Questions to Ask Before Scheduling Combined BCI and FBI Fingerprinting

A request for “BCI and FBI” fingerprinting can sound straightforward, but the appointment is only one step in a larger process. The requesting employer, licensing board, school, or other organization determines which checks are needed, why they are being requested, and where results should be sent. Confirming those details first can help avoid a mismatched submission or an unnecessary second visit.

FindUsOhio’s directory listing for Ohio Security & Investigations identifies fingerprinting services from its Youngstown office. Before scheduling a combined state and federal check, applicants can use the questions below to confirm what the requesting organization actually needs.

1. Does the requesting organization require both checks?

Ask the organization that requested your fingerprints to specify whether it needs a BCI check, an FBI check, or both. “Combined” should not be assumed simply because an application mentions a background check. Requirements depend on the purpose, and an employer or licensing authority should provide the applicable instructions.

The Ohio Attorney General’s background check overview explains Ohio BCI fingerprint checks and notes that requirements depend on the employment or licensing purpose. The Attorney General’s background-check FAQs also explain limits on when BCI can process FBI checks for Ohio employment purposes. Personal-use FBI Identity History Summary and immigration requests follow FBI instructions instead, rather than being treated as an ordinary combined employment submission.

2. What reason or purpose should be used?

Ask the requesting organization for the exact reason, purpose, or code it requires. Do not choose one based on a guess or reuse instructions from a different application. The reason helps determine how a submission is processed and whether the particular BCI/FBI combination is appropriate.

Also confirm whether the requester needs results sent directly to a named agency, employer, or licensing body. The recipient information and forms can be as important as the fingerprint appointment itself.

3. Is this a fingerprint-based check, and what format is accepted?

Confirm that the requester requires fingerprint-based checks, rather than another kind of background review. A commercial background report is not a substitute for a required fingerprint-based BCI or FBI check.

Ohio’s Attorney General says electronic WebCheck or card scanning is generally required unless an exemption applies. Ask the requester whether it accepts electronic capture for the specific purpose, and whether it has special instructions or forms. If the requester specifically needs an ink fingerprint card, verify that separately; it is not the same as submitting an electronic BCI/FBI transaction.

4. What should be brought to the appointment?

The Ohio Security & Investigations fingerprinting page describes appointment-only support for BCI, FBI, combined checks, and FD-258 ink cards. Its instructions say to bring valid state-issued photo identification, the requesting agency’s forms or reason instructions, and recipient information. Applicants should check the fingerprinting service details and appointment request page before arranging a visit, since appointment options can change.

A useful pre-appointment checklist:

• Written confirmation of whether BCI, FBI, or both are required.
• The required purpose or reason instructions and any agency forms.
• The correct recipient name and delivery information.
• Valid state-issued photo identification.
• Confirmation that the appointment is for electronic capture or an ink card, as applicable.

Do not send identification images, Social Security numbers, fingerprints, or criminal-record information through a public comment or unsecured message. Ask the requester and service provider how sensitive information should be handled.

5. What happens if information is wrong or the prints are rejected?

Ask the requesting organization how it handles a rejected transaction or a submission with incorrect details. The Ohio Attorney General’s FAQs state that BCI cannot correct submitted transaction information; a new submission may be necessary. A rejection letter applies to the check identified in that letter and does not automatically mean both BCI and FBI checks were rejected.

A fingerprint resubmission and a challenge to criminal-record information are different processes. If a result or rejection raises a concern, follow the instructions from the issuing agency and requester rather than assuming that repeating fingerprints will resolve a record dispute.

6. How should timing and appointment availability be confirmed?

Ask both the requesting organization and the fingerprinting provider about their current instructions and expected process. The provider cannot control the requesting agency’s requirements or guarantee an agency’s processing time or outcome. The company’s displayed availability and pricing can change, so applicants should confirm current appointment options directly instead of relying on old listings or assuming walk-in service.

Taking a few minutes to confirm the purpose, reason, delivery destination, and accepted format can make the appointment better prepared. It does not guarantee approval or a particular turnaround.

Contact Ohio Security & Investigations

For appointment questions about BCI, FBI, combination fingerprinting, or ink cards, contact Ohio Security & Investigations at 7087 West Blvd #8, Youngstown, Ohio 44512, or call (888) 341-6960. Visit ohioinvestigators.com or review its fingerprinting services and appointment request page. The business advertises service from its Youngstown office; confirm current appointment arrangements before visiting.

This article provides general information, not legal advice. The requesting organization determines the check and instructions applicable to an application.