Definition
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is the federal law that governs consumer reports, including background checks that an outside screening company prepares for an employer. It requires a clear disclosure in a standalone document, the candidate's written authorization before the check, and a two-step notice process before any adverse decision based on the report. It also gives candidates the right to see and dispute what was reported. Many states add their own screening laws on top of the FCRA.
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This definition is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state and change over time.