Live Scan fingerprinting has become a common requirement for background checks in Los Angeles. While the process itself is straightforward, understanding the associated fees can sometimes be confusing. One term that often pops up is the “billing number.” This blog post from Downtown Live Scan, conveniently located in Downtown Los Angeles, aims to clarify what a billing number is and how it impacts your Live Scan fees.
What is a Billing Number?
A billing number is a unique 6-digit code assigned by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to authorized agencies or organizations. This code allows these entities to be directly billed for government processing fees associated with Live Scans.
Does your agency have a billing number and you’d like to send your customers to our location for fingerprinting? Click here for corporate billing.
How Does a Billing Number Affect My Fees?
There are two main scenarios when a billing number might affect your fees:
- Requesting Agency Covers Fees: If the agency requesting your background check (employer, licensing board, etc.) has a billing number on file with the DOJ, they may choose to cover the government processing fees associated with your Live Scan. This would typically be reflected on the Live Scan request form you receive from the agency. In such cases, you would only be responsible for the Live Scan service fee charged by the Live Scan provider (Downtown Live Scan, for example).
- You Are Responsible for Fees: If the requesting agency doesn’t have a billing number on file with the DOJ, or if they don’t cover the government processing fees, then you, the applicant, will be responsible for the full cost of the Live Scan. This typically includes:
- Live Scan Service Fee: Charged by the Live Scan provider for their service (taking your fingerprints electronically).
- DOJ Processing Fee: A government fee charged by the California Department of Justice for processing your fingerprints.
- FBI Processing Fee (Optional): An additional fee charged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) if your background check requires an FBI fingerprint check.
What if I Don’t Have a Billing Number?
Don’t worry! Even if the requesting agency doesn’t have a billing number or doesn’t cover the fees, Downtown Live Scan in Downtown Los Angeles can still help. We offer transparent pricing and will clearly explain all associated fees before your appointment. We accept various payment methods to ensure a smooth and convenient process.
Tips for Understanding Your Live Scan Fees:
- Review the Live Scan Request Form: This form, typically provided by the requesting agency, may indicate whether they cover the government processing fees and, if so, might include their billing number.
- Ask the Requesting Agency: If unsure about who is responsible for the fees, contact the agency requesting your background check for clarification.
- Contact Downtown Live Scan: Our friendly staff at Downtown Live Scan in Los Angeles is always happy to answer your questions about Live Scan fees and can provide a detailed breakdown of costs based on your specific situation.
By understanding the role of billing numbers and how they impact your Live Scan fees, you can navigate the process with confidence. Downtown Live Scan in Downtown Los Angeles is committed to providing you with a clear and efficient Live Scan experience.