Overview
In a world where information is paramount, selecting the right background check service is crucial for making informed decisions.
Whether you’re a business aiming to hire the best talent or an individual seeking clarity on personal connections, the landscape of background check services is vast.
This blog post dives into the top contenders and analyzes their features and reliability to guide you in choosing the best background check service for employers.
Background Check Companies
Each of the following companies plays a crucial role in the background check industry, offering various services tailored to the needs of businesses and government entities.
Users can choose from a range of options based on the depth and scope of information required for their specific purposes.
- BeenVerified: BeenVerified offers a user-friendly platform for accessing public records, background checks, and people search services, making it easy to gather information about individuals.
- GoodHire: GoodHire specializes in employment background checks, offering businesses a reliable solution to assess the criminal, credit, and employment history of potential hires.
- Checkr, Inc.: Checkr is a background check company focused on providing modern and technology-driven solutions for employment screening, helping businesses make informed hiring decisions.
- HireRight: HireRight is a global background screening company that offers a range of services, including employment verification, criminal background checks, and drug testing.
- AccurateNow: AccurateNow is a background check service that caters to small and medium-sized businesses, providing quick and reliable information on criminal records and employment history.
- PeopleFinders.com: PeopleFinders.com is an online service providing background checks, public records, and people search services, making it easy for users to find and verify information.
- First Advantage: First Advantage is a global background check company that specializes in employment screening, offering services such as criminal background checks, drug testing, and identity verification.
- Universal Background Check: Universal Background Check is a generic term referring to comprehensive background checks that cover various aspects, often used in the context of firearm purchase regulations.
- E-Verify Background Checks: E-Verify is a government-operated system in the United States used by employers to verify the employment eligibility of their workers, checking against government databases.
- OIG Background Checks: OIG (Office of Inspector General) background checks are specific screenings to ensure individuals are not excluded from participating in federally funded healthcare programs.
- BackgroundChecks.com: BackgroundChecks.com is an online platform offering a wide range of background check services, including criminal history, employment verification, and credit checks.
- CheckPeople.com: CheckPeople.com provides online background checks, allowing users to access public records, criminal history, and other information to learn more about individuals.
Are There Free Background Checks?
Yes, free background checks are available, but they typically have limitations compared to paid services. Here are common ways to obtain free background checks:
- Online Search Engines: Conducting a basic search on popular search engines can yield information about an individual. However, the results may be scattered, and the accuracy and comprehensiveness can vary.
- Social Media Platforms: Many individuals share personal information on social media. While not a formal background check, reviewing someone’s profile on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter can provide insights.
- Government Websites: Some government agencies provide access to certain public records for free. Examples include court records, marriage records, and property records. However, the availability and ease of access vary by jurisdiction.
- Local Law Enforcement Agencies: Some law enforcement agencies may provide limited information about individuals, such as sex offender registries, for free on their websites.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Some nonprofit organizations offer limited background check services for free. These services may focus on specific aspects, such as criminal records or sex offender registries.
It’s essential to note that free background checks often lack the depth of paid services.
Paid background check services, such as those provided by companies like GoodHire, Checkr, or BeenVerified, offer more comprehensive and up-to-date information. They may include criminal records, employment history, credit reports, and other relevant details.
Users should carefully consider their specific needs and the reliability of the information required when deciding between free and paid background check options. Additionally, users should be mindful of privacy laws and regulations when conducting background checks.
What Is The Best Background Check Service For Employment?
When companies team up with a CRA (Consumer Reporting Agency) to do background checks before hiring, they usually save time and money compared to doing it themselves.
This is because CRAs use advanced technology and tools to make the process smoother.
They have features like API technology, which helps connect different systems, customizable workflows that can be adjusted to the company’s needs, and analytics tools to analyze information.
CRAs are good at providing accurate reports, which is a big benefit. However, it’s essential for companies working with a CRA to follow the rules.
