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Record-clearing terms

Set-aside vs vacate vs seal vs expunge: what the terms actually do

Plain-English differences between common record-clearing terms used by supported states.

Direct answer

Expunge, seal, vacate, set aside, restrict, nondisclose, and limited access are not interchangeable. Each term comes from state law and controls who can see the record, what the court record says, and what proof you can use with background-check companies.

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Most important ruleUse the term your state uses
Common mistakeCalling every remedy expungement
Practical next stepMatch the remedy to the state and record

What each term usually means

  • Expunge: often means destroy, delete, or remove access, but the exact effect varies by state.
  • Seal: usually limits public access while some agencies may retain access.
  • Vacate: changes or withdraws a conviction in states like Washington for eligible cases.
  • Set aside: often changes the conviction status but may not erase the record, as in Arizona.
  • Restrict: Georgia's term for limiting access to eligible criminal history.
  • Nondisclosure or limited access: restricts public access under state-specific rules.

Why terminology affects SEO and applications

People search for expungement, but courts may use sealing, restriction, vacation, or set-aside. On applications, the precise order and state term can affect how you answer questions and what proof you attach.

How to choose the right path

  1. Identify your state and court.
  2. Confirm the final disposition.
  3. Match the case facts to the state remedy.
  4. Generate or gather the correct forms.
  5. Use the final order for background-check cleanup where appropriate.

When the term is not enough

A label alone does not answer immigration, licensing, firearms, school, or government-access questions. Those scenarios often need legal advice.

FAQ

Fast answers

Is set-aside the same as expungement?

No. In states like Arizona, set-aside has its own statutory effect and is different from sealing or marijuana expungement.

Is vacating a conviction the same as sealing it?

No. Washington vacation and record sealing are different concepts with different effects.

Which term should I use on Clean My Past?

Start with your state. The software uses the state-specific term after screening your facts.

Last reviewed 2026-06-03. Clean My Past is software, not a law firm. This guide is informational and is not legal advice. State laws, agency policies, platform rules, and consumer-reporting practices change, so confirm details on the official source before relying on them. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.