We’re introducing background checks as part of our continued commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment for students, educators, volunteers, and partners.

Because we work in schools and community spaces, background checks are a common expectation—and in many cases a requirement—from our partner organizations. This step helps us continue building trust and ensures we’re meeting the standards of the communities we serve.

A background check is one part of our volunteer screening process. It provides an added layer of confidence for schools and partners so we can continue placing volunteers in classrooms and community settings safely and responsibly.

Yes. Background checks are a standard practice across the nonprofit and education sectors, especially for organizations working directly with students or vulnerable populations.

Yes. Even if you’ve completed a background check for your employer, we still ask volunteers to complete one specifically for Financial Beginnings.

Background checks are tailored to the needs of the organization requesting them. An employer background check is designed to meet that organization’s specific requirements and risk considerations. Our volunteer background check is designed specifically for the context of our programs. It supports safe, consistent standards for volunteers working in classrooms and community settings with students and partner organizations.

We use Coeus Global, a secure background check provider, to complete this process (you can learn more at coeusglobal.com). Their “Standard Volunteer” screening includes verifying identity through a Social Security number trace, conducting a nationwide criminal history search, and checking national sex offender registries.

When you opt in, you will receive a secure link from Coeus Global to begin the background check process. As part of that process, you will be presented with disclosure and consent information. By entering your information and continuing through the process, you are providing affirmative consent for the background check to be completed.

Financial Beginnings covers the full cost of the background check. If you are in a position to contribute, there is also an option to support this cost, which helps us continue offering programs as a nonprofit.

It’s simple. You’ll opt in using a link we provide. After that, Coeus Global will send you an email with next steps to complete the process.

Most background checks are completed within 2–5 business days once submitted. See below for timing details based on when you joined Financial Beginnings. You’ll receive a follow-up once your background check has been processed so you know your status and next steps.

The timing of your background check depends on when you joined Financial Beginnings:

• For current volunteers (trained before April 20, 2026)

  Once you opt in, most background checks are completed within 2–5 business days.

• For new volunteers (trained after April 20, 2026)

  After completing orientation, you will receive an invitation to opt in within about 10 days. Once you complete that step, the background check typically takes an additional 2–5 business days to process.

After completing an orientation, you will receive an invitation to opt in to a background check. Once you opt in, it may take between 5-10 days for your background check to process and receive an invite to create your volunteer account on financialbeginngs.org.

Volunteers will have 30 days from the initial communication to opt in and begin the process.

If you do not opt in within the 30-day window, your volunteer status will be removed and your access to the volunteer portal will be discontinued. You are always welcome to rejoin in the future by opting in and completing the background check at that time.

Yes. You can rejoin at any time by opting in and completing the background check process.

No. Your volunteer access and status will remain unchanged during the opt-in period and while you complete the background check process.

We’re here to help. If anything comes up or you’re unsure about the process, please reach out to a Financial Beginnings contact you know or email us at info@financialbeginnings.org.