Compliance
Caregiver Background Check Requirements: A Guide for Agencies
Most states require a criminal check before client contact, many fingerprint-based through the FBI. Five states' rules, FCRA steps, exclusion lists and rechecks.
Caregiver background check rules in Ohio
Last verified October 17, 2026 · All Ohio resources
Yes. Ohio requires a criminal background check before a caregiver works with clients, using fingerprints. Before hiring anyone for a direct care position, a home health agency must run a database review and then a fingerprint-based criminal records check. It may not employ a person found in the listed databases or convicted of a disqualifying offense under ORC 109.572, subject to exclusionary periods in OAC 3701-60-09.
What does the check include?
| Check required | Yes |
|---|---|
| Fingerprint-based | Yes |
| Registries named | System for Award Management excluded parties list; HHS OIG List of Excluded Individuals and Entities; Ohio registry of developmental disabilities employees; Ohio sex offender and child-victim offender database; Ohio state nurse aide registry (abuse, neglect, or misappropriation findings) |
| Rule | Ohio Rev. Code 3740.11; Ohio Admin. Code 3701-60-05 to 3701-60-09 |
What should you confirm with the state?
Companion-only services aren't named in the state's definition of nonmedical home health services; confirm with the Ohio Department of Health whether a companion-only agency needs a license. Agencies certified by the Ohio Department of Aging for Medicaid have separate training rules.
What other checks should you run?
Agencies that bill Medicaid or Medicare should also check the HHS Office of Inspector General exclusion list before hire and monthly, because payments for services by an excluded person can be recovered. If you use a background screening company, the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires written disclosure and the applicant's authorization first.
Sources
More for Ohio
Background checks by state: other states
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