SF-85 Background Checks
If you have ever applied for a federal job position, you have likely filled out a SF-85 form. SF-85 background checks are tedious, time consuming, and frustrating, but they are important.
SF-85 background checks usually consist of questions that will take you a few hours to complete. Before you begin filling out this form, you will want to find old address books, date books, resumes, and employment records. The SF-85 is a thorough form that requires a lot of older information, but if you fill out this form incorrectly, your form will be immediately rejected. It is extremely important that you pay careful attention to the form, and that you not make any sort of mistake.
One of the most common mistakes that people make while filling out a SF-85 form is that they leave large gaps in the “where you have lived” section. While it is difficult to remember all the street locations that you have lived at in the past, the government requires this information in order to deduce whether or not you are suitable for a Federal government position. If you leave a gap in the address section that exceeds 60 days, your form will be immediately rejected. The SF-85 form is one of the most thorough forms that you will ever have to fill out, but it is the only way that the government can ensure that you are a good choice.
Since SF-85 background checks are so conclusive, they must be of high importance, right? Well, this sort of background check is used to select government employees, so it must be very systematic. Imagine a world in which any person could walk off the street and become a government employee – this scenario would mean instant chaos. It would be nearly impossible for a government to know all about each of its citizens, which is why the SF-85 is a very useful tool.
The SF-85 form is also used for a number of other reasons, and most of the time applicants filling out this form are applying for some sort of important paperwork or position. Although the SF-85 can seem slightly intimidating, this form should be taken very seriously. In fact, those that do not spend a great deal of time filling in this form carefully could have to reapply, and begin a process all over again. Though all the information that the SF-85 asks for may seem unnecessary, this form is really the only reassurance that the government has regarding a particular person.
In short, SF-85 background checks are a hassle for all involved, but they are an integral part of keeping the country safe. Most people will not have to fill out this form during their lifetime, but if you are intent on becoming a government employee, expect an SF-85 form to come your way.