Washington Background Check – Laws, Process & How to Get One

Need help understanding the complexities of conducting a background check in Washington? The process can be intricate, requiring detailed knowledge of state-specific regulations, and we are here to guide you through every step.

Our goal is to make background checks in Washington easier by offering a clear, comprehensive overview and spotlighting the most reliable service providers. Although public records are technically accessible, tracking down the right information often feels like navigating a maze of scattered documents.

That is where our trusted background check services come in, providing a dependable and efficient way to access accurate information quickly and with confidence.

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7 Best Background Check Services 

• BeenVerified – Best for Background Check in Washington Overall  
• PeopleLooker – Best for Quick & Detailed Results 
• TruthFinder – Highest Relative Cost-Effectiveness
• Intelius –The Most Precise Option
• Instant Checkmate – The Quickest Option
• Spokeo – The Finest in Washington Reverse Email Lookup
• US Search – Optimal for Use with APIs

What Is a Background Check?

In Washington, conducting a background check involves reviewing public records at both the state and federal levels to gather information about an individual. By using key identifiers such as a name, phone number, or email address, one can access a broad range of public data to create a detailed personal profile.

Background checks in Washington can reveal various types of information, including personal details, employment and education history, familial connections, residential addresses, criminal and traffic records, court documents, entries in the sex offender registry, social media presence, and property ownership records.

This list may not include all possible findings. A more thorough search of public records can uncover additional information.

Manually searching public records in Washington may provide only limited results. To obtain more complete and reliable background information, it's recommended to use professional background check services that focus on Washington-specific records.

These services use identifying information to perform comprehensive searches across multiple public record databases. The collected data is then organized into a clear and easy-to-read background report.

Background check reports in Washington typically include a standardized collection of information that provides a complete and accurate overview of an individual's background.

• Aliases
• Employment history
• Weapons permits
• Photographs
• Educational background
• Social media profiles
• Financial assets
• Criminal and arrest records
• Professional licenses
• Age and date of birth
• Civil court records
• Full name

By using professional background check services in Washington, individuals can obtain detailed and up-to-date information, allowing them to make informed decisions in various situations.

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How to Run a Background Check?

There are two main ways to perform a free background check in Washington. The more involved method requires contacting various public offices directly and requesting access to public records. Once obtained, you'll need to carefully review the documents to extract the relevant information.

A simpler alternative is to use people search platforms like BeenVerified, PeopleLooker, or TruthFinder. These services make the process easier by letting users search using a person's name, city, or phone number.

You can also use reverse email lookup tools to identify individuals through their email addresses. Even minimal details can trigger a deep search through the service's extensive database.

Although the search may take a few minutes, a longer wait often indicates that the service is retrieving a larger volume of accurate and detailed information.

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How Can I Access Public Records?

To obtain public records in Washington, begin by identifying the government agency responsible for the records you want. Many records can be accessed directly through the agency’s site.

If the records are not available online, you will need to send a written request to the agency’s public records officer. Your request should include your contact information and a detailed description of the specific records you seek.

Be aware that agencies may charge fees for copying documents or the time required to locate them. After submitting your request, you can expect a response within five business days. The agency may grant your request, deny it, or ask for more information.

If your request is approved, you can either review the records at the agency’s office or receive copies. If your request is denied and you feel the denial is unwarranted, you have the right to appeal the decision, and consulting a lawyer can be beneficial.

Keep in mind that some information may be exempt from release due to privacy or legal reasons. Familiarizing yourself with the Washington State Public Records Act will help you handle the process more effectively.

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Background Check Laws 

Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law designed to protect individuals’ privacy regarding their personal information that consumer reporting agencies (CRAs) collect, store, and share. This law also sets guidelines for employers who conduct background checks.

Employers are required to notify job applicants and employees in writing about their intention to perform background checks and must obtain their explicit written consent beforehand.

If an employer decides against hiring someone based on a background check report, the FCRA mandates a two-step adverse action process that must be followed before finalizing the hiring decision.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating against applicants and employees based on protected traits. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission oversees the enforcement of this law.

Employers may review an applicant’s criminal and traffic history during background checks under Title VII. Before disqualifying a candidate solely because of a conviction, it’s important to evaluate whether that conviction is directly related to the job’s duties and requirements.

Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act

The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act (FCA) is a federal law that promotes fair hiring practices. It was passed as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for the 2019 fiscal year and was signed into law by former President Donald Trump.

The FCA applies to federal agencies and businesses pursuing contracts with the federal government.

Under this law, companies seeking to contract with federal agencies cannot ask about an applicant’s criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made during the hiring process.

Additionally, any company found violating the FCA is barred from entering into contracts with federal agencies.

Vacating Certain Criminal Convictions

Washington’s expungement law applies only to non-conviction records. Individuals with certain convictions may petition the court to have those convictions vacated, provided they meet the conditions specified in RCW 9.94A.640. The law permits the vacation of select misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and felonies.

It's important to note that some convictions are ineligible for vacation under specific circumstances:

• Convictions for driving under the influence
• Violent offenses
• Crimes committed against individuals
• Sexual offenses
• Class B felony convictions within the past ten years
• Class C felony convictions within the past five years
• Any conviction that coincides with an active criminal case
• Class B felony convictions occurring within a ten-year period
• Class C felony convictions occurring within a five-year period

People who fulfill the criteria may petition the court to have their convictions vacated. If the petition is granted, the guilty plea will be withdrawn, and the conviction will be erased.

After a conviction has been successfully vacated, the individual has the legal right to deny having been convicted of that crime. Additionally, vacated offenses are excluded from criminal background checks conducted for employment purposes.

Salary History Questions Prohibited

According to RCW 49.58.100, employers are prohibited from asking candidates or their previous employers for salary history information. If an applicant voluntarily provides their salary history, employers are allowed to verify the accuracy of that information with former employers.

Additionally, employers may request salary history only after making a job offer that includes compensation details. Employees have the right to pursue legal action if an employer violates Washington’s rules against requesting salary history information.

Statewide Ban-the-Box Law

Under RCW 49.94.010, Washington state has enacted a ban-the-box law that applies to both public and private employers. This law forbids employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal convictions on job applications.

According to this statute, employers may conduct criminal background checks and consider any findings only after confirming that the applicant meets the necessary qualifications.

Seattle Fair Chance Employment Law

In 2013, Seattle introduced its own ban-the-box legislation. This law prevents public and private employers from asking about or factoring in an individual’s criminal history until after the candidate has passed an initial screening and demonstrated their qualifications.

Use of Arrest Information

The Washington Human Rights Commission advises that employers should not use arrest records without convictions when making hiring decisions.  Arrests that lead to convictions or pending criminal charges may be taken into account.

Credit Reports for Employment Restricted

According to RCW 19.182.020, employers are generally not allowed to request credit reports from job applicants unless specific conditions apply:

• The credit report is essential and relevant to the requirements of the position.
• A state or federal law mandates that the employer obtain the credit report.

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Social Media Law

Under RCW 49.44.200, employers are prohibited from requesting, pressuring, or requiring job applicants or employees to share their social media login credentials.

They also cannot ask individuals to access their social media accounts in the employer's presence, add the employer as a contact, or alter their privacy settings to allow the employer to view their content.

If there are allegations regarding an employee’s social media activity and an investigation is warranted, the employer may request access to relevant information.

Senate Bill 5123

Governor Jay Inslee has signed Senate Bill 5123 into law, marking a significant step toward ending employment discrimination based on off-duty marijuana use.

The law prohibits employers from denying job applicants employment solely because they test positive for non-psychoactive marijuana metabolites during a pre-employment drug test.

It does not prevent employers from taking disciplinary action if an employee is under the influence of marijuana while at work or uses it during working hours.

In cases where marijuana use affects job performance or violates company policy, employers can still respond appropriately. Importantly, the new law still allows pre-employment drug testing for the psychoactive components of marijuana—substances that impair cognition and alertness—so long as the testing targets only those active compounds.

Washington State’s Seven-Year Rule

In Washington State, RCW 19.182.040 sets a seven-year reporting limit for certain information provided by consumer reporting agencies (CRAs). This restriction specifically applies to positions with an annual salary of less than $20,000.

• Bankruptcies (10 years)
• Civil lawsuits and judgments
• Paid tax liens
• Debt collection accounts
• Non-conviction arrests and indictments
• Convictions

To fully understand the importance of Washington’s seven-year rule, it’s essential to compare it with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) standard. While Washington imposes a salary threshold of $20,000, the FCRA sets a higher threshold at $75,000.

