Background Checks Program
Checks completed by entities
Entities must conduct background checks for employees and contractors that have regular and direct contact with clients. These caregiver background checks are required at time of hire, when there is a change in circumstances, and at least every four years thereafter.
See the following overview of the caregiver background check process.
Certain convictions or governmental findings may affect a person's eligibility to serve in caregiving roles. Other convictions may require notifications to clients or guardians when the client is receiving services in their private residence.
Please see the following resources:
- Caregiver background check system (Department of Justice's Wisconsin Online Record Check System (WORCS))
- E-Background Information Disclosure (eBID), F-82064
- Caregiver Background Check Documentation Requirements, P-03513 (PDF)
Checks completed by DQA
Individuals seeking any of the following approvals must apply for a background check:
- Entity operators
- Non-client residents
- Rehabilitation review applicants
The Division of Quality Assurance requires all background checks for the above individuals be submitted through the DQA Provider Portal. To learn more about the DHS DQA Provider Portal, including resources and other videos about using the system, visit the DHS DQA Provider Portal webpage.
This process does not affect background checks completed by entities for caregiver employees or contractors. Please see the process above for more information about background checks completed by providers for their staff.
At a minimum, background checks are required every 4 years and/or when there is a change in status for any individual requiring a background check. Certain entity types may be required to complete background checks on a more frequent basis due to specific regulatory requirements or due to department request.
All background checks submitted to DQA must be submitted through the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To learn more about the DHS DQA Provider Portal, including resources and other videos about using the system, visit the DHS DQA Provider Portal webpage.
Contact us
For questions about entity background check requirements, please email dhsdqabackgroundchecks@dhs.wisconsin.gov.
For questions about regulations, licensing, or certification requirements, please contact the appropriate DQA regional office.