Background info. questions

[webfoots]

First, I've been lurking for a couple days reading old threads and would like to thank dw for all his work on this site. It's by far one of the better forums I've seen on any topic.

For those that have successfully completed your background paperwork, any tips on finding dates for starting and ending jobs with past employers? I've heard that you could get some information from Social Security, does anybody know what form or number I need so I can get that information? Also, any tips on getting a look at past employers personel files? Is this something that they have to provide you if you ask?

Thanks

[junebughunter]

I've already called previous employeers and requested it. One told me on the spot, the other called me back the next day to let me know. I could have gone through and looked at paycheck stubs, but it was easier to just call.

[johnnyd]

I did Social Security, paid $35 and didn't get much, basically a waste of money. Only gives years for employment, month and day not listed. Gave address and phone number of employer, but some like the military only listed payroll in Kansas City. Not very helpful especially when business closed up. I gathered all my paperwork and did some serious brainstorming of the past to get the best dates I could. I would assume if you give a realistic effort and it shows, you'll be fine. But I'm not a BI, so...

[dw]

You can walk in to your local Social Security office and request the printout.

As for employment files, yes, they have to show them to you -- past and current employers. I don't have the section in front of me, but you definitely have access to them in California.

[pupdog]

DO THE SOCIAL SECURITY THING!!! I didn't realise that for a couple of weeks a few years back, my paycheck was coming from somebody besides the one I considered my employer (LONG story).

[TheForceCHP]

I personally just went to my old jobs and asked them for their records. One showed something slightly diffrent then what was the truth, but all I really cared about was what they where going to tell my BI as the truth. I also mentioned too my BI that the dates weren't correct, that this is what they showed me, and what the truth was. In the end there was no problems