FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CORI BACKGROUND CHECKS

1. What is the meaning of CORI?

CORI stands for criminal offender record information.

2. Why must I have a CORI check?

The law of the Commonwealth mandates a CORI check on current volunteers and employees as well as qualified prospective employees and volunteers, prior to their service or employment, who have particular duties and responsibilities relative to children and youth, the elderly and/or disabled.

3. If I fill out a CORI form some place else, why do I have to fill one out for the Church?

Criminal offender record information may not be shared among entities certified to have access to CORI.

4. Why do I have to provide so much personal information on the CORI form?

The Commonwealth determines what information must appear on the CORI request form. The specific information ensures that the returned CORI belongs to the person who filled out the request form.

5. What type of government issued photographic identification must I present when I have my CORI information verified?

You may present a license from Massachusetts or another state, a passport, a Mass ID or other government issued picture identification documents.

6. What if I don’t have a picture ID?

If you do not have a government issued photo identification you may present a birth certificate or social security card. However, a notation must be made on the CORI form that you have no available photo identification.

7. Who will have access to my CORI results?

The staff of the Office for Background Screening is certified to have access to your CORI. They are bound by the law not to disclose your CORI information to any agency or person not authorized to receive CORI.