These rules include federal, state, and local fair hiring laws, like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
So, it’s crucial to pick a trustworthy background check service provider that complies with FCRA to make sure everything is done the right way.
Here, we explore some of the best background check services for employers, considering features, compliance, and pricing.
| Background Check Provider | Key Features | Pricing |
| AccurateNow | – Affordable FCRA-compliant checks for small to mid-sized businesses – Pay-as-you-go packages with DIY options – API and ATS integrations | Packages range from $30.99 to $77.57 per screening; $25 set-up fee |
| Certn | – FCRA- and GDPR-compliant checks for global enterprises – Self-service option (CertnLime) for small businesses – Tenant checks and mobile app | Contact for a quote; Certn Lime: Varies |
| Checkr | – FCRA-compliant and PBSA-accredited – Over 100 screening options – Customizable packages with no minimums – Automated workflows and ATS integration | Pre-set packages start at $29.99 per check |
| First Advantage | – Wide range of checks for various industries – Mobile app for an applicant-first experience – Data analytics and diagnostic dashboards | Small business packages start at $29/candidate; Contact for larger business quotes |
| HireRight | – FCRA-compliant checks for various industries – Self-service option through Backgroundchecks.com – Mobile app and industry-specific packages | Self-service packages start at $33.15; Contact for larger business quotes |
| Sterling | – FCRA-compliant global screenings – API integration and scalability – Ongoing monitoring and industry-specific solutions | Contact Sterling for a quote |
| ShareAble | – Owned by TransUnion, FCRA-compliant checks – Three package options with quick results – No membership subscriptions or monthly fees | Packages range from $25 to $60 per screening |
*Note: Prices and features are subject to change, and it’s recommended to contact the providers directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Background Checks Regulations
When companies work with a consumer reporting agency to check the backgrounds of potential employees before hiring, they need to follow certain rules.
One important rule is called the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which is a federal law. The FCRA makes sure that background checks are done fairly.
Under this law, employers must let candidates know in writing that they plan to do a background check, get the candidate’s written permission, and provide a summary of the candidate’s rights.
If a candidate is not hired because of something found in the background check, employers have to follow specific steps known as the adverse action process.
If employers decide to check backgrounds themselves by going to the county courthouse or using online public court databases, the FCRA rules do not apply.
Apart from the FCRA, there are also state and local rules called “ban-the-box” laws. These laws aim to protect candidates from unfair treatment during the hiring process.
They stop employers from asking about a person’s criminal history until a certain point in the hiring process, usually after a first interview or a conditional job offer.
To make sure everything is done correctly, it’s best to use a background check service that follows the FCRA rules and supports compliance with all the applicable laws. This way, employers can be sure they are doing the right thing and treating everyone fairly.
What Are The Best Background Check Service Companies For Individuals?
Background checks are valuable not only for employment but also for personal reasons.
Individuals often use these checks when searching for potential dates or reconnecting with long-lost friends and relatives.
It’s essential to note that consumer background checks for personal use are typically not FCRA-compliant and should not be used for employment or tenant screenings.
Read in-depth about the best background check service for individuals after the link jump.
What Does A Background Check Cost?
The cost of a background check can fluctuate based on multiple factors, such as the type of check, the depth of information needed, and the service provider.
From the estimates provided earlier, the cost starts at around $30 per report. However, it’s crucial to note that this is a generalization, and actual costs may differ.
Some companies offer monthly subscription plans for less than that. It’s important to be aware that some services are not FCRA-compliant and are not intended for employment purposes.
While they may provide valuable information for personal use, they may not meet the legal requirements necessary for employment-related background checks.
When conducting background checks for employment purposes, choosing a service that adheres to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to ensure compliance with relevant regulations is advisable.
Conclusion
Choosing the best background check service is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It hinges on the nature of your requirements, like employment screening.
With the insights provided on various services, consider the features, pricing, and compliance factors that matter most to you.
Make an informed decision, ensuring the background check service you choose aligns with your hiring goals.
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