Some Handshake AI customers require background checks as part of their security and compliance processes. If you're assigned to work on a project with one of these customers, you'll be asked to complete a background check (BGC) before you can begin.
Your background check is completed through three connected systems: the Handshake AI platform, Persona, and Yardstik. Handshake AI initiates the process, Persona securely collects and verifies your identity information, and Yardstik performs the background screening. These systems work together to provide a secure and streamlined experience.
This article explains how the background check process works and what you can expect. Keep in mind that the exact screens and interface may change over time as Persona and Yardstik update their products, but the overall process remains the same.
How the Process Works
1. From your dashboard, open the project you've been invited to and click Verify.
2. Click Begin Verifying to start the verification process.
3. Enter your email address in the provided space. This is used for correspondence about your background check, then click Continue.
4. Enter your information. You'll be asked to provide the information required to complete your background check, including:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Current address
5. Review and sign the required disclosures. Carefully review each and provide your consent where required. You'll complete the following steps:
- Background Check Disclosure
-
State and Local Law Notices and Disclosures
- Note: Because Handshake is based in California, all contributors must review and acknowledge the California Background Investigation Disclosure.
- Acknowledgment and Authorization for Background Check
- Summary of Rights Acknowledgment
- Privacy Policy Agreement
6. After you've completed all required acknowledgments and signatures, click Done.
You'll be returned to your dashboard, where your background check will be marked as Complete and submitted for review.
What Happens Next
Your background check is reviewed. Background check results are typically available within 7 days, although some checks may take longer depending on the information that needs to be verified.
You can continue onboarding for the project while the background check is pending. You don't need to wait for your background check to finish before continuing project onboarding.
If your background check is approved
No further action is required. Once your background check meets the project's requirements, you'll be able to continue tasking.
If additional review is needed
If your background check does not meet the project's requirements, you'll receive a Pre-Adverse Action Notice from Yardstik. This notice gives you a minimum of 7 days to:
- Review your background check report
- Dispute any inaccurate information
- Provide additional information before a final decision is made
If you need to dispute information in your report, refer to Yardstik's Help Center article How can I dispute the results of my report?