Published in cooperation between Levitated Media and the Gilroy Dispatch
Let’s face it, renting out your apartment or trusting a potential nanny with your kids can be nerve-wracking. Sure, “Michael” seems great on paper, but that lingering doubt whispers—is there more to the story?
Background checks are your answer. Forget fancy detective work—these online services act like a modern truth serum, revealing past addresses, previous jobs, social media history and more.
Essentially, they paint a complete picture, helping you make informed decisions about who you’re dealing with. With a ton of background check sites available, choosing the right one can be confusing. Here’s where this guide comes in!
We’ll provide the top sites, and answer any questions you might have regarding the best background check sites.
Best Background Check Sites: First Look
- TruthFinder—Best Background Check Site Overall
- BeenVerified—Best for User-Friendly Interface
- Instant Checkmate—Best for Unlimited Reports
- The Justice Collaborative—Best for Free Public Records Search
- Intelius—Best Background Check Site With A Trial Period
- PeopleFinders—Best for Quick Searches
- US Search—Best for affordability
- Checkr—Best Background Check Site For Employers
- TransUnion SmartMove—Best for Fast and Reliable Tenant Screening
TruthFinder—Best Background Check Site Overall
- Extensive public record searches
- Easy-to-use interface
- Offers additional deep web scans
- Accessible via Android and iOS apps
- Continuous report updates are available
- Includes connections such as potential relatives and associates in reports
Cons
- Charges may apply for report downloads
- May take some time to compile detailed reports
Launched in 2015, TruthFinder has grown into a well-known name for in-depth background checks. The service goes beyond basic data, offering comprehensive reports that could reveal a person’s contact details, known addresses, criminal, searching public records alone and more.
It’s important to note that TruthFinder works on a subscription model, meaning there’s a fee for ongoing access to reports.
Why TruthFinder Stands Out
Its ability to unearth extensive details sets TruthFinder apart. Whether it’s finding old classmates or checking someone’s history, TruthFinder provides a wide array of information.
TruthFinder’s subscription model is straightforward: pay a monthly fee and get unlimited access to background reports. This way, users can run multiple checks without worrying about individual report charges. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
- One month of unlimited reports: $28.05 per month
- Three months of unlimited reports (billed every two months for Power Users): $23.28 per month
Types of Checks Offered
- Criminal record searches
- Reverse phone number lookup
- Basic contact information
- Verification of education and employment history
- Examination of social media presence
TruthFinder Reputation
TruthFinder has garnered a strong reputation with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and generally high customer satisfaction ratings on independent websites.
BeenVerified-Best for User-Friendly Interface
- Simple to use and navigate
- Dark web scanning add-on
- Fast report generation
- Toll-free customer support
- Accessible mobile app for searches anytime, anywhere
Cons
- Pricier compared to some other options
- Some in-depth information may incur additional charges
Since its inception in 2007, BeenVerified has aimed to provide accessible background check services. Headquartered in New York, the company offers a range of search options, from criminal records to property histories.
Membership is required to utilize the full suite of services, and some additional reports may have extra fees.
Why Been Verified Stands Out
Been Verified is recognized for its commitment to a hassle-free user experience, ensuring that even those new to background checks can navigate its services with ease.
The service operates on a subscription basis. Users can opt for a monthly membership to conduct unlimited searches without per-report fees.
- One-month subscription: $23.99 per month
- Three months subscription: $19.19 per month
Types of Checks Offered
- Criminal records and arrest history
- Searches for email addresses and social networks
- Property ownership records
- Vehicle history reports
BeenVerified Reputation
BeenVerified generally receives favorable reviews for its straightforward interface and customer service. On Trustpilot, the company has 1952 reviews with 43 percent of these being 5-star reviews.
Instant Checkmate—Best for Unlimited Reports
- Unlimited reports for subscribers
- Deep web monitoring is available
- A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- User-friendly interface
- Provides detailed personal information and possible connections
Cons
- No option for a single report purchase
- Faced an FTC lawsuit alleging FCRA violations and deceptive marketing practices
Instant Checkmate offers an extensive search service that’s particularly useful if you have multiple inquiries. Since its inception, it has provided users with thorough reports containing a wide array of personal information.
Critics have taken notice of its comprehensive approach, granting it an A+ rating from the BBB. It’s also worth noting that the service is based on a subscription model, so you’ll need to commit to at least a month to use it.
Why Instant Checkmate Stands Out
The service is praised for offering unlimited reports on a subscription basis, which sets it apart from the competition that often limits the number of reports you can run. This could be a game-changer if you’re someone who needs to conduct multiple checks.
For pricing, you’re looking at:
- Person Reports: $35.12 a month or $28.09 a month for a 3-month membership
- Reverse Phone Lookup: $5.99 a month
- Downloading reports incurs an additional one-time fee of $3.99.
