Background Check Central Unit (BCCU) Information

Below you’ll find helpful information specific to the Background Check Central Unit (BCCU).

For definitions to common terms mentioned, please review our frequently asked questions glossary.

BCCU Contact Information

Office hours: 8am-4:30pm, Monday through Friday (except holidays)

  • Email – bccuinquiry@dshs.wa.gov
    Allow 1-2 business days for a response
  • Phone – 360-902-0299
    Phone support is available 9-11am, Monday through Friday (there are exceptions depending on availability)
  • Website – https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ffa/background-check-central-unit
    The BCCU website contains a lot of helpful information including an FAQ. BCCU regularly receives questions that are answered on their website. The BCCU recommends reviewing the website and FAQ’s before contacting them.

Submitting an Online Background Check Authorization Form

DSHS Background Check Authorization Form

Please review the Online Background Authorization Form Guide located on the BCCU website.

For help filling out the DSHS Background Check Authorization Form view the following instructional video.

If you are still having trouble, please email or call BCCU.

BCCU Can Also Assist with the Following

Please check with CDWA first. BCCU distributes the results to CDWA via the Background Check System (BCS). You can also check the BCCU website turnaround time page.

For fingerprint checks, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and FBI do not provide BCCU with exact turnaround times. Their turnaround times may vary due to the volume of fingerprints processed.

Although BCCU cannot tell an applicant if and when they need to have a new background check completed, BCCU staff can provide the date the last background check was completed. Staff will ask some questions to verify identity before providing this information over the phone or via email.

Applicants that have had a background check completed by BCCU can request a copy of their background check information by completing an Applicant Request for a Copy of Background Check Information Form.

BCCU does not have the ability to correct any errors that have been reported from outside sources. For example, if there is an incorrect charge on your Washington State Patrol Rap Sheet, you will need to contact the WSP directly. If there is an incorrect charge on your FBI Rap Sheet, you will need to contact the FBI as well as the agency (court, police department) who reported the arrest to the FBI.

Important: Applicants must have a copy of their results readily available in order for BCCU staff to assist. If you don’t have a copy, please obtain one by submitting the Applicant Request for a Copy of Background Check Information Form.

There are instances when BCCU requires additional information in order to complete the background check. BCCU may send an applicant a request for additional information and ask for court documents and/or an applicant affidavit. Please contact BCCU if you need assistance with these requests.

If you are having trouble scheduling a fingerprint appointment online or via phone, please contact BCCU for further assistance. BCCU may need to work with the fingerprint vendor to correct any issues.

For all other questions, please contact Consumer Direct Care Network Washington: 866-214-9899 or InfoCDWA@consumerdirectcare.com