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First Advantage User News

Dear First Advantage Users,

As we learn more about the background screening process and your needs in the counties, we are working to solve problems, offer solutions, and clarify guidance to some of the processes. The updates below address some of the needs we have discovered over the last few months. Please read carefully, and note there are new forms that should be used going forward.

Jennifer Vit, IECA Executive Director, jvit@iastate.edu
Julie Baumler, IECA Executive Assistant, jbaumler@iastate.edu

Background Searches Using Alternate IDs
During our October training, our First Advantage trainer demonstrated an option of conducting searches using a government ID other than Social Security Number. We have looked into this option and have adjusted our forms and guidance to address this.

The new Volunteer Disclosure Form and Employee Disclosure Form asks the candidate if they have a social security number. If they do, they are required to list it. If they do not, in some cases an alternate form of ID issued by the U.S. may be allowable. For potential employees, the individual must have documentation allowing them to be employed in the U.S. (documentation that is acceptable for Form I-9).

Note that a background screen run without using the social security number is not as complete and will return more yellow flags. You'll need to work with your regional directors and/or program area specialists to make determinations in these situations.

New Screening Package Available: ISUEO (No MVR)
We have asked First Advantage to put together a new package that does not include the motor vehicle record (MVR) report. This is only to be used in two situations:

1. When a volunteer does not have a driver’s license.
2. When a volunteer has a current driver’s license from any of the following states:

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Delaware
Kansas
Massachusetts
Michigan
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Utah
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

All volunteers with a driver's license MUST still have a driving record search conducted. This is a requirement of our county insurance coverage for volunteers which extends to them driving to and from extension activities, regardless of whether or not they have passengers. The MVR check is a critical step for our organization's risk management.

The states listed above only allow an MVR search on employees - and not volunteers - through First Advantage or other third-party vendors. In such cases, you will need to access the specific state’s Motor Vehicle department to complete an MVR search. We have summarized these processes in the Volunteer Driving Records Checks Not Covered by First Advantage document.

Counties must not bypass the MVR search in a cost-saving measure, as it is inherent to managing a county’s liability and risk by screening volunteers.

Summary of New Forms and Guidance Documents
Please replace all old forms and documentation that you may have on hand.