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Part of OPM's mission is to protect merit system hiring principles; ensure the suitability of Federal applicants, employees, and appointees; and conduct National Security Investigations on individuals who work in positions that require access to classified information.

OPM conducts background investigations for most Federal agencies and their contractors. Our history began with the creation of the Civil Service Commission (CSC), which was charged with ensuring the fitness of Federal employees. In 1953 when President Eisenhower signed Executive Order 10450, which gave OPM (then known as CSC) the authority to manage the Federal government's personnel security program.

Currently, we have a contract workforce of over 3,000 field investigators and over 150 Federal staff to oversee their work and develop policy.

What is the result of this dynamic combination? A highly-trained, motivated, and professional workforce that represents the very best of the American work ethic. We take pride in our team and the role we play in protecting the public trust and safeguarding our Nation. We are committed to providing our Federal agency customers with excellent service, premium investigation products, and industry-setting timeliness.

If you would like to know more about the background investigation process, please click here for some commonly asked questions. If you work for a Federal agency and would like to know what investigative products and services are available to you, please call (202) 606-1042 and you will be directed to your designated Investigation Program Specialist or click here to send us an email.

For information on our new automated personnel security forms, please click here or send an email to e-QIP@opm.gov.