Under the FCRA, if an applicant earns less than $75,000, consumer reporting agencies (CRAs) are barred from disclosing information older than seven years related to bankruptcies, civil lawsuits or judgments, paid tax liens, collection accounts, or arrest records that didn’t lead to a conviction.

In contrast, Washington law prohibits the reporting of conviction records that are more than seven years old, regardless of salary or job type. If an applicant in Washington earns $20,000 or more, conviction records older than seven years may still be reported, irrespective of the specific employment role.

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What Can You Find?

It might be surprising, but running a free background check in Washington can reveal a wealth of information about a person. Using reliable people search services such as BeenVerified or TruthFinder, individuals can access comprehensive reports containing a wide range of personal details.

Personal Information

To accurately identify an individual, every background check report in Washington includes personal details such as their full name, age, date of birth, any known aliases, and available photographs.

Employment and Educational Background

Understanding an individual’s background requires gathering information about their academic and professional history, such as the schools they attended and the organizations they have worked for.

It's important to note that in Washington, such details can only be used to evaluate prospective employees or tenants if the background check service adheres to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Potential Relatives and Associates

This section offers insight into the individual’s social and professional connections. It identifies people they may be associated with, providing a broader view of their personal and occupational networks.

Washington Contact Details

Washington background checks can also include contact details such as phone numbers and email addresses. This information is especially valuable for lead generation and outreach purposes.

Criminal and Traffic Records in Washington

An essential part of a Washington background check includes criminal and arrest records, which are available from public sources like police departments and court systems. These records detail offenses, including the type of crime, date, location, case number, and the court involved. A thorough review of this section is vital when conducting a free background check.

Property Information in Washington

This section is useful for understanding a person’s financial status. It includes information about property ownership, tax records, sale history, land valuation, mortgages, vehicle ownership, VIN numbers, and more.

Online Presence

Here, you can find references to the individual on the internet. This may include social media profiles, blog posts, articles, sites, or other digital footprints discovered through online searches.

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How Long Does a Background Check Take?

The duration of a background check in Washington varies based on the method used. Reliable people search platforms such as BeenVerified or TruthFinder can deliver a detailed background report within minutes, offering a fast and thorough option.

In contrast, choosing a manual background check may extend the process by an additional 1 to 3 business days.

7 Best Services for Background Check

The duration of a background check in Washington varies based on the method selected. Using reliable people search services such as BeenVerified or TruthFinder can deliver an individual background check report within minutes, providing a fast and thorough outcome. In contrast, conducting a manual background check in Washington may extend the timeframe by an extra 1 to 3 business days.

BeenVerified –  Best for Background Check in Washington Overall

BeenVerified is a popular platform known for its exceptional background check services in Washington. It provides a wide variety of search options, including access to Washington court and public records, making it a highly comprehensive tool.

With access to billions of public records specific to Washington, BeenVerified delivers accurate and trustworthy reports by utilizing dependable data sources.

A key benefit of BeenVerified is its intuitive and easy-to-use interface, enabling users to conduct searches quickly and effortlessly. The straightforward design, along with clear guidance on interpreting reports, enhances the overall user experience.

In summary, BeenVerified offers a thorough look into an individual’s history through its detailed approach and commitment to accuracy by relying on reliable Washington-specific data sources.

BeenVerified also provides budget-friendly pricing plans tailored to Washington users, including flexible options like monthly subscriptions and pay-per-search services, making it accessible to both individuals and organizations.

If you have any questions or face challenges while using BeenVerified for background checks in Washington, their knowledgeable customer support team is readily available to assist. They are equipped to help you navigate the platform and understand the details in the reports.

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PeopleLooker –  Best for Quick & Detailed Results

For residents of Washington seeking reliable and detailed background check services, PeopleLooker stands out as a leading platform for obtaining comprehensive information.

This service allows Washington locals and nearby communities to access public records on individuals, providing valuable details such as arrest histories and contact information. It is particularly useful for those looking to perform background checks within Washington.

PeopleLooker highlights its extensive access to various public records specific to Washington, including criminal records, traffic violations, court documents, and more.

The background check data offered by PeopleLooker tends to be more thorough compared to other services available in Washington.

