Volunteer Background Check Policy Generator
Every nonprofit that screens volunteers should have a written background check policy. Answer a few questions and generate a comprehensive, FCRA-aware policy covering who is screened, how often, and how results are handled.
- Board-ready written policy
- Re-screening & records sections
- Word + PDF download
Generate your policy
How it works
Three steps, no sign-up
Answer a few questions
Tell us your organization, who you serve (children, elderly, vulnerable adults), and how often you want to re-screen.
Generate the policy
We draft a complete written policy covering eligibility, check types, FCRA handling, decisions, and records.
Adopt it
Download as Word or PDF, tailor it to your bylaws, and have your board formally adopt the policy.
About the volunteer background check policy generator
A written background check policy is one of the first things insurers, grantmakers, and auditors look for — and one of the simplest ways to show your nonprofit takes volunteer safety seriously. It defines who gets screened, what checks you run, how often you re-screen, and how you handle results fairly and consistently.
This generator produces a comprehensive, board-ready policy tailored to your organization and the populations you serve, with FCRA-aware handling of results and a recordkeeping section. Download it, adapt it, and adopt it at your next board meeting.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Why does my nonprofit need a written screening policy?
A written policy ensures consistency (which reduces discrimination risk), satisfies insurers and grant requirements, and demonstrates a duty of care. Applying screening the same way to everyone is far safer than ad hoc decisions.
Who should be background checked?
At minimum, anyone working with children, elderly people, or vulnerable adults, and anyone handling money or sensitive data. Many organizations screen all volunteers. Your policy should state clearly which roles require which checks.
How often should we re-screen volunteers?
Common practice is every one to three years, plus ongoing monitoring for high-risk roles. The generated policy lets you set a re-screening interval that matches your risk and budget.
Does the policy address FCRA compliance?
Yes. The generated policy includes language on obtaining authorization, using a consumer reporting agency, and following the adverse action process when a check affects a decision.
Keep going
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