A.  Yes.  In fact, we highly recommend it.  That said, in order to perform the background check, the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires you, as the employer, to acquire written consent from the nanny.  Note that the consent form must be separate from any other agreement– that is, the nanny must give his/her consent, in writing, on a document exclusively requesting permission to run a background check.

For more information please visit the FTC’s explanatory page by clicking here.

Some states also regulate the ability of employers to obtain background checks on their current and/or potential employees. Please consult with the appropriate state regulatory agency for information regarding its particular requirements.