Why Do Background Checks Get Delayed?

Background checks get delayed when required information, records, or responses aren’t readily available.

Delays can happen at several points in the screening process. Some are waiting for candidate authorization, retrieving court records, or receiving verification from employment and education sources. Delays can often be reduced with accurate candidate information, friendly workflows, clear communication, and the right screening technology.

Here are seven questions that explain why background checks get delayed and what employers can do to keep the process moving.

Can the Candidate Cause the Background Check to be Delayed?

Yes. Candidates can slow down a background check by providing (either accidentally or on purpose) incomplete or inaccurate information or failing to complete required authorization forms promptly. Incorrect or missing details may require additional research and verification, which takes extra time.

How Can Criminal Searches Delay the Background Check?

Courts and jurisdictions differ in how they store, access, and retrieve records. Some records are available electronically, while others require “old school” manual research or courthouse assistance. Potential matches may also require additional investigation to confirm identifiers or case details. These extra steps can increase turnaround time, but they help support accurate, complete background screening results.

Why Can Employment Verification Delay a Background Check?

Employment verification can take longer because the former employer or the designated verification source must respond. If employment records are difficult to access, a previous employer has closed, or the information provided by the candidate is incomplete or inaccurate, it can delay the process. Providing complete employer names, dates of employment, and other requested details at the beginning can help avoid slowdowns.

How Can Verifying Education Delay the Background Check?

Education verification can take longer when schools respond slowly or records aren’t readily accessible. Name changes, incomplete school information, or discrepancies involving attendance dates, degrees, or graduation status may also require additional research. Candidates can help avoid unnecessary delays by providing accurate school names, dates of attendance, degrees earned, and other requested information upfront.

Can Outdated Technology Delay a Background Check?

Yes. Inefficient technology can create unnecessary steps that slow the background screening process. Manual data entry, separate systems, limited mobile capabilities, and a lack of automated notifications can all create bottlenecks. An integrated, mobile-friendly screening tech stack streamlines candidate authorization, reduce duplicate data entry, automate routine communications, and help employers proactively identify and address delays.

Can Your Background Screening Provider Cause Delays?

Yes. Your background screening provider can contribute to delays through inefficient processes, outdated technology, poor communication, or slow follow-up when additional research is required.

How Can Employers Reduce Background Check Delays?

Employers can’t prevent every background check delay, but they can take steps to eliminate unnecessary holdups and keep the hiring process moving.

• Collect accurate candidate information upfront. Ask candidates to provide complete, accurate information and review it carefully before submitting.

• Make candidate tasks easy. Use mobile-friendly authorization forms, clear instructions, and automated reminders. Make it simple for candidates to complete required steps and respond quickly to requests for additional information.

• Eliminate manual processes. Look for unnecessary data entry, disconnected systems, and repetitive administrative tasks. Integrating background screening into your hiring technology can create a more efficient workflow.

• Respond quickly to issues. Monitor screening progress and address requests for additional information as soon as possible.

• Evaluate your background screening provider. Choose an experienced provider with modern technology, clear status updates, and responsive, knowledgeable support.

Keep Background Checks Moving Forward

Background check delays can cost employers valuable time and potentially great candidates. While some delays are outside your control, many can be reduced with better preparation, strong communication, and the right screening partner. Take time to identify where your current journey tends to stall, fix preventable bottlenecks, and make faster background screening part of a more efficient hiring process.