Background checks requested by mail can take as long as a month to process and return, but the WebCheck program allows agencies to electronically submit civilian background checks to BCI, saving everyone valuable time and providing results usually within a matter of days. (Complicated cases can take up to 30 days.)
WebCheck locations are available throughout the state, including at about 100 deputy registrar locations. To initiate a background check, search for a WebCheck location near you on this webpage.
If you have questions, call the Civilian Background Unit between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 877-224-0043 (toll-free).
The Rapback Program provides continuous safeguards against newly convicted criminals remaining in positions of trust, such as school teachers or foster parents.
Regular background checks provide a “snapshot” of a person’s criminal history, in that they reveal whether the person has a criminal record right when the check is completed. The Rapback Program aims to solve that by, after an initial background check, constantly monitoring for matches to criminal records. If fingerprints from a newly logged criminal record are found to belong to someone enrolled in the Rapback Program, the employer/subscriber is notified.
For more information or to see if your agency is able to enroll, visit this webpage.
If your Social Security number is showing up on another person’s criminal records within Ohio, BCI can help correct the problem in its own records. Depending on the circumstances, the process may (or may not) require submitting fingerprints. It is recommended to call the Identification Division at 855-BCI-OHIO (855-224-6446) to learn how to begin the process. You will be guided to either:
- Go to your local sheriff’s office or police department and request to have your fingerprints manually rolled with ink. (Call ahead first; some departments only conduct electronic fingerprinting.) On the card with your fingerprints, fill out your name, date of birth and Social Security number in the appropriate fields and write “SSN MISUSE” on the front of the card. Mail it to:
BCI, P.O. Box 365
London, OH 43140
Attn: Identification Criminal Unit
- Send a request asking BCI to remove your Social Security number from the person’s record who is misusing it. Include your name, date of birth and Social Security number. Fax it to 740-845-2633 or mail it to:
BCI, P.O. Box 365
London, OH 43140
Attn: Identification Criminal Unit
If you would like someone to contact you with an update after receipt of the fingerprint card, indicate that on the card and include your phone number, or write the information on a note and place it in the envelope with the fingerprint card.
More information can be found on this webpage, and if you are outside of Ohio, visit this webpage for advice on how to proceed.