Applicants, license holders, all others living in the home 13 years and older, current, and potential caregivers, employees, and volunteers must have a background study.
The person being studied must complete a data collection form, have their identity confirmed by the county, enter their information online via the state operated background study system called NETStudy2, and have their photograph and fingerprints taken. You'll receive instructions from the licensor.
Most minors will not have to be fingerprinted.
Studies must be submitted for all people aged 13 and over living in the home when a person first applies for a license.
Other times when a provider must make sure a background study is completed include:
when a household members turns 13 years old
before a person (not a resident) moves into the home
when a new caregiver (paid or volunteer) starts
the study must be submitted before they have contact with residents
when a person is absent from the program for 120 days (talk with your licensor)
this does not apply for individuals attending college away from home
If the agency has reasonable cause, studies can be done on:
10- to 12-year-olds and
individuals who may have unsupervised contact with individuals receiving services
Reasonable cause is when the agency has information about the person possibly having a criminal or other record.
Failure to make sure a background study is completed when required can result in a fine of $200 per occurrence and/or other negative licensing actions.