The platform also prioritizes ease of use, ensuring that even users with little experience can navigate the background check process effortlessly. This accessibility makes PeopleLooker an essential resource for anyone conducting background checks in Washington.

Additionally, user feedback indicates that PeopleLooker provides affordable pricing plans, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious individuals in Washington. This competitive pricing further establishes PeopleLooker as a top choice in the background check market.

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TruthFinder – Best for Value

When performing a background check in Washington, TruthFinder is the top choice. This platform features an intuitive interface that makes searching quick and easy, allowing users to conduct inquiries using various identifiers such as names, phone numbers, or mailing addresses.

By tapping into Washington’s extensive public records, TruthFinder delivers thorough and dependable information about individuals. What distinguishes TruthFinder is its use of deep web monitoring tools, granting access to exclusive data not available through other services.

TruthFinder’s monthly subscription costs $28.05 in Washington. For greater savings, users can opt for a two-month plan priced at $46.56 total, which breaks down to $23.28 per month, offering enhanced value for those needing background check services in the state.

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DISCLAIMER: You may not use TruthFinder or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

Intelius – Best for Reliability

Intelius, headquartered in Washington, offers a level of proficiency in background checks that rivals TruthFinder.

This global people search tool is notable for its highly relevant and detailed results. Like TruthFinder, Intelius draws from an extensive database of public records and documents to provide thorough information on individuals residing in Washington.

Priced at $24.86 per month or $21.13 per month when billed every two months ($42.25 total), Intelius delivers services similar to TruthFinder but lacks the deep web monitoring feature available on the latter. Consequently, Intelius is offered at a significantly more affordable rate compared to TruthFinder.

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DISCLAIMER: You may not use Intelius or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Intelius does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

Instant Checkmate – Best for Speed

Instant Checkmate is a top choice for those needing a fast background check in Washington. Its standout features include a user-friendly interface and the convenience of a mobile app, something many other background check services in the state lack.

The service pulls from a wide range of public records to deliver accurate and reliable background information. It comes at a higher cost, with basic plans starting at $35.12 per month.

Although there's no two-month subscription, a three-month plan is available at $28.09 per month, billed as a one-time payment of $84.28. In addition to quick turnaround times, Instant Checkmate is committed to protecting your personal data through strong security practices.

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DISCLAIMER: You may not use Instant Checkmate or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Instant Checkmate is not a consumer reporting agency and does not provide consumer reports. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

Spokeo – Best for Reverse Email Lookup

If you're in Washington and need to find information about someone using their email address, a reverse email lookup service can be a helpful resource. For Washington residents looking for effective tools for lead generation or company research, Spokeo stands out as a strong option, offering reliable background checks via email searches.

Although several services offer background checks in Washington, Spokeo provides a more comprehensive solution. With a monthly subscription of just $19.95, it offers a more affordable option compared to many similar platforms.

For even greater savings, you can choose a three-month plan at a discounted rate of $14.95 per month, billed as $44.85. This makes Spokeo a cost-effective alternative for users throughout Washington state.

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US Search – Best for API Integration

In Washington, background checks can be easily conducted using the user-friendly Quick Start Guide from US Search. For users needing multiple searches or extended access, an affordable monthly plan is available for just $59, making US Search a cost-effective choice.

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DISCLAIMER: You may not use US Search or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. US Search does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

What Does the Washington Public Records Law Say?

The Washington Public Records Act, outlined in Chapter 42.56 of the Revised Code of Washington, provides individuals with the right to access records held by government agencies.

This law requires state and local agencies to make public records available upon request, except in cases where the information is protected, such as matters involving personal privacy, law enforcement activities, or attorney-client privilege.

The Act's main purpose is to promote government transparency and accountability by giving citizens the ability to review how their government operates.

To obtain public records, you can submit a request directly to the agency that holds them. Agencies are required to respond promptly and release any records that are not exempt under the law.

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Criminal and Traffic Records 

In Washington, individuals have the ability to access their Criminal and Traffic Records, which offer detailed insights into their criminal history and driving record.

These records include a wide range of information such as arrests, convictions, court proceedings, traffic violations, and other relevant details. While the exact content may vary from case to case, these records generally provide a thorough overview for those seeking this information.

