If you’re based in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, or anywhere else in the state of Washington and are preparing to apply for a job, there’s a strong chance your potential employer will check your background before extending an offer or during the hiring process.
But do you know what that report might reveal?
Conducting your own background check allows you to uncover possible mistakes, verify that your records are accurate, and see exactly what hiring managers will review.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to run a self-background check in Washington and outline the important state-specific rules and procedures you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- Running a self-background check in Washington helps you identify and correct inaccuracies, spot signs of identity theft, strengthen your professional image, and prepare for employer inquiries.
- In Washington, background checks often include identity verification, criminal history searches, driving record reviews, education and employment verification, professional license checks, and occasionally a review of social media activity.
- At iprospectcheck, we provide accurate and secure personal background check services that meet the same standards trusted by employers throughout Washington.
Why Run a Background Check on Yourself in Washington?
1. Fix Errors Before Employers Find Them
Background check reports aren’t always correct.
They may contain outdated data, inaccurate details, or records that actually belong to someone else with a similar name.
By reviewing your own report ahead of time, you can catch and correct these mistakes before they impact your job prospects.
2. Catch Identity Theft Early
If your personal information has been misused, your background check could include unfamiliar accounts or criminal records.
Running a self-background check helps you identify these red flags early, start resolving them, and address any concerns with potential employers if needed.
3. Review Your Online Reputation
Before you start applying for new jobs, it’s smart to look over your social media presence from a professional standpoint.
In Washington, many employers check applicants’ public social media activity, and even seemingly harmless posts can raise concerns.
iprospectcheck’s social media screening services can help you flag content that may appear unprofessional or outdated so you can make a better impression online.
4. Prepare for Interview Conversations
Hiring managers often bring up findings from background reports during interviews.
When you already know what’s in your report, you can plan honest, confident answers that demonstrate transparency and professionalism.
This preparation helps you stay composed and ready for any questions that come your way.
What Shows Up on a Personal Background Check in Washington?
The details included in a personal background check depend on the position you’re pursuing, and any state or industry regulations tied to it.
Most personal background reports generally include the following key components:
Identity Verification
The first step in any background check is verifying your identity.
Companies like iprospectcheck use this process to confirm that the records being reviewed belong to you and not to someone else with a similar name.
Accurate identity verification ensures that your report is complete and trustworthy.
Criminal History
A Washington criminal background check may include searches of national criminal databases, state criminal records, federal criminal records, and county-level court files.
These searches typically focus on areas where you’ve lived, worked, or attended school during the past seven years.
Depending on the role, the report may list pending charges, misdemeanors, or felony convictions.
Records that have been sealed, vacated, or that did not lead to a conviction are generally excluded.
In most cases, background checks follow a seven-year reporting limit that begins on the date of conviction, parole, or release.
Social Media Analysis
A social media screening reviews your public activity, such as posts, photos, and comments, on major platforms.
The findings are summarized to show what a potential employer might see when evaluating your online presence during the hiring process.
Get Your Personal Background Check Today!
How to Run a Background Check on Yourself in Washington
Option 1: Do-It-Yourself Search
You can collect your own background information by using official state and federal resources.
Below are some key options:
- Washington Criminal History Records – Request a copy of your criminal background report through the Washington State Patrol (WSP). Use the WATCH (Washington Access to Criminal History) system to review arrests and convictions recorded by the state. Note that some county or out-of-state records may not appear in this report.
- Local Court Records – Employers often review county or city court records for areas where you’ve lived or worked. You can search these records through the Washington Courts Online Case Search portal or by visiting the clerk’s office in the relevant county.
- Driving Record – If you’re applying for a job that involves driving, your employer may review your driving history. You can obtain your personal driving record from the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) to check for past violations, suspensions, or other entries.
- Federal Court Records – Certain positions require federal court record checks. You can access your civil or criminal case history by subscribing to the PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) and searching by name.
- Sex Offender Registry – To ensure your information is correct, search your name in the Washington State Sex Offender Registry and on the National Sex Offender Public Website. These databases are commonly reviewed as part of comprehensive background checks.
- Social Media and Online Presence – Use search engines to review what appears when you look up your name, and examine your public social media profiles. Employers in Washington may review public content, so it’s wise to ensure your profiles reflect a professional image.
- Education Verification – Contact your schools, colleges, or certification programs to request official transcripts or proof of degree completion.
- Employment Verification – Reach out to your previous employers to confirm job titles, dates of employment, and responsibilities. If they use a third-party verification service, you may have to follow their specific process.
Pros:
- Low or no cost
- Access to official public records
- Full control over the process
Cons:
- Time-consuming to gather and verify data
- Some records require authorization or credentials
- Results may be difficult to interpret
- Final report won’t match employer-facing formats
Best For:
Washington job seekers who prefer to conduct their own research and want a no-cost or low-cost review of their background information.
Option 2: Order a Personal Background Check from iprospectcheck
For a faster and more comprehensive solution, you can order a professional personal background check through iprospectcheck.
We provide FCRA-compliant reports that mirror what many Washington employers use during their hiring process.
