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Decoding the Cost of Live Scan at UPS: A Comprehensive Guide

Let’s cut to the chase: the cost of a live scan at UPS varies, generally ranging from $25 to $50, excluding the fingerprinting service fee. This price covers the convenience fee charged by UPS for offering the service. However, it’s absolutely critical to understand that this is only the fee UPS charges for facilitating the process. You still need to factor in the actual fingerprinting service fee, which is determined by the requesting agency (like the Department of Justice, FBI, or your employer). This fee can range significantly, from $20 to upwards of $100 or more, depending on the level of background check required. Therefore, your total cost will be the UPS fee plus the agency fee.

Navigating the Live Scan Landscape at UPS

While UPS offers a convenient location for many services, including live scan fingerprinting, the key is understanding the cost structure. Let’s dive deeper into the nuances of this service and how to ensure you get the best possible experience, and avoid any unexpected sticker shock.

Understanding the Two-Part Cost Structure

As mentioned above, the cost isn’t a single, unified number. It’s a two-pronged approach:

UPS Service Fee: This is the fee UPS charges for providing the location, equipment, and personnel to perform the live scan. Think of it as a convenience fee. It typically falls in the $25-$50 range.
Agency Fee: This is the fee charged by the organization requesting the background check. It covers the cost of processing your fingerprints, conducting the background check, and providing the results. This fee is separate from the UPS fee and can vary greatly.

Factors Influencing the Total Cost

Several factors play a significant role in determining the final price you’ll pay for a live scan at UPS:

Requesting Agency: The fees levied by the DOJ, FBI, or other requesting entities directly impact your overall cost. Some agencies require more extensive background checks, which translates to higher fees.
Type of Background Check: Certain professions or situations require specific types of background checks. For instance, healthcare workers might need a different level of scrutiny than volunteers.
Location: While the UPS service fee tends to be relatively consistent, prices can fluctuate slightly based on location due to regional operating costs. Always call ahead to confirm.
Third-Party Providers: Many UPS stores partner with third-party fingerprinting vendors. The agreements between UPS and these vendors can influence the final cost.

Preparing for Your Live Scan Appointment

Before you head to UPS for your live scan, a little preparation can save you time and money:

Contact the Requesting Agency: The most important step is to contact the agency requiring the live scan. Get the exact fee amount and any specific instructions, including the Live Scan form or Request for Live Scan Service form.
Verify UPS Location: Not all UPS stores offer live scan services. Use the UPS website to locate a participating store near you. Call ahead to confirm their hours and any specific requirements they might have.
Gather Required Documents: Typically, you’ll need a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) and the Live Scan form provided by the requesting agency. Make sure you have originals – copies are generally not accepted.
Payment Methods: Confirm which payment methods the UPS store accepts. Credit cards, debit cards, and cash are usually accepted, but it’s always best to verify beforehand.

Live Scan FAQs: Unveiling the Details

Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you navigate the live scan process at UPS:

1. Is the UPS fee refundable if my fingerprints are rejected?

The UPS service fee itself is generally non-refundable. If your fingerprints are rejected due to technical issues during the scan (e.g., smudging, poor image quality), the vendor will typically retake them at no additional charge. However, the agency fee may still apply for resubmission depending on their specific policies.

2. How long does a live scan appointment at UPS take?

The actual fingerprinting process usually takes 15-30 minutes. However, allow for additional time for paperwork, payment, and potential waiting. It’s always a good idea to arrive a few minutes early.

3. Can I schedule a live scan appointment online at UPS?

Currently, most UPS stores do not offer online appointment scheduling for live scan services. The best way to schedule an appointment is to call the specific UPS store directly and inquire about their availability.

4. What happens after my live scan is completed?

The fingerprints are electronically transmitted to the designated agency (e.g., DOJ, FBI). The agency then processes the fingerprints and conducts the background check. You will typically receive the results from the requesting agency, not UPS.

5. How long does it take to receive my background check results?

Processing times vary significantly depending on the agency and the complexity of the background check. It can range from a few days to several weeks. Check with the requesting agency for their estimated processing time.

6. Do I need a Live Scan form to get fingerprinted at UPS?

Yes, absolutely. The Live Scan form, or Request for Live Scan Service form, is essential. This form contains the specific codes and information required to transmit your fingerprints to the correct agency and for the correct purpose. Get this form before going to UPS.

7. Can I use a live scan for multiple purposes?

Generally, no. Each live scan is typically conducted for a specific purpose and directed to a specific agency. If you need a background check for multiple purposes, you will likely need to undergo separate live scan procedures.

8. What if my fingerprints are rejected by the DOJ or FBI?

If your fingerprints are rejected, the requesting agency will notify you. You will likely need to get re-fingerprinted. As stated earlier, the UPS service fee for the initial scan is usually non-refundable, but the vendor should offer a free rescan. The agency may or may not charge an additional fee for reprocessing.

9. Are there alternative locations for live scan fingerprinting besides UPS?

Yes, there are. Many other locations offer live scan services, including authorized fingerprinting vendors, law enforcement agencies, and some government offices. Researching alternative options can sometimes lead to lower costs or more convenient scheduling.

10. Can I get my fingerprints taken for personal reasons at UPS?

UPS typically only provides live scan services for authorized purposes, such as employment, licensing, or background checks mandated by an agency. You can not get your fingerprints taken for personal reasons like keepsake or personal identification.

11. Does UPS offer ink fingerprinting services?

No. UPS primarily offers electronic live scan fingerprinting. If you need ink fingerprinting (for example, for an out-of-state requirement), you’ll need to find a different provider.

12. What should I do if I have questions about the live scan process?

The best approach is to contact the requesting agency directly. They can provide specific guidance on the requirements, fees, and processing times associated with your particular background check. Also, call the UPS store beforehand to confirm their hours of operation and the cost of the service.

Ultimately, the cost of a live scan at UPS is a composite figure. By understanding the factors that influence the price and diligently preparing for your appointment, you can navigate the process with confidence and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to understanding the intricacies of background checks.