Navigating an fbi personal background check can feel daunting, but with a clear path you can complete the process efficiently. In my experience as a writer who builds templates for legal and business use, I have seen readers ask: how to obtain an fbi background check, and what forms are needed. This guide demystifies the FBI Identity History Summary check and provides a free downloadable template to organize your request. By following the steps outlined here, you can prepare a complete submission package and avoid common delays. For general guidance on privacy and records, I also reference resources you can verify on IRS.gov. Not legal advice; consult pro.
What is an FBI personal background check?
When people talk about an FBI personal background check, they’re often referring to the FBI Identity History Summary check. This is an official record that the FBI maintains about an individual’s reported criminal history. In practice, an FBI background check differs from a broad criminal history search performed by some states or private providers. The FBI record is based on fingerprints and identifiers that the National Central Repository for Criminal History uses to locate any matching records across the country. The result is an Identity History Summary that lists entries the FBI found to be associated with you. The content you receive depends on what the FBI has in its files, and it may not reflect every contact with law enforcement. It is also possible for entries to have errors that can be corrected through a formal process. For more on the scope and limitations of these records, consult the FBI’s official guidance on Identity History Summary checks. (IRS.gov)
Identity History Summary: the core of the FBI background check
The Identity History Summary, sometimes called an FBI background check in common parlance, is a federal record derived from fingerprint-based checks. It is used by many employers, licensing boards, and agencies to verify a person’s criminal history record, where permissible. In my practice creating templates for disclosure and compliance, I’ve found that readers often want clarity on what the Summary contains and how to interpret it. In short, the Summary is not a comprehensive portrait of every life event; it is a snapshot of reported criminal history maintained in federal and state records as connected to you. If you receive an entry that you dispute, there is a formal process to request a correction with the FBI. For precise details, see FBI resources on Identity History Summary checks. (IRS.gov)
Who typically needs an FBI background check?
Different circumstances prompt an FBI Identity History Summary check. Common scenarios include:
- Employment or volunteer roles that require federal-level background screening
- Licensing or certification processes where federal or interstate checks are requested
- Adoption or immigration-related applications that inquire about criminal history
- Personal peace-of-mind or compliance for sensitive positions
In my experience building templates for HR, legal compliance, and personal records, readers often ask how to align this process with state and local checks. The FBI check is one piece of the broader background verification landscape. Remember that many employers rely primarily on state or local checks for day-to-day hiring decisions, and an FBI Identity History Summary may be requested in addition to those checks for specific roles or licenses. Always confirm which checks are required by the entity requesting verification. (IRS.gov)
How to obtain an FBI background check: Step-by-step process
Below is a practical, field-tested sequence you can follow. I’ve organized this into the essential actions you’ll likely need to take, including how to obtain the FBI background check and how to prepare for your submission. Use the free downloadable template to capture each requirement and keep you on track.
- Identify your purpose and eligibility. Confirm why you need the FBI Identity History Summary and which agency or organization will receive the report. This helps determine whether you will submit by mail, online, or through a state/federal channel. Some processes may require fingerprints, while others may accommodate electronic submissions.
- Gather identifying information. Prepare your full legal name (and any aliases), date of birth, place of birth, current and prior addresses, Social Security number if requested, and any other identifiers used in government records. Inaccurate or incomplete information can delay or complicate the search.
- Obtain fingerprinting for identification. The Identity History Summary relies on fingerprint data to locate your records. You may need to obtain ink fingerprints on an FD-258 card or use an electronic Live Scan submission if your state allows. The fingerprint submission is typically performed by a local law enforcement agency, a police department, or an authorized fingerprint service provider. If you’ve had fingerprints captured in the past for a government program, check if those records can be reused with your current request.
- Complete the request form. You’ll provide your personal information and identify the purpose of the check. The FBI typically requires a signed Identity History Summary Request form. If you’re doing this via mail, you’ll attach the fingerprint card and a payment method; verify current fees and accepted payment types before mailing.
- Pay the applicable fee. There is a fee to process Identity History Summary requests. Fees can vary and may change over time, so verify the current amount before submitting. Payment methods are often money orders or certified checks when submitting by mail, and online payments may be available for certain channels.
