Background check for Big 4

Question

I recently received an offer to work as an intern at EY, but I'm a little worried about the background check process. I have two unpaid internships on my resume, and I'm not sure how verification works since I don't have W-2s. Would an offer letter and a reference from my manager be sufficient?

Also, the dates for one of my internships on my resume are May–July, but I actually worked there from June–August. Should I contact my recruiter about this or just provide the correct dates during the background check?

Just a little stressed about the whole process and would appreciate any advice!

Answer 1

Hey there :)

I wouldn’t worry too much. Unpaid internships can usually be verified without W2s. An offer letter, internship certificate or confirmation from HR, and a reference from your manager can all help. If they ask for additional documentation, just explain that the internships were unpaid.

Regarding the dates, I’d proactively let your recruiter know that you noticed a small mistake and provide the correct June to August dates. It’s much better to clarify this upfront than have a discrepancy come up during the background check. These things happen, and being transparent is what matters.

Good luck with the new role!

Best, Alessa :)

Answer 2

Hi there,

Based on how you describe the situation I wouldn't be stressed. The differences are minor and easy to explain.

So relax and if you are asked to clarify you can just share what you shared here in your message.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the offer from EY!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

First of all, there is no need to worry about the missing W-2s. Unpaid internships are verified all the time, and an offer letter together with a confirmation from your former manager is usually enough. If the background check provider needs anything else, they will simply ask you for it.
Moreover, I would strongly advise you to contact your recruiter now and to tell them about the wrong dates before the background check starts. It is a small mistake, but it looks much better when it comes from you than when somebody else finds it.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 4

Hi there,

Congrats on the offer!

You should be just fine. The worst case scenario is the background check comes up blank and you have to prove you did that work. That could be emails, etc.

It should be ok. If you are concerned you can reach out and let them know you have just realized a mistake you made. That said, I personally wouldn't do anything. If there is any sort of issue, they will check.

Ultimately, they care if you lie about a role or company or degree. (As in, you didn't even work/school there). They don't care if you're a month off.