Many employers want to consider a job candidate’s military records as a component of the overall pre-employment screening and background checking process. However, how much information are employers able to actually see while looking up a job candidate’s military service records?
In the latest blog post from Barada Associates, we’ll discuss if employers can look up military records, what information is allowed to be shared with employers, and how a veteran’s pre-employment screening might be different from another job candidate’s.
Can You Look Up a Job Candidate’s Military Records?
Military personnel records are generally private and are not considered public information. If they choose to do so, a veteran can keep their information private. However, because a veteran’s military service can be a large percentage of their overall employment history, many employers will look to verify any military experience that is listed on a candidate’s resume.
If an employer considers obtaining a candidate’s military experience and records as a vital part of the hiring process, they’ll first need permission from the job candidate. This often comes in the form of a release document that must be signed by the candidate, in addition to a release document consenting to an overall background check.
In order to look up a job candidate’s official military personnel files, you must have their consent. Even after receiving access to military records, however, there are limitations as to what information should be requested by employers. For example, you should not ask a job candidate to reveal the reason behind their discharge.
What Information Can Be Shared With Employers?
If a job candidate consents to an employer looking up their military records, they’ll likely receive the candidate’s DD-214. This is a report that includes the beginning and ending dates of the candidate’s military service. A DD-214 also includes information such as the candidate’s military rank, any awards, recognitions, or badges, and other information.
DD-214 reports will also provide the candidate’s discharge type. While the type of discharge can be viewed by an employer, the employer should not ask the candidate to provide a reason as to why they were discharged from the military during the hiring process.
Other Information Discovered During a Background Check
Outside of obtaining military records of the job candidate, a background check for a military veteran should be the same as any other job candidate. Depending on the job at hand, employers might perform drug and alcohol testing, academic verification, cognitive and professional skills assessments, and more.
Keeping background checks of veterans consistent with background checks of other applicants is important in ensuring that all candidates are treated equally.
Contact Barada Associates for Background Checks
Barada Associates is proud to offer reliable and high-quality background checks that contain all of the information that you need in order to make the best hiring decision for your company. Avoid making a bad hire, as well as the costs associated with doing so, by contacting Barada Associates for pre-employment background checks.