My BI started about 12 months ago. I saw some progress during the first few months. I haven't heard anything yet. How long does it usually take? I've read on this form some stories BI taking up to 12 months. How do you check the status of the background check. 
This is for a support postion. I received my conditional offer before the poly and drug test. 


Thanks.

More than likely the delay is due to other factors that are out of your control such as budget, hiring freezes, vacancy being filled, waiting for the new years budget in October.

All in all the federal gov't is VERY slow at getting things done.

No news is usually good news.

Dear LaPiovra,

I am aware of some cases that took close to two years to adjudicate their background investigations.   As long as your conditional letter of appointment is not recinded, you should get the job.  You are going through the hardest part now.   

Regards.

The thing about FBI background checks is that they are usually conducted by FBI agents.  I know that most OPM background checks that are contracted out to private companies run in the range of 5-10 thousand dollars and these investigators are paid peanuts($12-$15/hr) compared to what a GS-13 FBI agent makes ($35 to $46/hr), so yes, it does seem very possible that an FBI background from start to finish can run as high as 20 thousand dollars.
Between tracking down all your references, employers, making phone calls, typing up reports, support staff that FBI employs and all the other factors that are involved in an investigation, it adds up pretty quickly.