So You Wanna Be Pennsylvania's Most Checked-Out Cat? Your Guide to Background Checks
Living in the Keystone State and need a background check? Don't worry, it's not about the embarrassing time you tried (and failed) to parallel park a horse-drawn carriage in Amish country. Background checks are just a normal part of life, like scrapple for breakfast and yelling at tourists who block the Liberty Bell photo op.
This guide will walk you through the process, Pennsylvania style (think informative with a hint of haluski).
First Things First: What Kind of Check Are You Lookin' For?
There are two main types of background checks in Pennsylvania:
- Criminal History Background Check: This is your basic "have you done anything naughty?" check. It looks for things like arrests, convictions, and maybe even that time you borrowed Uncle Tony's lawn gnome for a "borrowing" competition (hopefully you returned it!).
- Child Abuse History Clearance: This one's important for anyone working or volunteering with kids. It checks the Pennsylvania Child Abuse Registry to make sure you're not on Santa's naughty list (the not-so-jolly kind).
Alright, Alright, Alright. How Do I Get This Background Check Done?
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There are two main ways to get a background check in Pennsylvania:
- Online: This is the quicker and easier option, perfect for those who are impatient and/or have questionable penmanship. Head over to the Pennsylvania State Police PATCH system (because honestly, who doesn't love a good acronym?). You'll need to create an account and fill out some info, but it's a pretty straightforward process.
- By Mail: For those who prefer a more snail-paced approach (or maybe just have a serious case of internet aversion), you can download a paper application and mail it in with a money order. Just remember, patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to the postal service.
Pro Tip: Whichever method you choose, be sure to double-check all your information before submitting it. Nobody wants their background check to get delayed because they accidentally wrote down their grandma's address instead of their own.
How Long Does This Background Check Thing Take?
Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Processing times can vary depending on the type of check and how backed up the system is. Online checks are generally faster, but even those can take a few weeks. Paper applications can take even longer. So, the best advice? Plan ahead and don't wait until the last minute to get your background check done.
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
Phew! I Finally Got My Background Check. Now What?
Once your background check is complete, you'll receive a report with your results. The report will be sent to the requesting party (like your employer or volunteer organization). You won't necessarily get a copy yourself, but you can always request one if needed.
Bonus Round: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Background Check Curious
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How to Get a Criminal History Background Check in Pennsylvania?
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Head over to the Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) website or mail in a completed application form.
How to Get a Child Abuse History Clearance in Pennsylvania?
You'll need to apply through the PA Child Abuse History Clearance system (https://www.dhs.pa.gov/KeepKidsSafe/Pages/default.aspx).
How Long Does a Background Check Take in Pennsylvania?
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Processing times can vary, but online checks are generally faster than paper applications.
How Much Does a Background Check Cost in Pennsylvania?
There are fees associated with background checks, so be sure to check the PATCH website or application form for current pricing.
Can I Get a Copy of My Background Check Report?
You may not automatically receive a copy, but you can usually request one from the Pennsylvania State Police.
So there you have it! With this guide, you'll be a background check pro in no time. Now go forth and conquer the Keystone State, one check at a time!
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