Why Checkmate

Why Checkmate

Overview

See how Checkmate helps streamline hiring and compliance.

Our Partners

Meet the organizations we work.

Our Customers

See how businesses use Checkmate.

Featured Customers

From Hours to Minutes

Woolworths New Zealand's Strategy for 24-Hour Savings in Candidate Experience

Read more
Building a Safer Workforce

Fletcher Building's Partnership with Checkmate

Read more
See all customer stories
Product

Product

Reference Checking

Verify candidate experience quickly

Pre-employment Screening

Ensure safe and compliant hiring.

Ongoing Workforce Compliance

Monitor ongoing workforce risk

Featured from Resource Centre

Why is reference checking so important?

Verifying past work to make better hiring decisions.

Read more
Why is pre-employment screening so important?

Ensuring workplace safety and compliance.

Read more
See all articles
Resources

Resources

Events

Stay updated on upcoming industry events.

Blog

Insights, updates, and expert tips.

ROI Calculator

Estimate your hiring cost savings.

HR Glossary

Key HR terms and definitions.

Downloads

Get helpful Checkmate resources.

Company

About Us

Learn who we are and what we stand for.

Partner With Us

Join leading businesses using Checkmate to grow smarter.

Featured Resources

From Hours to Minutes

Woolworths New Zealand's Strategy for 24-Hour Savings in Candidate Experience

Read more
Building a Safer Workforce

Fletcher Building's Partnership with Checkmate

Read more
See all customer stories
Contact

Sales

Contact Sales

Our team is here to transform your hiring process.

Book a Demo

Find a time that suits your schedule and our team will show you what we offer.

Product

Contact Support

Need help with your platform? Our support team is ready to assist!

Book a demo
Login
Talk to Sales
Arrow pointing right

Service Descriptions

Social Security Trace

This service uses investigative databases to identify prior names and addresses associated with a candidate's Social Security number, including checks against the Death Master Index. The results help determine where additional criminal record searches may be needed and can reveal alias names not disclosed on an application. Because this is a database tool and not sourced directly from government agencies, data may be incomplete or contain inaccuracies. For this reason, the trace is used strictly as a locator tool and not as part of the reportable consumer report.

Multi-jurisdictional Database Search

This search compiles criminal record data from thousands of jurisdictions which may include state departments of corrections, parole boards, and other public sources. It is used as a broad-screening tool to identify potential criminal history in areas where a candidate may not have lived. Possible records, based on file date or arrest date (whichever is more recent), are then verified through a county level search to ensure accuracy and compliance before reporting. Additional criminal searches may be performed based on alias names discovered during the process.

Multi-jurisdictional Database (with Alias) Search

This search compiles criminal record data from thousands of jurisdictions which may include state departments of corrections, parole boards, and other public sources. It is used as a broad-screening tool to identify potential criminal history in areas where a candidate may not have lived. Possible records, based on file date or arrest date (whichever is more recent), are then verified through a county level search to ensure accuracy and compliance before reporting. Additional criminal searches may be performed based on alias names discovered during the process.

National Sex Offender Registry Search

This search reviews the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) and identifies whether an individual appears on sex offender registries (SORs) by comparing name and date of birth information across available registries. When identifiers are incomplete, additional steps may be taken to ensure accurate matching before reporting. Records meeting appropriate identity matching criteria are reported. Registry reporting completeness may vary by state.

Basic Sanctions and Exclusions Check (OFAC, SAM, GSA)

This search reviews U.S. sanction and federal exclusion lists. It offers broad screening across multiple risk areas and returns listed findings. Only results meeting appropriate identity matching criteria are reported.

Social Media Check

This service provides a comprehensive review of an individual's publicly available social media presence to help identify potential risks related to workplace conduct, safety, and cultural alignment. Using advanced technology, the screening evaluates posts, images, and online interactions for behavioral indicators such as hostile or discriminatory language, illegal activity, or other concerning patterns. The analysis focuses only on publicly accessible content and is designed to flag material that may warrant further review. This process supports responsible decisions while maintaining compliance with applicable legal and regulatory guidelines, including FCRA, EEOC, and GDPR standards.

County Criminal Check

This search reviews the predominately used index within a specified county for criminal records associated with an individual. These records include felonies and misdemeanors, with available details such as case number, charges, disposition, and sentencing information. Results vary by jurisdiction as not all counties maintain a centralized or digitized index. Turnaround time depends on the county's reporting method (online database, clerk's office, or court runner) and can range from 1 to 5+ business days.

International Criminal Check

This search reviews country-specific criminal record repositories to identify criminal history associated with an individual in jurisdictions outside the United States. Available records, search methods, and data coverage vary significantly by country due to differences in legal systems, data privacy laws, and record-keeping practices. Turnaround times range from a few business days to several weeks depending on the country. Some jurisdictions may require candidate consent, notarization, or direct requests to government agencies.

Federal Criminal Check

This search reviews federal court records across U.S. federal district courts to identify criminal cases filed at the federal level. These cases often include white-collar crimes, fraud, embezzlement, drug trafficking, tax evasion, identity theft, and other offenses prosecuted under federal law. Results may include case numbers, charges, disposition, and sentencing details. Federal criminal searches are conducted by district and may require specific jurisdictional selection.

Statewide Criminal Check

This search reviews criminal record information available from multiple counties within a state through a centralized state repository or administrative office of the courts. Coverage and data quality vary by state, as some maintain comprehensive statewide databases while others offer limited or delayed records. Results may include felonies and misdemeanors with case details such as charges, disposition, and sentencing. Statewide searches are often used to supplement county-level searches for broader coverage.

