Having the resources to quickly and efficiently run a Background Check on potential employees or contractors can be a challenge for small businesses.  Many sole proprietors and entrepreneurs just take people on their word because they just don't have the time to research their history. 

It is important to conduct background checks when hiring or making contracts because if your employee or representative breaks the law while doing their duties for your company, you can be held liable in some instances.  Conducting a Criminal Check can help you find out if that person has a history of fraud or theft and can protect you from repeat offenders.  

You might also be looking for a litte more information or verification of what the applicant has told you about themselves.  There are people who give false or leading information in their enthusiasm to work for you and then you end up with a person that may not be actually qualified to do the job.

The National Criminal Background Check by SentryLink gives one report with information on criminal records including misdemeanors and felonies very affordably.  You can run several background checks at once to save time.  They also provide you with a resource center where you can get information about employee screening, including FCRA regulations compliance with printable employee background check release form.