background check washington guide for employers and individuals

What a Washington screening includes

In Washington, a background review typically pulls court records, Washington State Patrol criminal history via the WATCH system, and identity and employment verification. Certain roles, like childcare or healthcare, may require fingerprint-based checks.

Legal basics and consent

Obtain written permission, follow the federal FCRA, and apply EEOC guidance consistently. State and local rules matter: Washington has ban-the-box limits on early inquiries, and Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance restricts how and when criminal history may be considered.

Step-by-step process

1. Define scope based on the role and lawful need.
2. Get consent with a clear, standalone disclosure.
3. Search records through WSP, county courts, and verified data sources.
4. Evaluate results using job-related criteria.
5. Send pre-adverse and adverse action notices if you might decline.

Accuracy, timing, and fairness

Most state searches return within one to three business days, but county pulls can take longer. Confirm identities to avoid mixed files, document decisions, and give candidates a chance to dispute errors.

What does not appear

• Certain sealed or expunged records
• Arrests older than seven years if used for employment decisions
• Medical and credit data unless job-relevant and permitted