Massachusetts

Massachusetts Background Check Data Supplier

The Value of a Reliable Public Record Information in Massachusetts

With over 20 years of experience, Eagle Eye Screening Solutions provides wholesale public records retrieval services.

When conducting criminal background checks, Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRAs) often start at the county level, as most criminal offenses and convictions are recorded there. However, relying only on county-specific data can limit the scope of a background check due to jurisdictional restrictions. To provide a more comprehensive search, Eagle Eye Screening Solutions offers both statewide and county criminal searches throughout Massachusetts.


The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is designed to protect the privacy of consumer reports and ensure that CRAs deliver accurate and up-to-date information. Having access to dependable background data in Massachusetts allows CRAs to create thorough and reliable reports, helping employers make sound hiring decisions and minimize the risk of negligent hiring lawsuits.

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Faster data turnaround times so you can get back to hiring.

Contact Form - Massachusetts State Page

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What May Be Reported on a State Criminal History Search?

When conducting a state criminal history search in Massachusetts, the information included can vary based on legal regulations and the individual’s background. Here are the key types of information that may be reported:

  • Misdemeanors: While most misdemeanor convictions are included, Massachusetts limits the reporting of certain offenses, particularly minor ones that are over five years old or have been sealed.
  • Felony Convictions: All felony convictions that are not sealed or expunged will appear in criminal history searches.
  • Juvenile Adjudications: Juvenile records are typically not reported unless they are legally allowed due to the severity of the crime.
  • Pending Charges: Any criminal charges currently pending against the individual can be reported, provided they are part of the public record.
  • Sealed or Expunged Records: Sealed or expunged records are not included in criminal background checks in Massachusetts unless special legal conditions apply.
  • Arrests: Arrests that did not lead to a conviction generally cannot be reported unless the case involved specific serious crimes.
  • Other Information: Additional details, such as aliases, dates of incarceration, and sentencing information, may also be included.


It’s crucial for employers to understand that Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) laws strictly regulate the access and use of criminal records, and written consent from the applicant is required.

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Background Data Restrictions and Regulations in Massachusetts

Employers in Massachusetts must follow several important regulations when conducting background checks:


Ban-the-Box Law:


Employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial job applications. Criminal records can only be discussed after a conditional offer of employment is made.

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI):


Employers must obtain written authorization to access CORI and provide applicants with a copy of the record before taking adverse action. Training on CORI use is recommended.


Marijuana Possession Records:


Employers cannot consider certain marijuana possession offenses that have been decriminalized.


Record Sealing and Expungement:


Certain criminal records, such as those sealed or expunged, cannot be asked about or considered in hiring decisions.


Limitations on Reporting:


Employers in Massachusetts can't ask about arrests without conviction, misdemeanors over five years old, or sealed records. Minor offenses and decriminalized marijuana use are also excluded.


Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) Compliance:


Background checks must follow FCRA rules. Employers must notify candidates of adverse decisions and provide a copy of the report and their rights.


Massachusetts Data Privacy and Security Laws:


Massachusetts is committed to protecting the personal information of its residents. Under the Massachusetts Data Security Law, any business handling personal data must implement a Written Information Security Program (WISP) to safeguard sensitive information, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and financial account details. This program sets rigorous guidelines to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.



Residents have the right to access, correct, and secure their personal information under these laws, ensuring their privacy and data protection.

Results In the Blink of An Eye

Your real-time criminal data can be pulled within minutes rather than days, so you meet your toughest clients expectations.

Our Screening Services

Faster data turnaround times so you can get back to hiring.

Automated Records Searches

The automated search is a special kind of search offered by Eagle Eye Screening that gives our customers more options on the level of detail they desire in their particular solution.

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Criminal Records Search

The criminal history search is one of the fundamental aspects of any background screening.

Criminal Records →

Civil Records Searches

In America today there are millions of civil cases filed each year, and each of these cases can give unique insights into all of the parties involved.

Civil Records →

Federal Records Search

The national and federal nationwide criminal and civil search is our largest search that we offer. 

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Business Records Searches

Eagle Eye will go as far as to offer screening solutions centered around a business search.

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Professional Affiliations

In the background screening industry today there are several specific organizations in place that set rules and guidelines which when adhered to give the guarantee of quality results.

Massachusetts Background Screening FAQs

  • What information can be included in a wholesale background check in Massachusetts?

    Personal: Name, date of birth, Social Security Number (SSN) (with protection under the Massachusetts Data Security Law).


    Criminal: Convictions and pending charges (in accordance with Massachusetts CORI regulations).


    Employment: Dates of employment, positions held, and verification of work history.

    Education: Confirmation of attendance and degrees earned.


    Other: Driving records, professional licenses, and references (with proper authorization).

  • What regulations govern wholesale background checks in Massachusetts?

    Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Sets national standards for the collection, use, and distribution of background check data.


    Massachusetts CORI Law: Governs how criminal records are accessed and used, including restrictions on sealed and expunged records and the requirement for written consent from applicants.


    Massachusetts Data Security Law: Requires businesses to safeguard personal data through a Written Information Security Program (WISP), ensuring the protection of sensitive information, such as SSNs.


    State & Federal Laws: Additional regulations may apply depending on the industry or type of data being collected.

  • How long is background check data stored in Massachusetts?

    • Background check data retention typically follows FCRA guidelines, which limit the inclusion of certain negative information (e.g., civil suits, arrests without convictions) to seven years.
    • Massachusetts Data Security Law mandates that sensitive personal data be handled and stored securely, although there are no state-specific retention periods beyond federal regulations.

  • Are there any restrictions on background checks in Massachusetts?

    Ban-the-box law: Employers in Massachusetts cannot inquire about an applicant's criminal history on initial job applications. Criminal records can only be discussed after a conditional offer of employment has been made.


    CORI limitations: Employers cannot ask about or consider certain minor offenses, sealed records, or misdemeanors older than five years.


    Individual access: Massachusetts residents can request their own CORI report from the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS).


    Consumer consent: Employers must obtain written consent before accessing credit reports or other sensitive personal data in accordance with the FCRA and CORI regulations.

Have Any Questions?

Our team is looking forward to talking with you. For any inquiries, questions, or comments, please call 714-315-3739, or fill out the following form:

714-315-3739

Order A Search For Massachusetts

Contact Form - Massachusetts State Page

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