The South Carolina Disclosure and Consent for a Consumer and Investigative Report and Release Authorization is a legal document that is commonly used by employers in South Carolina to obtain permission from job applicants or employees to conduct background checks or investigations for employment purposes. This document is in compliance with state and federal laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the South Carolina Consumer Protection Code. The purpose of this disclosure and consent form is to inform individuals about their rights and obtain their consent before obtaining and using consumer reports or investigative consumer reports for employment purposes. It ensures transparency and gives individuals the opportunity to review and dispute any inaccurate information contained in these reports. The South Carolina Disclosure and Consent for a Consumer and Investigative Report and Release Authorization typically consists of several sections: 1. Disclosure: This section discloses to the individual that a consumer report or investigative consumer report may be obtained for employment purposes. It includes information about the nature and scope of the background check, such as criminal records, credit history, employment and education verification, and personal references. 2. Authorization: This section seeks the individual's consent to obtain the consumer report or investigative consumer report. By signing the form, the individual authorizes the employer to request and obtain the necessary information from various sources, including but not limited to credit bureaus, educational institutions, previous employers, and personal references. 3. Rights Under the FCRA: This section explains the individual's rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, such as the right to request a free copy of their consumer report within 60 days, the right to dispute inaccurate information, and the right to know the name and contact information of the consumer reporting agency that provided the report. 4. Release of Liability: This section releases the employer and any third-party agencies involved in the background check process from any liability that may arise from obtaining or using the information contained in the consumer report or investigative consumer report. It states that the employer and its agents are acting in good faith and in compliance with applicable laws. It is important to note that there may be variations of the South Carolina Disclosure and Consent for a Consumer and Investigative Report and Release Authorization depending on the specific employer or industry. Some employers may have additional sections or language specific to their industry requirements or to ensure compliance with other legislation. Overall, this document serves to protect the rights of individuals and provide a clear understanding of the background check process to both employers and job applicants or employees.