banking associates, and banking managers.
Industry Insights
The financial industry is a significant sector that our background check services cater to. We have a client base that includes small to large retail and commercial banks in the U.S. and internationally.
Our expertise extends to providing comprehensive background screening solutions to credit unions, brokerage firms, mortgage companies, and insurance companies.
We take pride in being readily available to provide support to financial institutions in conducting efficient and secure background checks. Our top priority is always the client.
Background Check Benefits and Statistics
In almost all cases, conducting a background check is worth the time, effort, and cost, even if it's not required by law. This is because running a thorough background check can help you avoid hiring an employee who may be inclined to commit fraud, identity theft, or other crimes involving dishonesty or breach of trust.
It's common for employers in the financial services industry to require thorough background checks, especially since financial professionals handle sensitive customer data and deal with other people's money. This can help you meet regulatory compliance requirements and ensure the protection of your customer's privacy.
Conducting a background check can also give you peace of mind knowing you're hiring an individual who has the proper qualifications and qualities. By running checks on a job candidate's education, licensing, and employment history, you'll have a clear picture of their background.
Running a thorough background check can help reduce the risk of being held liable for an employee's crime. This is especially important in the financial services industry where employees handle sensitive information and have access to other people's money.
Laws and Regulations
The Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA) sets standards for all insured banks and prohibits individuals with certain criminal convictions from participating in their affairs.
The FDIA also requires written consent from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) for individuals with pretrial diversion or other options.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act must be followed when conducting a financial services background check.
Banks and credit unions must conduct criminal background checks to determine if potential employees have criminal records that impact their employability.
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) also has regulations in place, prohibiting individuals with certain convictions from participating in the affairs of an insured credit union.
Investment advisors must obtain licenses from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and undergo a thorough background check as part of the process.
Dodd-Frank Act
The Dodd-Frank Act is a federal law that provides protections to consumers and imposes regulatory oversight on the financial services industry. It's a crucial piece of legislation that affects many aspects of our lives, including employment.
If an employer runs a credit check on a potential or current employee, they must notify the employee and disclose specific information. This includes the actual credit score received, how the score was considered, which model was used, and which CRA provided the score.
Employers must follow these rules to ensure they're treating employees fairly and transparently.
Laws
The Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA) prohibits individuals with certain convictions from participating in the affairs of an insured depository institution.
To comply with these requirements, banks and credit unions must conduct criminal background checks to determine if employees have criminal records that impact their employability.
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) also has similar requirements, prohibiting individuals with convictions involving breach of trust or dishonesty from participating in the affairs of an insured credit union.
Investment advisors must obtain licenses from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) before selling securities, and a thorough background check is required as part of this process.
A financial services background check must be conducted in a way that complies with local, state, and federal laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act.
Compliance with the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) may also require comprehensive background checks on employees who will be in possession of consumer data.
Financial institutions must safeguard consumers' sensitive data, and background checks can be a crucial step in maintaining compliance with this law.
Background Check Services
Global Verification Network offers a comprehensive suite of financial screening services, including Anti-Money Laundering checks to ensure compliance with regulations like the BSA and FCPA.
Their services also include Commercial Due Diligence, which researches courts and agencies around the world to provide current information. This helps financial institutions make informed hiring decisions.
Global Verification Network's services are fast, accurate, and affordable, with a focus on ensuring compliance with FCRA and financial industry regulations. They provide high-quality services at affordable prices.
Here are some of the key services they offer:
- Anti-Money Laundering
- Commercial Due Diligence
- Credit Risk Management
- Fraud Detection and Prevention
- Real Estate
Global Verification Network
Global Verification Network is a leading provider of background check services for the financial industry. Their comprehensive suite of financial screening services includes Anti-Money Laundering checks to ensure compliance with regulations like the BSA and FCPA.
They offer Commercial Due Diligence to research courts and agencies worldwide for current information. Credit Risk Management is also available to develop a complete consumer profile of applicants, helping employers gauge future behavior.
Global Verification Network provides Fraud Detection and Prevention by searching numerous databases to confirm an applicant's background and identify any fraud patterns. Their Real Estate services help reduce mortgage fraud by ensuring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.
Their services can be used to verify candidate credentials and biographical information, enhance safety and security, and reduce employee turnover. By using Global Verification Network, employers can extend employment offers to exceptional candidates quickly.
Here are some benefits of using Global Verification Network:
- Verification of candidate credentials and biographical information
- Enhanced safety and security for employees, vendors, and customers
- Cost savings from reduced employee turnover
- Ability to extend employment offers to exceptional candidates quickly
Their financial background checks can include criminal and financial background checks, which can flag prior convictions or indicate a higher risk of fraudulent activity. Employers should consult with their own legal counsel to ensure they understand which FDIC background check requirements they must meet.
Screening Package
A thorough background check can help you avoid hiring an employee who may be inclined to commit fraud or other crimes involving dishonesty. This can give you peace of mind knowing you're hiring someone with the proper qualifications and qualities.
For financial professionals, handling sensitive customer data and dealing with other people's money requires a high level of trust. Employers often require background checks to ensure the protection of customer privacy and reduce the risk of being held liable for an employee's crime.
Conducting a background check can also help you meet regulatory compliance requirements. This is especially important in the financial services industry where laws and regulations are strict.
You can choose from a variety of screening packages to suit your needs. Some packages may include:
- Verification of candidate credentials and biographical information
- Enhanced safety and security for your employees, vendors, and customers
- Cost savings from reduced employee turnover
- Ability to extend employment offers to exceptional candidates quickly
A reliable background check provider like Global Verification Network can help you make informed decisions about prospective employees, tenants, business partners, or financial professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are FDIC background check requirements?
The FDIC requires background checks that include FBI fingerprint and name checks, as well as a search of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) database for suspicious activity. These checks help ensure the integrity of financial institutions and protect against financial crimes.
Sources
- https://checkr.com/resources/articles/background-check-for-financial-services
- https://blog.cisive.com/your-must-have-guide-to-fdic-background-check-requirements
- https://www.globalverificationnetwork.com/who-we-serve/financial-and-banking-background-check-services/
- https://www.health-street.net/industry/financial/background-checks/
- https://iprospectcheck.com/industry/finance/
Featured Images: pexels.com