Pros:
- Professionally compiled, detailed reports
- Reviewed by certified screening experts
- Fast turnaround time
- Secure, private digital access
- Clear, easy-to-read formatting
- Strict data security and privacy standards
Cons:
- Requires payment for services
- Personal details must be submitted for identity verification
Best For:
Individuals who want a complete, accurate, and professionally formatted report without the hassle of gathering records manually.
How to Get Started:
Visit our secure portal and provide your full legal name, any previous names, Social Security number, and full address history.
Once your report is complete, review it carefully for accuracy.
If you discover errors, such as incorrect criminal information or job history, contact us for support.
To correct criminal records in Washington, you may also need to reach out to the Washington State Patrol or the relevant county court that maintains the record.
Get a Personal Background Check in Washington with iprospectcheck
Running your own background check before applying for jobs in Washington allows you to identify errors, update outdated information, and be fully prepared for any questions that may arise during hiring.
At iprospectcheck, we provide accurate, professional-grade personal background checks for individuals across Washington and throughout the U.S.
Order your report today and move forward in your job search with confidence, knowing exactly what potential employers might see.
DISCLAIMER: The resources provided here are for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult your counsel if you have legal questions related to your specific practices and compliance with applicable laws.
FAQs
How much does a personal background check in Washington cost?
At iprospectcheck, we offer several personal background check packages for Washington residents:
- Basic Personal Background Check – starting at $39.95
- Employer-Level Background Check – starting at $59.95
- Executive Premium Package – starting at $99.95
Please note that county court access fees and optional add-ons, such as education or professional license verification, are not included in the base price and may vary depending on your specific needs.
We also provide a Social Media Analysis Report as an optional service for $49.95.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Personal Background Check in Washington?
Most background reports ordered through iprospectcheck are completed within one hour.
If your report includes multiple counties, out-of-state searches, or additional verifications, it may take longer (up to 30 days) depending on how quickly agencies respond.
Do expunged records show up on a background check in Washington?
In most cases, expunged or sealed records in Washington do not appear on standard employment background checks used by private employers.
However, certain employers, such as law enforcement, healthcare providers, or state licensing boards, may be legally permitted to review sealed information in specific circumstances.
If you’re applying for a regulated role, such as one requiring a professional license or involving vulnerable populations, confirm with the appropriate agency which records may be reviewed.
How far back do background checks go in Washington?
In Washington, criminal convictions can generally be reported indefinitely unless they have been vacated or sealed.
At iprospectcheck, our standard background check scope covers seven years of criminal history, reporting felony and misdemeanor convictions in accordance with federal and state law.
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), non-conviction information, such as arrests or civil cases, is limited to a seven-year reporting window for positions paying under $75,000 per year.
Certain industries, including healthcare, education, finance, and public safety, may require more extensive background reviews to meet federal or state compliance requirements.
What are my rights under background check laws in Washington?
Several federal and state laws protect job seekers in Washington during the background check process:
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): This federal law safeguards your privacy and ensures employers handle your personal information responsibly. Employers must get your written consent before running a background check and follow specific steps if they decide not to hire you based on the results.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: This law prohibits employers from making hiring decisions based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It also requires that all background check policies be directly related to the job and applied fairly to all candidates.
- Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act (FCA): This federal law applies to federal agencies and contractors, prohibiting them from asking about criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made.
- Vacating Criminal Convictions: Under Washington state law, RCW 9.94A.640, certain misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and felonies can be vacated when specific conditions are met. Once vacated, the conviction is removed from the public record and won’t appear on employment background checks.
- Salary History Ban: Washington law (RCW 49.58.100) prohibits employers from asking about your salary history before making an offer. You can voluntarily share it, but they can’t require it or use it to determine pay before offering the job.
- Statewide Ban-the-Box Law: RCW 49.94.010 prevents employers from asking about criminal history on job applications in Washington. Employers can only review criminal records after determining you’re qualified for the role.
- Seattle Fair Chance Employment Law: Seattle’s local ordinance expands Ban-the-Box protections, barring employers from considering criminal history until after initial screening is complete.
- Use of Arrest Information: According to the Washington Human Rights Commission, employers shouldn’t use arrests that didn’t lead to convictions when making hiring decisions, though pending cases and convictions can be considered.
- Credit Report Restrictions: RCW 19.182.020 limits when employers can request credit reports in Washington. It’s permitted only if it’s directly relevant to the job or required by state or federal law.
- Social Media Privacy Law: Washington law RCW 49.44.200 forbids employers from asking for social media logins, passwords, or requiring you to change privacy settings or add them as contacts.
- Senate Bill 5123: Under this Washington state law, most employers cannot deny employment or terminate workers for off-duty marijuana use. However, exceptions exist for safety-sensitive positions and jobs where drug testing is required by federal or state regulations. Being under the influence while at work is still prohibited.
- Washington’s Seven-Year Rule: RCW 19.182.040 limits how long consumer reporting agencies can include certain records (like bankruptcies or old convictions) on reports for jobs paying under $20,000 per year.