County Civil Search

This search identifies civil filings generally related to disputes involving monetary claims, contract disagreements, landlord/tenant issues, personal injury, and other non-criminal matters. Records are searched at the county level through the relevant court index. Available details may include party names, case type, filing date, and case status. Civil searches are commonly used in screening for roles involving financial responsibility or fiduciary duties. Turnaround time varies by jurisdiction.

Global Watch List Check

A global watchlist search reviews a wide range of domestic and international databases to identify individuals or entities flagged for regulatory, legal, or security concerns. Sources typically include government sanctions lists (e.g., OFAC, UN, EU), law enforcement watchlists, most wanted databases, Politically Exposed Persons (PEP) lists, and other global regulatory and compliance databases. This search helps organizations assess potential risk related to terrorism, fraud, money laundering, and other prohibited activities.

Education Verification

This service verifies a candidate's highest completed level of education by contacting the institution or its designated clearinghouse. Information typically confirmed includes degree or diploma earned, field of study, dates of attendance, and graduation date. Results help employers validate the educational qualifications listed on a resume or application. Turnaround time varies based on the institution's responsiveness and verification method.

Employment Verification

Employment verifications confirm work history details provided by a candidate, typically including job title, dates of employment, and reason for leaving (where available). Verification is conducted by contacting former employers directly or through third-party verification services such as The Work Number. This service helps employers ensure accuracy of a candidate's professional history. Turnaround time depends on employer responsiveness and verification method.

Employment Verification (International)

Country-specific employment verifications which validate work history details for positions held outside the United States. The process and available information vary by country due to differences in labor laws, employer practices, and data privacy regulations. Typical details confirmed include job title, dates of employment, and employer name. Turnaround times may be longer than domestic verifications due to international communication requirements and varying employer responsiveness.

Education Verification (International)

Country-specific education verifications which validate academic credentials earned outside the United States. The process and available information vary by country due to differences in educational systems, institutional practices, and data privacy regulations. Typical details confirmed include degree or diploma earned, field of study, and dates of attendance. Turnaround times may be longer than domestic verifications due to international communication requirements and varying institutional responsiveness.

Professional License Verification

[DESCRIPTION NEEDED]

International Criminal Checks

This search reviews country-specific criminal record repositories to identify criminal history associated with an individual in jurisdictions outside the United States. Available records, search methods, and data coverage vary significantly by country due to differences in legal systems, data privacy laws, and record-keeping practices. Turnaround times range from a few business days to several weeks depending on the country. Some jurisdictions may require candidate consent, notarization, or direct requests to government agencies.

International Background Checks

Country-specific background screening services that may include criminal record checks, employment and education verifications, identity verification, and other searches tailored to local regulations and available data sources. These services are designed for candidates with history outside the United States and are adapted to the legal and procedural requirements of each country. Turnaround times, available information, and processes vary by jurisdiction.

Motor Vehicle Record Check (MVR)

This report pulls driving history from state motor vehicle agencies (DMVs) and includes information such as license status, class, endorsements, restrictions, violations, suspensions, and accidents. MVR checks are commonly used for roles that involve driving as part of the job or that require a valid driver's license. Results are state-specific and turnaround time is typically fast, often within one business day.

Reference Checks (Digital)

[DESCRIPTION NEEDED - USE CHECKMATE'S DESCRIPTION]

Urine Drug Testing

Urine drug testing is a laboratory-based screening method used to detect the presence of controlled substances or their metabolites in a candidate's system. Common panels include 5-panel, 10-panel, and expanded options that screen for substances such as marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP, among others. Testing is conducted at certified collection sites and analyzed by SAMHSA-certified laboratories. Results are reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO) before being reported.

Occupational Health Testing (Physicals, Shots)

Occupational health testing includes a range of medical evaluations and services required for workplace compliance and employee fitness-for-duty. Services may include pre-employment physicals, DOT physicals, respirator fit testing, audiometric exams, vision screenings, vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis B, flu shots, TB testing), and other role-specific medical assessments. Testing is conducted at approved clinics or on-site as needed and results are reported in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.

Health Sanctions Check (Level 1)

This screening reviews major federal and select state healthcare exclusion and sanctions databases to determine whether an individual has been excluded from participation in federally funded healthcare programs. Key sources include the OIG List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE), the SAM (System for Award Management) database, and select state Medicaid exclusion lists. This check is commonly required for healthcare workers, caregivers, and roles involving access to federal healthcare funding.

Health Sanctions Check (Level 3)

This screening expands on Level 1 by including disciplinary actions, board sanctions, and additional regulatory databases beyond the core federal exclusion lists. Sources may include state licensing board actions, FDA debarment lists, DEA registrant lists, and other healthcare-specific compliance databases. Level 3 provides a more comprehensive view of a candidate's standing within the healthcare regulatory landscape and is recommended for clinical, licensed, and high-trust healthcare roles.

Hire Smarter. Faster.
With Less Effort.

Let’s take the stress out of screening. Want a quick walkthrough? We’d love to show you around.

Get in touch
Talk to Sales
Arrow pointing right
© 2025 Checkmate. All Rights Reserved. View our policies
HomeReference CheckingPre-employment ScreeningSafeguard Continuous MonitoringAbout UsEventsOur PartnersMeet Our CustomersResource CentreDownloadsHR GlossaryROI CalculatorContact SalesContact SupportBook a DemoLog InHuman Trafficking SurvivorsLinkedIn