Background Checks & Fingerprinting

Before coming in for a background check or fingerprints, please read all information below. Following these instructions will help ensure your background check is completed correctly and without delay.


What to Bring

  • A state issued photo ID is required
  • Bring all required information on paper
  • Cell phones are not permitted in the building


It is the responsibility of you and or your employer, school, or requesting agency to provide the correct information for your background check, including:

  • Required reason code
  • Recipient name and address
  • Direct copy recipients if applicable

Background Check Appointments

Background checks are conducted:


Tuesday and Wednesday

8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.


Appointment required

Contact Captain Slates at 740-283-8600 to schedule.


Location

Jefferson County Justice Center

16001 State Route 7

Steubenville, Ohio 43952


Fingerprinting Options

Ink Rolled Fingerprints (Fingerprint Card)

  • No appointment required
  • Available Monday through Friday during normal business hours
  • Free of charge


It is your responsibility, along with the requesting entity, to determine whether you need:

  • Ink fingerprints
  • Electronic fingerprints
  • Or both

WebCheck Electronic Fingerprints (BCI & FBI)

Fees

  • BCI (Ohio background check): $35.00
  • FBI (Interstate background check): $36.25


Payment Requirements

  • Cashier’s check or money order only
  • Make payable to: Jefferson County Sheriff
  • No cash, credit cards, or personal checks accepted


If you need both BCI and FBI checks, you may submit one payment totaling $71.25.

Groups may also submit one combined payment if preferred.


Processing Information

WebCheck fingerprints are captured digitally and sent electronically to Ohio BCI.

Ohio BCI processes the background check and mails results to the recipient you provide.

  • Processing time: 1 to 45 days (per Ohio BCI)


Important Clarification

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office only initiates the background check.

This office:

  • Does not conduct the background check
  • Does not store results
  • Cannot provide copies of previous background checks


All results are maintained and distributed by Ohio BCI.


Local / In House Background Check

  • Conducted by Sheriff’s Office clerks
  • Free of charge
  • Searches Jefferson County Jail booking records only


This check does not include state, federal, or other agency databases.


Reason Codes & Applicant Responsibility

The applicant is responsible for providing accurate and complete information, including:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security number
  • Correct reason code
  • Recipient name and address


Most background checks are required for employment. Your employer should provide you with a form containing all required information.

Reason Code Examples

  • 3701.881 – Home Health Agency Responsible for Children or Adults
  • 3721.121 – Nursing Home or Adult Daycare Program


These are examples only. Ohio law and employer requirements determine which positions require background checks and which reason code applies.


If you do not provide the correct reason code, this office cannot guarantee the background check will be submitted correctly.

Proceeding with incorrect information is the responsibility of the applicant.


Reason Code Resources