How far back do background checks look at employment records?

Question

I have lots of years of employment history, lots of different places as I'm the mother of 4.

How far back, in years, will a potential employer check employment records? 7 years? I didn't indicate employment going way back as I started working full time in 1978.

Thanks.

Answer 1

It depends.  I would go back 5-10 years.  If they want more they will ask.  But if its specified, then give them what they ask for.  Good luck.

Answer 2

As a background screening provider, the typical employment check is between 5-7 years.  There are certain companies that wish to check back 10 years, but I have never heard of anyone going back 30 years.