MN Netstudy 2.0 Background Check

Instructions & FAQ 

The state of Minnesota requires that all support workers under self-directed services are required to complete a state run background check and fingerprinting before working. This page is meant to be a guide and resource for information regarding the background check.

You will have received an email from an HR representative with Consumer Directions with the next steps to complete your background check. In this email you will find 2 steps that must get completed before the due date:

Step 1: Complete your Consent and Disclosure form

You will receive an email from the MN Department of Human Services (DHS) called "ACTION REQUIRED- Your background study request has been submitted - NETStudy2"

The email will look like this:

You will copy the application number and open the link. The link will open the DHS website to this page:

Put in your application number, last name, date of birth, and press "start disclosure"

Continue through the disclosure as instructed.

Step 2: Complete your finger printing

The state conducts it's fingerprinting through IdentoGo. You will receive an email from them called "IdentoGO Service Confirmation - MN DHS Background Study" The email will look like this:

Follow the highlighted link to set up your appointment at the most convenient location for you.

Important: its better to schedule your fingerprinting as soon as possible to avoid accidentally missing your fingerprinting deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

When the state of MN issues a background check, it's run through a system called NetStudy 2.0.

Yes, you need to have an appointment at an approved IdentoGo location. You can schedule the appointment using the link at the bottom of the email you received called "IdentoGO Service Confirmation - MN DHS Background Study"

If you are having trouble scheduling your appointment online, you can call 844-556-8505 to schedule it over the phone.

In the event that an applicant misses their deadline to complete either or both of the fingerprinting or consent and disclosure, the state automatically cancels the background check. To issue a new background check, the applicant would be responsible for paying the associated $54.50 processing fees. This can be paid to Consumer Directions by check or online. 

You will receive an email from MN DHS about creating an applicant account. The account is where you will access your clearance letter or any other documents created in relation to your background check. While the account is not required to complete your background check, the state recommends creating one. 

You will want to bring the following items to your fingerprinting appointment:

  1. Your ID's that you selected when making your appointment.
  2. Your payment code found in the email we sent to you called "Important Next Steps for Your Background Check"

Tip: Plan on arriving 15-20 minutes early to make sure you do not miss your appointment time. Your IdentoGO location may be found inside a different business.

If an applicant has had qualifying fingerprints that have been taken recently enough, MN DHS will use those fingerprints. However, we understand that some applicants will still have to complete fingerprinting again. This is due to several different reasons outside Consumer Direction's control. Common examples include but are not limited to fingerprints done through a different system or for a different clearance level. If the state determines that fingerprinting is required, then it must be completed by the due date regardless. 

You can schedule your appointment over the phone directly with IdentoGO by calling 844-556-8505.

While the account is not necessary to complete your background check, you can view a video on how to set up your account and access documents by following this link here. If you are struggling to set up your account or have additional questions, you can call the NetStudy division at 651-431-6620 to resolve those issues.