What should I do if I fail the background check?

What should I do if I fail the background check?

  1. Begin by asking the FFL doing your transfer. What to do depends on how you “failed.”
  2. If your NICS check or state-run background check returns a response of "DENIED", and you believe you are not a “prohibited person” according to federal and state laws, you may appeal.
  3. The process to appeal depends on your state and the underlying cause of the denial response.
  4. A "DELAYED" response is inconvenient, but you may be able to take possession of the firearm within several days unless you are subsequently "DENIED". Again, the FFL that initiated your background check can advise you on how to proceed here.