The Serve America Act (SAA) requires AmeriCorps programs to conduct a National Service Criminal History Check on all members and employees. This is a federal requirement that applies in all states. 

The background check is completed as part of the application process, and every applicant completes the same check. It’s important to know that a criminal history does not automatically disqualify a person from service or employment with AmeriCorps. 

However, individuals who have been convicted of murder or who are legally required to register with state or national sex offender registries are automatically disqualified. 

The National Service Criminal History Check includes:

• An FBI fingerprint check

• Search of state criminal history registries

• Search of National Sex Offender Public Website

• A Motor Vehicle Report (if position requires regular travel between sites) 

Ampact covers all costs associated with completing the National Service Criminal History Check. If an AmeriCorps service site (school, daycare, nonprofit, etc.) has additional background check requirements, the site must cover all expenses related to additional screening.

As part of the National Service Criminal History Check, applicants complete an online form, submit a copy of their government issued identification and a set of fingerprints. Applicants receive detailed instructions by email and must successfully clear the National Service Criminal History Check before they may begin their service. 

Applicants will receive an automated email notification when the fingerprint search and background check are complete. The notification(s) are sent directly from our approved vendors - Fieldprint and TrueScreen - and will include instructions on how to log in to view the results securely. 

When applicants clear the National Service Criminal History Check, they will receive email notification from Ampact. 

In the event the National Service Criminal History Check identifies an issue that impacts an applicant’s eligibility to serve, they will be notified in writing. The communication will include information on next steps and options for appeal. 

The results of the National Service Criminal History Background Check are confidential and protected. AmeriCorps Service Sites will only receive general status. For example, “the candidate doesn’t qualify for service at this time” or “the candidate’s background check is pending.” Specific results will not be shared unless an applicant provides written permission to do so. 

AmeriCorps Service Sites may have independent requirements for background screening and eligibility. If this is the case, candidates must successfully meet all eligibility criteria identified by the site. 

If an AmeriCorps service site has additional background check requirements, the site must cover all expenses related to additional screening and notify the candidate of their eligibility status. 

It’s possible that an applicant could successfully clear the National Service Criminal History check, but not clear the service site’s required screening. In the event this happens, our team will work to identify other service sites that may be an option.

As leaders in National Service, we believe communities are strongest when everyone is welcome, and we are committed to helping more people serve with AmeriCorps. If you have received an initial notification stating you are ineligible to serve, we encourage you to appeal and want to hear from you!

Whether you choose to appeal because your record contains inaccurate information or because you would like to provide additional context regarding a past conviction, your appeal will be reviewed by a committee who evaluates risks and mitigating circumstances. The committee relies on information you provide and meets regularly to review submissions. 

If your appeal is successful, you’ll be notified by our team and receive a date on which your service will begin.

For more information on the National Service Criminal History check or the process, please contact compliance.team@ampact.us. Please note, we’re unable to advise on potential eligibility until the results of the National Service Criminal History check are received.