How Long Does a Walmart Background Check Take?

Michelle Wilson - December 1, 2023

With its relatively low barriers to entry, many online review platforms agree that Walmart is a great place to start your career. According to online data, the majority of American store and distribution center managers at Walmart began their careers as hourly associates. So, how do you set yourself up for success? As per Walmart’s application guidelines on their website, a resume that highlights your skills, a good interview, and a successful employee background check after job acceptance are the first steps.

Although the exact timeline may differ, Walmart background checks are typically estimated to take 2-3 days.

Understanding the Components of the Walmart Background Check

As part of Walmart’s Applicant Information Privacy Notice, the multinational retail corporation states that background and criminal information are some of the personal details kept on hand. Walmart’s comprehensive background check primarily centers on criminal history, encompassing felonies and misdemeanor arrests and convictions within the past seven years. Although, it’s reassuring to know that expunged records do not surface during the background check process.

Identity confirmation is another integral aspect of the Walmart background check, involving thoroughly examining address history and validating the Social Security number. This scrutiny aims to ensure the accuracy of the information provided in your application. Any inconsistencies, such as disparities between stated addresses and high school graduation locations, may lead to disqualification due to concerns about dishonesty.

Steps In A Background Check

Once you’ve submitted your initial application through the Hiring Center, the hiring manager will review your information. If your application shows promise, Walmart will invite you for an interview, with the timeline varying from hours to weeks based on factors like in-store hiring events. After a successful interview, the hiring manager may extend a job offer. Upon acceptance, you’ll receive pre-employment documents, including an official background check approval form, via email. This form guides you through submitting personal details and providing an electronic signature to authorize the background check. The background check can commence as soon as you provide approval to the third-party background check company.

You’ll receive a comprehensive set of pre-employment documents, a crucial component of which is the official background check approval form. This document is transmitted to you via email, providing a secure and efficient means of processing the necessary paperwork.

When Can A Candidate Expect Their Background Check To Be Complete?

The duration is entirely dependent on the background check company. Prospective employees grant authorization directly to the third-party site, bypassing Walmart management. Forum discussions on Indeed suggest a range from two hours to three weeks, with an average turnaround time of 24-48 hours during business days.

As per the Fair Credit Reporting Act, if your background check raises concerns, the hiring company must notify you, orally or in writing. They must provide contact information for the background check company, clarify the third party’s non-participation in hiring decisions, and inform you of your right to request a free copy of the background report for dispute purposes.

Factors That May Impact The Timeline

The caveat is that these timelines exist in the absence of complications. Therefore, if you are on a tight schedule, ensure you minimize these factors as much as possible.

Accurate Submission of Applicant Information

When initiating a background check, applicants must provide accurate information to the background check company. Any errors or omissions may result in delayed results, necessitating the applicant to resubmit the information for verification.

Internal Delays Within Background Check Companies

Background check companies operate with a combination of human resources and electronic systems. The balance between workforce availability and the volume of submissions influences the duration of a Walmart background check. Staff shortages or overwhelming submissions can lead to prolonged processing times. Additionally, issues with electronic systems or network disruptions can contribute to delays.

Navigating the Complexities of Multiple Outside Agencies

Unlike an FBI fingerprint background check, there is no centralized repository encompassing background information for every individual. To compile a comprehensive report, background check companies must navigate federal, state, and county records. The complexity increases if an applicant has lived in multiple counties or states, requiring identifying the right agencies. Delays may arise due to the time-consuming nature of this process, compounded by potential restrictions in personnel or technology within these agencies.

The Applicant’s History

If the applicant has a complex history, such as having lived in multiple locations, it may take longer to gather and verify the relevant information. In another example, consider that if an applicant has legally changed their name, either due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, it introduces an additional layer of complexity. Background check providers need to ensure that information is cross-referenced accurately under both the old and new names, which may require more thorough investigation.

How To Achieve A Successful Background Check

When undergoing a background check for a position at Walmart, honesty is your strongest ally. Regardless of your expectations about what the check might reveal, ensure that every response in your application and interview is truthful and thorough.

While Ban the Box ensures a fair evaluation of your qualifications, it’s crucial not to resort to inaccuracies, such as providing false dates for previous jobs to fill employment gaps. In the event that undisclosed information surfaces during the background check, it could result in a ban from working at any Walmart property. Remember, the decision ultimately lies with the location hiring manager, so take the opportunity to establish a personal connection. Putting your best foot forward with honesty and a genuine approach can significantly contribute to a successful outcome in the background check process at Walmart.

Can Candidates Dispute Their Walmart Background Check?

Certainly, candidates have the right to dispute any discrepancies in their background checks. To initiate this process, they should contact Walmart to obtain the contact information of the third-party vendor responsible for conducting the background check. Communicating with the vendor directly is imperative to address and resolve any errors. According to regulations, the third-party vendor must produce the corrected report within 30 days of you raising the candidate. This ensures that candidates can rectify inaccuracies and assess their background information fairly.

What Happens If I Pass My Background Check at Walmart?

Walmart initiates the orientation process for new employees who successfully complete the background check and drug test. Typically scheduled on the day following selection, this step signifies progress in the hiring process. However, it’s important to note that attending orientation doesn’t guarantee permanent employment. While the store has earmarked the employee for a specific position, reconsidering or dismissal is still possible if deemed necessary.

Understanding Walmart’s Approach to Candidate Background Checks

The duration of the background check process may fluctuate based on the candidate’s history. Candidates should regularly check their emails to ensure that any delays that may come with correspondence are not due to events in their control to help accelerate the process.