FBI-background check
This one seems like it would be relatively EASY and it is….BUT you have to make sure to select an option that will send you a mailed version of the background check or you will end up having to get the form apostilled (essentially certified in a way beyond a notary).
Based on that intro, I’m sure you can tell I did it wrong the first time around. Or not wrong exactly, but a bit more costly. I first signed up for it through the USPS fingerprint services. Then I could not figure out how to schedule an FBI fingerprint at the USPS (fyi - the ones around me don’t allow scheduling for it…), so went with an FBI approved channeler. Absolutely no issues with the channeler - quick and easy - actually got the results the next day. BUT when I asked him when it would get mailed to me, he stared at me blankly. I thought well, maybe they will send it and he just doesn’t know that part. I also googled away and found many reports of centers taking the non sealed FBI check as long as the print out could see the background seal from the email (i.e. watermark).
Well, then as I kept reading, I was seeing more and more people say that no, it must be apostilled or sealed to be accepted. So I essentially did both. I sent my printed FBI background check from the approved channeler to the Office of Authentications to get the apostille mark AND I went to the USPS to get my fingerprints taken for this elusive option for a mailed version of the check.
A think to note on the USPS/FBI version - you will get a very generic email when that comes back and you must search for your old email for a link and a pin to get the option. You can request the hard copy in the circled area see picture below.
I started all this process about 3 weeks prior to my appointment. I had some work travel in there which delayed me figuring out the need for the apostille - unclear if the sealed letter will still work or not. However, I am assured that as long as I take the email of the check, I can send in the apostilled version after the appointment. Since my return envelope hasn’t been scanned in yet, I am not hopeful it will be here before my appointment.
Will update as soon as I can after my appointment on Nov 27th!
Costs - FBI fee $18, USPS fee (fingerprints) $50, FBI approved channeler $50, UPS to send form for apostille and return $35, Apostille cost $20.
