background check nebraska guide for employers and renters

What shows up and why it matters

In Nebraska, a background check can include criminal history from the Nebraska State Patrol, county court records, and identity verification. Employers often review it for safekeeping and compliance; landlords use it to gauge reliability. A clean report isn’t required for every role, but job duties and housing policies shape decisions.

How to request and prepare

For official criminal history, many start with the State Patrol criminal history report; county searches add detail on recent filings. Before applying, confirm your name variations, gather past addresses, and review your own record to spot errors.

• Dispute inaccuracies quickly with documentation.
• Explain context for older misdemeanors in one concise paragraph.
• Ask if the role is covered by ban-the-box or fair chance practices.
• Keep pay stubs or leases to verify timelines.

Real-world example: a Omaha retail applicant disclosed a dismissed shoplifting case and provided the court disposition; the employer appreciated the transparency and hired them. Another renter in Lincoln offered references and a steady income letter to offset a dated eviction, which strengthened their application.