South Jordan, UT asked in Employment Law for Utah

Q: Am I required to disclose my previous identity on job applications for the government?

Long story short, I was in a severe situation that required a safe at home program, confidential and sealed name change, as well as receiving a new SSN from the SSA. I haven't disclosed my previous identity on any job applications, as my case worker at the SSA advised, and haven't had any problems. But I am trying to apply for some government jobs in law enforcement and other areas, one being TSO right now. Should I disclose my previous identity on the background check? My caseworker advised against doing things like that to avoid my new identity being linked to my old identity, but I also don't want to get in trouble or fired if they find out.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Jefferson S Cannon
Jefferson S Cannon
Answered

A: If you have legally changed your name and are following the advice of your case worker then you may be ok but for law enforcement jobs a comprehensive background check is always performed. I don't know if they have special access to records that would allow them to conduct a deeper search of your background but they may be able to trace records that way. Another factor to consider would be whether there was anything from your past under the other identify that would disqualify you from that particular employment. If so, you should probably consult an employment lawyer for further direction.

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