US client asking to do background check

[sevenupcan]

Hi,

I am in the process of securing a new contract however the client is based in the US and they are requesting me to fill out some forms for a background check that I am not sure are applicable to me.

The process they are using to perform the background check is using the FCRA (fair credit reporting act) which I don't believe is applicable to UK residents.

Has anyone had experience of working with a client in the US and being asked permission for a background check and what information they asked you for?

Many thanks,
Gavin

 

[The Byre]

Assuming that you are a UK Ltd., who you are, your turnover, other financial records and your credit rating is all a matter of public record. Point them at any one of the dozens of company records websites and tell them to knock themselves out (politely, of course!)

In the US, company returns are not a matter of public record (unless of course, they are a publicly listed company) and yes, they do need the other party's permission - they don't for UK companies.

 

[billmccallum1957]

Send them a link to companies house where your info is freely available.

 

[sevenupcan]

Thanks for the replies. They're asking permission to check previous address, any issuance of government sanctions and criminal record history. None of which I think is standard practice in the UK for limited companies or individuals unless your job means you work in healthcare or with children.

 

[JEREMY HAWKE]

Is it profitable Gavin
I wrote something about this subject some months ago and half the people subscribing to the thread agree that too many questions are not worth the business