• Personal Information: This section includes key identifying details such as the individual’s full name, date of birth, current address, and other relevant identifiers.
• Criminal & Traffic History: Contains information on arrests, criminal charges, and convictions, along with details about each offense, dates of incidents, and related court information.
• Traffic Offences: Lists traffic-related offenses, citations issued, fines imposed, and any driving infractions.
• Court Proceedings: Offers information about legal processes, including court dates, trial outcomes, and sentencing.
• Warrants and Arrest Records: Includes records of any outstanding warrants or previous arrests linked to the individual.
• Probation and Parole: If applicable, this section outlines the individual’s probation or parole status and related conditions.

Where Can I Find Criminal and Traffic Records?

To access criminal and traffic records in Washington State, follow these steps:

• Washington State Patrol (WSP): The WSP is the primary agency responsible for managing criminal history information in Washington. You can request records through their Identification and Criminal History Section, either online or by visiting their office in person.
• Washington Courts: Some court-related records are available through the Washington Courts system. These can be accessed via the online portal maintained by the Administrative Office of the Courts.
• Department of Licensing (DOL): The Washington State Department of Licensing provides access to driving records and information on traffic violations. Requests can be made using their online services.
• Local Law Enforcement Agencies: For records held at the local level, you may need to contact the specific law enforcement agency directly.
• Please note that access to certain records may be restricted or require authorization. Obtaining someone else’s information without their consent could be against the law. Always follow the proper procedures and adhere to privacy regulations when requesting this type of information.

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Inmate Records

In Washington State, inmate records typically contain information about individuals who are currently or were previously held in state correctional facilities. The specific details included in these records may vary, but generally consist of the following:

• Personal Information: Basic identifying details such as the inmate’s full name, date of birth, gender, race, and other relevant identifiers.
• Booking Details: This section outlines the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s arrest, including the date, time, and location, as well as the arresting agency and the charges filed.
• Incarceration Details: Information about the inmate’s time in custody, including the date they were admitted to the facility, their current location, and their expected release date.
• Criminal Charges and Convictions: A summary of the charges filed against the inmate, the court that handled the case, and any convictions and related details.
• Mugshots: Arrest photos that are often included as part of the inmate’s official record.
• Parole and Probation Information: If applicable, this section details the inmate’s parole or probation status, including relevant dates and conditions.
• Release Information: Information about the inmate’s release, such as the release date and any conditions attached to it.

Where Can I Find Inmate Records?

There are multiple ways to find information about incarcerated individuals in Washington State. You can utilize online tools provided by the Washington Department of Corrections (DOC) or contact appropriate law enforcement agencies, depending on your needs. Below are some common methods for locating inmate records:

• Washington Department of Corrections (DOC) Site: The DOC provides an online offender search tool that gives access to details about individuals held in state prisons. The site is generally easy to navigate and offers a comprehensive inmate database.
• County Sheriff's Offices: For information on individuals held in local jails, you can reach out to the sheriff’s office in the county where the arrest took place. These offices typically maintain records of inmates in county detention centers.
• Court Records: In some cases, arrest information, charges, and conviction details can be found through public court records.

When using online tools, it’s important to rely on official and reputable sources. Always respect privacy laws and regulations when accessing or sharing inmate information.

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Washington Court Records

Washington Court Records typically cover a wide range of legal matters, including criminal cases, civil disputes, family law issues, and more.

The exact contents of a court record can vary depending on the case type and the specific court where it was filed. However, Washington Court Records generally include the following information:

• Case Details: This section contains key information such as the case number, filing date, and the nature of the case (e.g., criminal, civil, family).
• Involved Parties: Lists the names of the individuals or entities involved, including plaintiffs, defendants, and their legal counsel.
• Charges or Allegations: In criminal cases, this part outlines the specific charges or accusations against the defendant.
• Court Proceedings: Provides details on hearings, trials, and other court events, including relevant dates and outcomes.
• Judgments and Orders: Includes any rulings, decisions, or official court instructions issued during the case.
• Sentencing Information: For criminal matters, this section covers sentencing details such as fines, probation, or other penalties imposed.

Where to Find Washington Court Records

To access court records in Washington, there are several sources you can investigate:

• Washington State Courts Site: The official site for Washington State Courts may provide access to court records. Additionally, individual counties often maintain their own online portals for retrieving such information.
• County Clerk’s Office: Visiting the county clerk’s office in the jurisdiction where the case was filed can allow you to view physical court records that are available to the public.
• Public Records Requests: You can also obtain copies of specific court records by submitting a public records request to the relevant court or county office.

