When you attempt to check references supplied by a potential employee, you may find that many people and institutions will ask for a release before providing information. They are reasonably trying to protect themselves from any potential liability for disclosing information regarding a person who doesn't want the information made known. To that end, this sample information release form should be signed by prospective employees. The purpose of the authorization is to let former employers, educational institutions, and personal references know that the applicant about whom you are seeking information has consented to its release to you.

Consider incorporating the following language and feature it prominently in the employment application. In addition it can be duplicated and added to a reference check form that is mailed or faxed.

Applicant Information Release

I hereby authorize any person, educational institution, or company I have listed as a reference on my employment application to disclose in good faith any information they may have regarding my qualifications and fitness for employment. I will hold [Your Business], any former employers, educational institutions, and any other persons giving references free of liability for the exchange of this information and any other reasonable and necessary information incident to the employment process.

Signed: _______________________________________________

Date: _________________________________________________

Reprinted with permission. © CCH