REPORT SAYS YOU’RE SOMEONE ELSE? — Fixing Background Check Disasters Before They Derail Your Life
Background check errors can cost you a job or a home
Learn how to dispute inaccuracies and when to take legal action. R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys break it down.
One Report, One Mistake, One Big Mess: What to Do If Your Background Check Is Wrong
Background checks are supposed to give employers, landlords, and licensing boards peace of mind—not cause innocent people to lose opportunities. But when screening companies cut corners or mix up records, the fallout can be devastating. At R23 Law, we’ve seen it all—from criminal records tied to the wrong person to outdated credit data sinking job offers.
If you’ve been affected by background check errors, our R23 Law California Consumer Protection Attorneys want you to know: You have rights. And you don’t have to navigate the dispute process alone.
Common Background Check Errors That Could Be Wrecking Your Life
Errors can sneak into a background report in multiple ways. Here’s where they usually happen:
🔹 Personal Information Errors
Incorrect names, addresses, Social Security numbers, or birthdates can cause your report to pull in someone else’s record—especially if they have a similar name.
🔹 Criminal Record Mix-Ups
Few errors are more damaging than being linked to a criminal history that isn’t yours. Whether it’s outdated data, expunged charges, or a mistaken identity, these mistakes can lead to job loss or housing denials.
🔹 Credit Report Inaccuracies
Your credit report might show outdated accounts or incorrect balances that make you look riskier than you really are. This affects more than just loans—it could impact employment screening or housing decisions.
The Dispute Process: Step-by-Step
R23 Law’s California Background Check Error Lawyers recommend taking the following actions:
1. Request Your Report
Start by obtaining a copy of the background check from the employer, landlord, or the background screening company.
2. Identify and Document Errors
Go through the report carefully. Highlight anything inaccurate and gather supporting documents to prove your case.
3. Send a Formal Dispute
Write a background check dispute letter that includes:
Your full legal name and contact information
A description of each error
Evidence proving the information is wrong
A request for correction
Mail it certified with tracking. This creates a legal record of your efforts—critical if you end up filing a lawsuit later.
Special Cases: When Errors Involve Credit or Public Records
If your dispute involves credit data, contact all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Each bureau has its own dispute process, and under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), they must investigate and respond within 30 days.
If your error stems from a public record (like an expunged conviction still showing up), you’ll need to contact the court directly to correct it.
Why You Need a Background Check Lawyer—Right Now
Disputing errors can feel overwhelming. Here’s how R23 Law’s attorneys make the process easier—and stronger:
We Handle the Heavy Lifting: We draft and send legally sound dispute letters and follow up with background check companies and credit bureaus.
We Escalate When Needed: If the company refuses to fix the issue, we’re ready to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for lost income, emotional distress, or reputational harm.
We Act Fast: Early intervention minimizes harm and builds a stronger legal case.
Real Talk: This Process Is Stressful. We’re Here So You Don’t Go Through It Alone
Background check errors can mess with your life, but with the right team, they don’t have to derail it.
R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys are fierce advocates with deep experience in background check litigation. We don’t just send letters—we get results. Whether you need help disputing a false report or you're ready to sue for damages, we’ll fight to make things right.
Take Action Now
📞 Call R23 Law for a free consultation.
📧 Or message us online to speak with a California Background Check Error Attorney today.
