Background Checks: What to expect and what to do

More and more families are running background checks to screen child care, pet care, and senior care providers. And, thanks to the internet, they don't even have to look that hard.

• The benefit of running a check on yourself

Since the nitty-gritty of your past and present is fair game, it's best to be up front with prospective employers. Run a preemptive check that you can share. This not only demonstrates that you're honest and trustworthy, it also gives you a chance to ensure your record isn't being marred by identity thieves.

• What's out there?

The short answer: everything. To run a standard background check, a potential employer needs only your social security number to get results. A routine check, which will probably cost between $10 and $100, will tell your potential employer where you've lived and whether you have any court records (felonies, misdemeanors, civil proceedings, or sex offender listings).

A more expensive check will provide your credit history, driving records, and a list of your previous employers.

Run a background check on yourself. If there are errors, you can fix them. If mistakes from your past -- from speeding tickets to blemishes on your credit report -- show up, you'll be prepared to discuss them should the family ask. If you're concerned about the results, you can increase the number of character statements, testimonials, and references you keep on hand.