In the United States, there isn’t a single universal form titled “Request A Background Investigation.” Instead, the form used depends on the level of review and the type of position. Federal agencies typically rely on standardized questionnaires that collectors use to assess an individual’s suitability for employment, access to sensitive information, or possession of a security clearance. Understanding which form applies helps job applicants and contractors anticipate the information needed and the process involved. This article explains the main forms, their purposes, and how the request process works.
Overview Of Federal Background Investigation Forms
Background investigations are conducted to determine an individual’s trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The two most common forms used by federal agencies are the SF-85 series for low- to moderate-risk positions and the SF-86 for higher-security clearances. The SF-85 family, administered through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), covers general background information, while the SF-86, typically completed via the electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-QIP), covers more detailed personal and financial information for security clearances. Contractors and certain federal employees may also be asked to complete these or related forms depending on the role and agency requirements.
Key Forms Used In Background Investigations
The following forms are the most commonly encountered in federal background checks. Each form serves a distinct purpose and is chosen based on the job type and level of access.
- SF-85, Questionnaire for Public Trust Positions — Used for individuals seeking employment or access involving public trust, typically at lower risk levels. It collects basic identifying information, employment history, residences, affiliations, and some financial data.
- SF-85P, Questionnaire for Public Trust Positions (Enhanced) — An enhanced version of the SF-85 for certain public trust positions that may require more detailed information and verification. It is often used for roles with increased risk or sensitive responsibilities.
- SF-86, Questionnaire for National Security Positions — The comprehensive form for individuals requiring a security clearance. It includes extensive sections on residences, travel, employment history, education, family, foreign contacts, financial status, and criminal history.
- SF-91 and SF-93 — Used in some state or local contexts or for specific investigations; these are older or more specialized questionnaires applicable to particular agencies or contracts.
- e-QIP System — Not a form by itself, but the secure online platform used to complete the SF-86 (and sometimes other forms). It streamlines submission, routing, and adjudication of investigations for national security clearances.
When Is Each Form Used?
Understanding the typical scenarios helps clarify which form a requester will see.
- — Used when the position is considered a public trust without national security clearance requirements, such as many federal clerical, administrative, or contractor roles. The process assesses reliability and trustworthiness for access to non-sensitive information and facilities.
- SF-85P — Selected for public trust roles that carry higher risk or greater responsibility than standard roles. The enhanced information helps agencies evaluate the potential for abuse of position or impact on mission critical functions.
- SF-86 — Required for positions involving access to classified information or high-level security clearances. This form triggers a full background investigation, often including checks of criminal history, credit history, and foreign contacts, along with interviews.
- Other agency-specific forms — Some departments may customize forms or add supplemental questionnaires to capture information unique to their missions or compliance requirements.
Accessing The Forms And The Submission Process
Most federal forms are distributed through official channels and require secure handling. The SF-85 and SF-85P are typically provided by the hiring agency or its designated human resources office. The SF-86 is completed electronically via the e-QIP system, accessible to authorized personnel only.
- Where to start — Begin with the agency’s human resources or security office. They will confirm which form applies to the position and provide instructions for completion.
- How to complete — For SF-85 and SF-85P, information is entered manually, often with support from HR staff. For SF-86, applicants use the e-QIP portal, which guides users through sections and provides explanations for required data.
- Security considerations — These forms include sensitive personal data. Only authorized personnel should access them, and applicants should safeguard their login credentials for e-QIP and ensure submission follows agency timelines.
What Information Is Typically Requested
While the exact fields vary by form, the core categories are consistent across background investigations. Applicants should be prepared to provide:
- Personal identification — Full name, aliases, date and place of birth, social security number, and citizenship status.
- Residences and travel — Addresses for the past several years, foreign travel, and duration of stays.
- Employment history — Employer names, addresses, phone numbers, job duties, and reasons for leaving prior positions.
- Education and professional licenses — Schools attended, degrees earned, certifications, and licensure details.
- Financial information — Income, debts, assets, bankruptcies, and financial obligations that could indicate vulnerability to coercion.
- Criminal and legal history — Arrests, charges, convictions, and ongoing legal proceedings.
- Foreign contacts and influence — Ties to foreign nationals, business dealings abroad, and potential conflicts of interest.
- Military service and security information — Service records, security clearances held, and details relevant to adjudication.
Tips For Completing Background Investigation Forms
Accuracy and completeness are crucial. The following practices help ensure a smooth process and timely adjudication.
- Be thorough — Include all periods of residence, employment gaps, and relevant information. Omissions can delay investigations.
- Document support — Retain records such as tax documents, address histories, and employer references to verify entries if needed.
- Review for consistency — Cross-check dates, addresses, and names across sections to avoid contradictions that could raise questions.
- Understand privacy implications — Recognize what information is collected and how it will be used; agencies provide privacy notices explaining data handling.
- Ask for help — If a form is unclear, contact the agency’s security office or HR representative for guidance before submission.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Even small errors can slow down a background investigation. Common mistakes include incomplete sections, misspelled names, outdated contact information, and failing to disclose relevant legal matters. To avoid delays, applicants should complete the form in one sitting when possible, save a copy for their records, and promptly address any follow-up requests from the agency.
What To Do If A Background Investigation Is Delayed
Delays may occur due to missing information, additional checks, or agency backlogs. If a delay happens, applicants should maintain contact with the agency’s security office, verify the status through official portals if available, and promptly provide any requested supplemental documentation. Patience and proactive communication help minimize extended timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a single form for all background investigations? No. The form depends on the role and level of access. SF-85 series is for public trust positions, while SF-86 is used for security clearances.
- Can I complete these forms online? The SF-86 is completed through the e-QIP system. SF-85 and SF-85P are typically filled out on paper or through agency portals.
- Who can access my forms? Only authorized agency personnel involved in the hiring or security process can access the information.
- Are these forms required for contractors? Yes, many contractor roles require background checks, and the corresponding forms are used to assess suitability.
In summary, while there is no single “What Form Is Used to Request a Background Investigation?” answer, federal process usually centers on the SF-85 family for public trust roles and the SF-86 for security clearances, with the latter often administered via the e-QIP system. By understanding which form applies, gathering the necessary information, and following agency instructions, applicants can navigate the background investigation process more efficiently and with greater clarity.