[Anonymous]

Okay so here is my question. I have been applying for work since I passed the CPA exam and a couple days ago I received a response for a Staff Accountant position that I applied for with a firm named George Johnson & Company in downtown Detroit, MI. Anyway the email response that I received had three files attached to it (application form, a release form, and a packet on the firm itself and the services they provide). In the release form the firm wants me to provide information including my social security number and my driver’s license number. So I guess I have a few questions. One, has anyone heard of George Johnson & Company? They have offices in Ann Arbor, MI, Detroit, MI, and they recently opened an office in Chicago, IL. Second, is it normal for a CPA firm to ask for this kind of personal information? I spoke to the lady that sent me the email and she said it’s to do a background check on me. I would think this makes sense considering that when you are providing the type of services that CPAs, lawyers, and doctors provide that companies have to be sure that they are not hiring convicts or felons.

n

Now I did do a little bit of research on George Johnson & Company and they have a B+ rating according to the Better Business Bureau. I guess I just want to make sure that it is normal to give a potential employer (in this case a medium-sized CPA firm of approximately 20 members) your social security number and driver’s license number and if this firm is legitimate. I know with all the scams that are out there that I just want to be sure about these things. Any help is definitely appreciated. Thanks in advance!n

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[Anonymous]

Its very normal for a Company to perform a basic background check. Also, these checks are normally something done after an initial round of interviews, and the Company is considering an actual offer.

n

With confidential info, it is also common to send the information in a password protected zip file, or other type of encrypted format, and then to send the password under separate email.

n

Or perhaps hand deliver the information directly to them the day of the interview.n

n

[Anonymous]

Most employers will ask you for your SS # and Drivers License # these days. For many it is so they can perform a background check on you.

n

I too am uncomfortable with how many organizations ask for this sensitive information when they might not actually have a need for it, however when looking for a job/career you should expect to have to give it. Being that you actually did some research about the company and it looks legit, I would feel confident giving them my information.n

n

[Anonymous]

This firm is legit. They primarily do audit and attest services and have been in business over 20 years. However, I would be uncomfortable handing over this type of information without having an offer of employment. Typically, any offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory background check and usually, drug test/medical exam.n

n

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone! That was what I was looking for. I received a phone call yesterday and they want to schedule an interview for sometime this upcoming Tuesday. Hopefully I can impress them enough and land the job!!!n

n

[Anonymous]

Its very normal for a Company to perform a basic background check. Also, these checks are normally something done after an initial round of interviews, and the Company is considering an actual offer.

With confidential info, it is also common to send the information in a password protected zip file, or other type of encrypted format, and then to send the password under separate email.

Or perhaps hand deliver the information directly to them the day of the interview.

[Anonymous]

Most employers will ask you for your SS # and Drivers License # these days. For many it is so they can perform a background check on you.

I too am uncomfortable with how many organizations ask for this sensitive information when they might not actually have a need for it, however when looking for a job/career you should expect to have to give it. Being that you actually did some research about the company and it looks legit, I would feel confident giving them my information.

[Anonymous]

This firm is legit. They primarily do audit and attest services and have been in business over 20 years. However, I would be uncomfortable handing over this type of information without having an offer of employment. Typically, any offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory background check and usually, drug test/medical exam.

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone! That was what I was looking for. I received a phone call yesterday and they want to schedule an interview for sometime this upcoming Tuesday. Hopefully I can impress them enough and land the job!!!

[Author]

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