Talent acquisition and HR professionals already understand the key terms used in the hiring process—including applicant tracking, job requisition, and non-compete, just to name a few. But when it comes to background screening—a key component of an effective hiring process—there are even more terms to know. And some of those terms are quite complex.

If you’ve ever wondered what an accelerated rehabilitation disposition is, or you think you’ve heard of an ex parte judgment but you’re not sure, BIB is here to help! Check out our glossary of common background check terms.

In the glossary, you’ll find hundreds of background check definitions and terms you may see on screening reports and other documents related to the employment and volunteer screening process. Definitions in the glossary cover a range of categories, including:

• Legal
• Legal terms
• Criminal activities
• Drug testing terminology
• Terms used in court and law enforcement documents
• Common abbreviations and acronyms, such as the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO)

And many more!

With the aid of the glossary, you’ll be better equipped to read background check reports and understand the meaning behind the terms used to describe an applicant’s background.

We know running background checks is just one of the many responsibilities you have on your plate, so we hope the background check definitions glossary helps if you run into a term you don't understand. Feel free to bookmark the glossary for quick reference!