Keep in mind that access to court records is subject to legal restrictions and privacy rules. It’s important to follow the proper procedures and comply with all applicable regulations when seeking court records in Washington.

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Washington Vital Records

Vital records in Washington refer to official documents that record and verify significant life events within the state, including births, marriages, divorces, and deaths. These records serve multiple purposes, such as legal verification, genealogical research, and background checks.

When conducting a background check in Washington, obtaining certain vital records might be required. Below is an overview of how to acquire different types of vital records in the state:

• Birth Records: Birth records are generally maintained by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). Requests for birth certificates can be made online, by mail, or in person through the DOH. Detailed instructions for obtaining birth records are available on the DOH’s official site.
• Marriage Records: Marriage records are usually handled by county auditors. To get a marriage certificate, you’ll typically need to contact the county auditor’s office where the marriage license was issued. Many counties allow requests either online or in person.
• Divorce Records: Divorce records are kept by the Superior Courts. To obtain a divorce certificate, contact the Superior Court in the county where the divorce was finalized. The Washington Courts site provides information on how to request these records.
• Death Records: Death records are also maintained by the Washington State Department of Health. You can request death certificates online, by mail, or in person through the DOH. Instructions for obtaining death certificates are available on the DOH site.

It’s important to note that access to some vital records may be restricted to the individual involved, immediate family members, or those with legal authorization. Always check with the relevant government agency to ensure you follow the proper procedures and meet eligibility requirements.

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Washington Background Check - FAQs

If you have questions about background checks in Washington, you might find the answers here. We’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions to address your concerns and provide detailed information. If you don’t find your specific question answered below, please keep reading for more details.

Can I Obtain a Free Background Check?

Conducting a thorough background check in Washington requires sorting through a lot of information, and finding trustworthy free services can be difficult. While there are free background check options available, they often lack the depth and reliability of paid services like BeenVerified, PeopleLooker, or TruthFinder. It’s important to be cautious when using free tools, as they may not provide comprehensive reports.

What Is the Cost?

In Washington, most background check services, such as BeenVerified, PeopleLooker, TruthFinder, and Intelius, typically charge a monthly fee ranging from $20 to $30. By subscribing, you gain access to conduct multiple background checks. If you prefer to pay per report instead of a subscription, US Search offers individual background check reports for about $59 per report.

Which Background Check Service Is Ideal for Washington?

BeenVerified is widely regarded as the top background check provider in Washington, offering extensive public record databases and powerful search tools for phone numbers and email addresses. PeopleLooker is another strong option, known for its easy-to-use interface and competitive pricing, making it a great alternative for those conducting background checks in the state.

Which Background Check Service Is Ideal for Washington?

Yes, non-residents can request a background check in Washington. The Washington State Patrol (WSP) processes criminal history requests regardless of residency. If you have not lived in Washington within the past five years, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a fingerprint card.

Is There a Records Custodian?

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is the official custodian of criminal history records in Washington. They collect and maintain records of criminal offenses and traffic violations from local law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities. Background check requests can be made through the WSP’s online system or by mail.

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Bottom Line

Navigating the complexities of background checks in Washington can be a challenging endeavor. This is largely due to the need to interact with multiple government agencies, submit formal document requests, and cover various associated fees.

Whether you're conducting a background check for public interest, trying to reconnect with someone from your past, or seeking clarity about a potential partner, the process can often feel overwhelming and time-intensive.

Fortunately, there’s a more streamlined and convenient option: using a top-rated background check service in Washington.

By simply providing key details, such as a person’s name, phone number, user ID, or address, these services can quickly generate detailed reports. This offers Washington residents a practical and efficient alternative for accessing important information.

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All product names, logos, brands, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use the non-FCRA approved services mentioned in this article or the information they provide to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. These services don’t provide consumer reports and are not consumer reporting agencies. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.) 

The information available here may not be 100% accurate, complete, or up to date, so do not use it as a substitute for your own due diligence, especially if you have concerns about a person’s criminal history. The services we mention do not make any representation or warranty about the accuracy of the information available through our website or about the character or integrity of the person about whom you inquire. For more information, please review each service’s Terms of Use.