Why Does My Background Check Say Delayed for a Gun?
If you’re planning to purchase a firearm in the United States, you’ll need to undergo a background check to ensure you’re eligible to own a gun. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for background checks to be delayed, leaving gun buyers in limbo. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your background check might be delayed for a gun purchase.
What Causes a Delayed Background Check for a Gun?
A delayed background check for a gun purchase can occur due to a variety of reasons. Here are some common causes:
- Database Errors: Technical issues within the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) database can cause delays. These errors can be due to system overload, software glitches, or issues with data migration.
- Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Missing or incorrect information provided by the gun dealer or the individual submitting the application can lead to delays.
- Prior Arrest or Conviction: Certain criminal history, such as a prior arrest or conviction, can trigger a manual review by law enforcement, causing a delay.
- Active Warrants or Bench Warrants: Active warrants or bench warrants issued by courts can prevent the background check from being completed.
- National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Entry: Entry in the NCIC database for a reason such as an outstanding warrant, a conviction, or a restraining order can cause a delay.
- State and Local Data: Data discrepancies or incomplete information provided by state and local law enforcement agencies can contribute to delays.
- Gun Dealer Issues: Technical issues with the gun dealer’s FFL (Federal Firearms License) or inadequate documentation can lead to delays.
Who is Responsible for Conducting Background Checks?
Background checks for gun purchases are conducted by the FBI’s NICS Division, which is responsible for verifying the identity and eligibility of individuals attempting to purchase firearms. The NICS Division is part of the Bureau of Justice Statistics and is designed to ensure that firearms are not sold to individuals who are prohibited from owning them due to a felony conviction, mental health issues, or other legal restrictions.
What is the Process for Conducting a Background Check?
The background check process for gun purchases typically involves the following steps:
- Application Submission: The gun dealer submits the individual’s application and relevant documentation to the NICS Division.
- NICS Review: The NICS Division reviews the application and conducts a search of the database to verify the individual’s identity and eligibility.
- Background Check: The NICS Division conducts a background check by querying the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and other relevant databases.
- Manual Review: If any issues arise during the automated review, the NICS Division may conduct a manual review of the application to determine eligibility.
How Long Does a Background Check Typically Take?
Typically, background checks for gun purchases take minutes to hours to complete. However, delays can occur due to the various reasons mentioned earlier. According to the FBI, 99.5% of background checks are completed within 30 minutes, while 99.7% are completed within 1 hour.
What Can You Do if Your Background Check is Delayed?
If your background check is delayed, there are several steps you can take:
- Contact the Gun Dealer: Reach out to the gun dealer and ask them to follow up with the NICS Division to inquire about the status of the background check.
- Contact the NICS Division: You can contact the NICS Division directly to check on the status of your background check. You’ll need to provide your application number and a brief explanation of the issue.
- Check the NICS Status Check: You can check the NICS status check online to see if your background check is pending, approved, or denied.
- Gather Additional Information: If your background check is delayed due to incomplete or inaccurate information, gather additional documentation to provide to the NICS Division.
Conclusion
Background checks for gun purchases can be delayed due to various reasons, including database errors, incomplete or inaccurate information, and prior criminal history. While delays can be frustrating, it’s essential to remember that the purpose of background checks is to ensure public safety and prevent the sale of firearms to individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others. By understanding the background check process and the reasons for delays, you can better navigate the system and ensure a smooth and timely completion of your background check.
