FBI Updates User Fees for Non-Criminal Background Checks

You might care about this because the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is changing the fees it charges for certain criminal history record checks. These checks are not for law enforcement purposes. Instead, they are used for things like getting a job or obtaining a professional license. The fees help cover the FBI's actual costs for providing these services. They also help pay for the automation of fingerprint identification and other criminal justice information services. The FBI regularly reviews these fees to make sure they are fair and accurate. After a recent study, the FBI decided to increase some of these fees. This new fee schedule will begin on October 1, 2026. The document explains that the FBI is allowed by law to collect these fees. It also states that they follow a specific process to determine the right amount. This ensures that the fees reflect the true cost of providing these important background checks to various organizations and individuals. What is particularly interesting about this update is the FBI's commitment to regularly reviewing and adjusting its user fees. This shows a dedication to keeping the costs for these services aligned with their operational expenses. It also highlights the FBI's ongoing efforts to fund and maintain modern systems for identifying fingerprints and managing criminal justice information. The document makes it clear that these fees are specifically for non-criminal justice uses. This distinction is important because it separates these background checks from those used in active criminal investigations. The increases, while small for a single check, reflect careful calculation based on an independent study. This process ensures that the fees are fair and based on actual data, rather than arbitrary decisions. It helps ensure the system remains self-sustaining for the many entities that rely on it. People who would be most interested in this legal document include a wide range of professionals and organizations. Employers, especially those who routinely conduct background checks for new hires, will want to understand the new costs. Licensing boards for various professions will also be affected. They need to know the updated fees for background checks required to grant licenses. Individuals who are applying for jobs or professional licenses that require a federal background check will also find this information relevant. This includes people seeking certain government contracts or security clearances. Additionally, organizations known as channeling bureaus, which help process these requests, will need to adapt to the new fee structure. Legal professionals who advise businesses on employment law or compliance issues should also be aware of these changes.