- Submit your request through the appropriate channel. Depending on your location and the chosen method, submit your materials to the FBI CJIS Division or through an approved agency. Online portals may be available for eligible applicants, while mailed submissions go to an FBI request address with the required documents included.
- Track and wait for the result. Processing times vary. Mail-based requests typically take longer (weeks to months) than online submissions if available. If the FBI finds a match, you will receive the Identity History Summary; if no match is found, you will be notified accordingly. In case of discrepancies, there is a formal dispute process to correct or remove erroneous entries.
- Review (and respond to) your results. When you receive the report, review it carefully for accuracy. If you identify an error, follow the FBI’s appeal or correction procedures. If you scored a match to a record that you believe is not yours, you can initiate a dispute with supporting documentation. Some entities may have strict timelines for review and submission of corrected records.
One practical note I’ve learned from coaching readers: keep a clear log of dates, submission methods, and reference numbers. A well-organized file helps you respond quickly if the agency requests additional information or clarifications. This is where the free downloadable template shines: it provides structured sections for your contact details, submission method, document list, and status updates so you don’t miss a required piece of information. (IRS.gov)
What you’ll need to collect and prepare
Before you submit anything, assemble the following items. The exact requirements can vary by channel, but the general set is common across most FBI Identity History Summary requests:
- Full legal name, any alternate names or aliases used, date of birth, place of birth, and current contact details.
- An official fingerprint card (FD-258) or electronic fingerprints, if the channel supports Live Scan.
- A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) or other acceptable identification as directed by the submitting channel.
- If required, include Social Security number or other identifiers for record matching.
- Completed Identity History Summary Request form (or the channel’s equivalent online form).
- The applicable fee via the accepted method (check, money order, or online payment, as directed).
- Documentation supporting name changes, if applicable, or letters clarifying the reason for the request if the channel requires it.
In practice, keeping a checklist makes the process smoother. My template helps you track each item, ensuring nothing is missed during submission. If you’re unsure about any item, check with the agency or organization requesting the check for specific instructions. You’ll often find that different programs require slightly different data fields, but the core elements above tend to stay consistent. (IRS.gov)
Submitting your request: Online vs mail
There are two main pathways to submit an FBI Identity History Summary request: online (if available to you) and by mail. Each has its own advantages and potential limitations.
- Online submission: When an online channel is available, it typically offers faster processing and immediate confirmation of receipt. You’ll upload your information, attach fingerprints (or confirm that they have on file), and pay the fee electronically. An online submission can be more convenient, especially if you’ve already captured electronic fingerprints through a Live Scan process.
- Mail submission: Mailing is the traditional route and is still used in many cases. You’ll mail the Identity History Summary Request form, the fingerprint card, a copy of your identification, and a payment to the FBI. Mailing can take longer due to postal delivery times and handling at the FBI CJIS Division, but it remains a valid option where online access isn’t available or feasible.
Whichever path you choose, following the FBI’s official guidance precisely is important. Ensure you use the correct mailing address if you go by mail and verify the online portal URL if you choose the electronic route. Also remember that you may need to submit fingerprints from a service provider approved for federal checks, and that timelines can vary based on backlogs, government processing times, and the accuracy of the information submitted. (IRS.gov)
Fees, timelines, and potential delays
Fees for Identity History Summary requests are set by the FBI and can change. Expect to pay a processing fee as part of your submission. In addition to the base fee, you might incur costs for fingerprinting services, mailing, or expedited handling—if the channel offers expedited options. Processing timelines vary widely. Some online submissions are returned within days or a couple of weeks, while mail-based requests can take several weeks or longer depending on volume and the complexity of the search. If a record is found, the FBI will send the Identity History Summary to the address you provided or make it available through the online portal, depending on your submission method. If no record is found, you will typically receive notification in the same channel. If there are discrepancies, there is a formal dispute process to correct or remove errors. (IRS.gov)
Discrepancies, corrections, and disputes
Accuracy is essential. If you discover an error in your Identity History Summary, you can request a correction with the FBI. The process typically involves providing documentation that supports the correction, such as police records or court dispositions, and following the FBI’s procedures for disputes. The correction process can take additional time, but it helps ensure the record reflects the correct information tied to your identity. If you’re working through a third-party background-check provider, be prepared to coordinate with them as they interpret and present the results. As with any official record, you should verify the data with the issuing agency once a correction is completed. (IRS.gov)
