Due to limited funding for volunteer onboarding, volunteers are responsible for completing and paying for their own federal fingerprint-based background check through the FBI’s Identity History Summary process. The cost is a flat $18, which covers the FBI processing fee only.
Visit the FBI’s official portal at edo.cjis.gov to begin your application. If you have a current background check completed within the past 6 months, and no criminal activity has occurred since then, you don’t need to obtain a new copy. Background summary reports more than 6 months old will not be accepted. The summary must contain both state & federal checks and you need to submit a copy of the results.
Provide your name, email, and payment of $18 online (credit card or money order).
You’ll receive a PIN and confirmation link by email to access your report later.
Fingerprints must be submitted after registration—either:
Electronically at participating USPS locations (if available near you), or
Via a standard fingerprint card mailed to the FBI, following instructions on the site.
Results typically take a few days to a few weeks, with electronic submissions often processed more quickly.
You may choose to receive your results electronically (downloadable) or via U.S. mail. Once received, please upload a copy of your report in the application form.
The $18 FBI fee is your responsibility, which helps Wind Haven stay focused on serving more survivors.
Additional fingerprinting service fees (typically $40–$60) may apply depending on where you go.
If you’re unable to pay, the FBI offers a fee waiver in certain situations—check their site for details.
Your fingerprint card will not be returned—this is standard FBI policy.
Wind Haven does not receive your background check directly. You will receive it and submit a copy as part of your application to a secure email address.
Volunteers are responsible for completing their own FBI background check, and while Wind Haven cannot cover these costs due to limited funding, there are several affordable options. Many local police or sheriff’s departments offer free or low-cost fingerprinting for volunteers—some may waive fees ($5–$15) if you mention you’re serving a nonprofit. You can also check with county offices, public libraries, or local colleges with criminal justice programs, as they sometimes provide free fingerprinting services for training purposes.
Occasionally, job fairs, churches, or community events may offer free fingerprinting or background check stations. In some areas, Live Scan centers offer nonprofit fee waivers, though this is less common in Georgia. Keep in mind that USPS kiosks and private Live Scan vendors typically charge $40–$90 on top of the $18 FBI fee. We recommend calling ahead to ask about discounts or waivers for nonprofit volunteers.
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