I am searching for a new job and I know some employers do background checks, so I was wondering if they are capable of finding out how much I used to make hourly. Can I put that I made more than I really did?

That would not come out from a background check, but it might come out from a reference check. Your old job may reveal the info or they may only confirm employment dates.

But one should never lie on an employment application.

I wouldn't advise it. They have a way of finding out anything they want to now.
What would be the benefit anyway?

A former employer who would be listed on your application could report your earnings to a prospective employer. Why would you want to report a higher wage anyway?--to look more important than you were? In hopes that the prospective employer will pay you more?

Please don't lie on a job application or on a resume. It will only backfire on you.

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Originally Posted by ixr687

I am searching for a new job and I know some employers do background checks, so I was wondering if they are capable of finding out how much I used to make hourly. Can I put that I made more than I really did?

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Depending on the background check, yes they can find out; why would you claim more than you actually made?

Lie on the application and you could find yourself fired with cause - no unemployment insurance - at some point in the future.

This is easy, when you apply for a job you allow them to check with prior places where you work, they merely call and ask when you worked, what you did, and how much you make, most likely most places check that.