Template-focused: Free downloadable template to streamline your FBI background check request
To help you stay organized and reduce back-and-forth, I’ve designed a practical, fill-in-the-blank template you can download free. The template guides you through each required field, lists the documents you need to attach, tracks the status of your submission, and prompts you to record dates, reference numbers, and contact details. This is especially helpful when you’re coordinating fingerprints, forms, and payments across multiple agencies or when you need to repeat the process for multiple jurisdictions. Download the free FBI background check request template here:
Download the free FBI background check request template
The template includes sections such as:
- Applicant details (name variations, date of birth, identifiers)
- Submission method (online or mail) and corresponding references
- Fingerprint data (type, card numbers, provider)
- Required documents list and attachment checklist
- Fees and payment method
- Timeline notes and expected receipt date
- Discrepancy/dispute tracking steps
Using a well-structured template reduces the risk of missing information and helps you respond quickly to requests for clarification. It also creates a consistent record you can share with a legal pro or compliance officer if needed. And yes, this approach aligns with best practices for handling sensitive government records, a principle echoed in general privacy and records-management guidance found on IRS.gov. (IRS.gov)
Common questions and practical tips
- Can anyone request an FBI Identity History Summary? In most cases, the request is available to individuals who want to verify their own history. Some channels may also authorize employers or other entities to request a check, but typically the individual must initiate the request and authorize the check for third-party access. Verify with the requesting organization what they require and whether they’ll accept an official FBI summary or prefer a state-level check.
- Will the FBI check show all arrest records? The Identity History Summary reflects information that the FBI has in its files related to an individual. Some states or jurisdictions may maintain separate records that aren’t reflected in the FBI’s Identity History Summary. It’s wise to verify whether the FBI summary alone satisfies a given requirement or if additional state or local checks are also needed. (IRS.gov)
- What if there’s an error on my report? If you believe there is an error, you can initiate a dispute or correction process with the FBI. Provide clear supporting documentation, such as court dispositions or police records, to help support your claim. The process can be time-consuming, but accuracy matters for employment, licensing, and immigration matters. (IRS.gov)
- How long does it take? Timelines vary. Online submissions tend to be faster than mailed requests, but processing times depend on volume and the complexity of the records. Plan ahead and apply well before any deadlines. If you have a tight timeline, consider whether the entity requesting the check offers expedited options and what those entail.
- Are there privacy or security concerns? Any time you request official records that contain sensitive personal data, it’s important to safeguard your information. Only use official government channels or trusted providers, and verify the destination where the report will be released. The privacy and data-security considerations for government records are outlined in federal guidance—visible on IRS.gov and related government sites. (IRS.gov)
Disclaimers, caveats, and best practices
Not legal advice; consult pro. This article reflects practical experience and a templated approach to organizing an FBI background check request for individuals and professionals. Laws, procedures, and fees can change, and differences may exist between online and mail submissions or between jurisdictions. Always verify current requirements with the relevant agency (FBI CJIS Division) and the organization requesting the background check. The goal of the free downloadable template is to improve accuracy, reduce errors, and help you stay on schedule as you navigate the process. (IRS.gov)
Summary of key points
- The FBI Identity History Summary is a federal background check based on fingerprint data.
- Submission options include online (where available) and mail; choose the method that matches your circumstances.
- Gather all required identity information, fingerprints, and payment before submitting.
- Expect varying processing times and potential delays; use the template to stay organized.
- Review results carefully and pursue corrections if needed through the official dispute process.
Next steps
If you’re planning to request an FBI Identity History Summary, start by collecting your identifying information and fingerprints, then decide on online or mail submission. Open the downloadable template to begin organizing your documents and timelines. If you’re unsure about the requirements for your specific situation, contact the requesting entity to confirm their exact expectations and any additional steps they require.
Resources and where to verify information
For official guidance on Identity History Summary checks, you should consult the FBI’s own materials andCJIS resources. As a reference alongside federal guidance, you can review general information on privacy and records handling at IRS.gov. While IRS.gov is not the primary source for FBI background checks, it provides context on how government records and privacy considerations are approached in federal interactions, which can help you navigate related processes. (IRS.gov)
Sources
- IRS.gov — General privacy and records guidance referenced in this article.