Waiting on a background check can be stressful - especially when a job offer, volunteer placement, or start date depends on it. While most background checks are completed quickly, some take longer due to factors many applicants and organizations don’t see. This guide explains why background checks take so long, what causes delays, and what you can realistically do about them.
Most background checks are completed within 1-3 business days. However, timelines vary depending on:
National court access overview: https://www.ncsc.org
When a background check extends beyond a few days, it’s usually due to one or more components being delayed - not the entire report.
Criminal records are maintained at the county level. While some courts are fully digitized, others still require in-person searches.
This means:
Court system reference: https://www.ncsc.org
Courts close for:
During peak seasons - especially late November through early January - background check delays are common.
Applicants with common names (e.g., “John Smith”) often require additional identity confirmation to avoid false matches.
This extra diligence protects applicants but adds time.
If an applicant has:
Then each jurisdiction must be searched separately, which increases turnaround time.
These checks rely on third parties responding.
Delays happen when:
Verification delays are among the most common causes of extended screening timelines.
Typos in names, dates of birth, or SSNs can pause a background check until clarification is received. Even small errors can trigger reprocessing.
Foreign criminal or education records often require:
These checks routinely take weeks, not days.
In most cases, delays are procedural - not personal.
Employers or screening providers can usually identify whether the delay is due to:
Knowing the cause helps set expectations.
Double-check:
Providing clarification quickly can prevent further delays.
If the screening provider requests additional information, respond promptly to avoid extending timelines.
Most delays resolve without issue. If a background check exceeds 5-7 business days, it’s reasonable for the employer to follow up with the provider.
Let candidates know delays are common and provide status updates.
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), decisions must be based on complete reports.
Some roles allow:
Always consult legal counsel before proceeding.
Experienced providers maintain nationwide researcher networks.
Verify applicant data before submitting screening requests.
Tell candidates most checks take 1-3 days but may take longer.
Plan hiring around known court closure windows.
Continuous monitoring reduces reliance on frequent re-checks.
Bchex minimizes delays by offering:
Bchex helps organizations and applicants understand what’s happening - without guesswork.
If your background check is taking longer than expected, it’s usually due to court access, verification delays, or data accuracy - not a negative finding. Understanding the process helps reduce stress and keeps expectations realistic.
Dealing with frequent background check delays?
Bchex delivers fast, accurate screening with clear visibility to help keep hiring and onboarding moving forward.
Q: How long is too long for a background check?
More than 5-7 business days usually warrants a follow-up.
Q: Can I speed up my background check?
Providing accurate information and responding quickly helps.
Q: Do delays mean I failed the background check?
No. Delays are usually procedural.
Q: Which checks take the longest?
County criminal searches and employment verifications.
Q: Should I contact the screening company directly?
Typically, the employer or organization manages communication.