>>> Visit Instant Checkmate <<<
Types of Checks Offered
Instant Checkmate’s services aren’t just limited to standard background checks. They offer:
- Criminal records
- Former addresses
- Marriage and divorce records
- Information on relatives
- Data on registered assets
Instant Checkmate Reputation
BBB has given Instant Checkmate an A+ rating, although the service has faced legal scrutiny for alleged FCRA violations.
The Justice Collaborative—Best for Free Public Records Search
- Rich source of legal and policy information
- Offers unique insights into the justice system
- Provides valuable resources for legal professionals and advocates
- Easy and fast screening
Cons
- Not a traditional background check service
- Public records search only
The Justice Collaborative offers a valuable resource for conducting quick and reliable background checks, distinguishing itself despite not being a widely recognized brand in this market. Whether you’re researching someone else or evaluating your own online presence, this platform provides essential assistance.
Moreover, it serves as a trustworthy source for exploring various legal topics of interest, ensuring you find accurate and relevant information to support your inquiries.
Why The Justice Collaborative Stands Out
The Justice Collaborative stands out compared to other services due to its extensive legal and policy research resources, which enable a deep understanding of complex issues.
The website offers valuable insights into public records and legal matters, making it a reliable source of information. Additionally, it provides educational content and analysis on justice-related issues, contributing to greater public awareness and understanding.
>>> Visit The Justice Collaborative <<<
Types of Checks Offered
- Criminal records
- Phone numbers
- Addresses
- Employment history
- Information on relatives
- Social media profiles
The Justice Collaborative Reputation
The website has a great reputation for being a source of legal information and being managed by experts in the field.
Intelius—Best Background Check Site With A Trial Period
- Offers detailed reports
- Multiple search parameters are available
- Five-day $0.95 trial for people search and reverse phone lookup
- Mobile app highly rated by users
- Long-standing reputation in the industry
Cons
- Can be pricey
- Some reports may lack current phone numbers or dates of birth
Intelius has been a player in the background check industry since 2003, offering a range of searches from criminal records to social media profiles. With a solid reputation and a focus on providing detailed reports, it is a favored choice for many users. The service is not the cheapest on the market, but it compensates with the depth of information provided.
Why Intelius Stands Out
Intelius is recognized for its transparency and the variety of information it offers. From family members to historical addresses and even step-relatives, Intelius provides a comprehensive view of the person you’re searching for.
Intelius service may cost approximately $24.86 per month for unlimited, best background check service, reports and contact information. Unlocking premium data, such as criminal records, may require an additional fee of around $14.
Types of Checks Offered
The checks available from Intelius include:
- Background checks
- Criminal records
- Public Records
- Reverse phone lookup
- People search
Intelius Reputation
Intelius has a fair mix of favorable reviews with an A+ accreditation from the BBB.
PeopleFinders—Best for Quick Searches
- Fast access to public records
- Offers single reports for one-time needs
- Established in 1999, with a wealth of experience
- User-friendly interface, even for beginners
- Varied search options, from background checks to reverse phone lookups
Cons
- Membership needed for best value
- Occasional reports of outdated data
PeopleFinders has been unlocking the secrets of public records since 1999, making it a veteran in the background check arena.
Their mission is simple: to help you find people and learn about their backgrounds quickly and easily.
They’ve got a substantial user base that relies on them for up-to-date information, which ranges from contact details to past connections.
Why PeopleFinders Stands Out
What sets PeopleFinders apart is their speed. Need a quick check on someone? This site delivers results fast. And they’re not just fast; they’re detailed, too, giving you more than just the basics.
Their pricing is pretty straightforward. You can snag a single report if that’s all you need, or go for a subscription if you’re in it for the long haul. Prices typically hover around $24.95 for a one-month subscription, but always check for the latest deals.
Types of Checks Offered
- Detailed background checks
- Criminal records
- Reverse phone lookups
- Address searches
PeopleFinders Reputation
Users have commended PeopleFinders for its speedy service and ease of use, earning the site an average rating of 4.6 out of 2500+ reviews on Trustpilot.
US Search—Best for affordability
- In-depth information provided in reports
- Wide range of search types is available
- Straightforward website, easy navigation
- Offers detailed property records
- Affordable reports at just $19.86 per month
Cons
- Subscription recommended for multiple searches
- Additional fees for more in-depth data
Since 1994, US Search has been helping individuals uncover comprehensive information about others.
This company excels in providing detailed reports that cover everything from criminal histories to property to search public records here. They’ve built a solid reputation for thoroughness, which is why so many users turn to them for their background check needs.
Why US Search Stands Out
US Search dives deep. If you need more than just a cursory glance at someone’s past, they’re the site to visit. Their comprehensive reports are top-notch and can give you the full picture.
- Unlimited Background Checks: Subscribe for just $19.86 per month.
- Phone Number Searches: Detailed reports are included with a monthly subscription of $19.86, plus an optional $1.99 trial for five days.
- Address Lookups: Access complete reports for $19.86 monthly, with a five-day trial available at $1.99.
Types of Checks Offered
- Thorough background checks
- Criminal history reports
- Court records
- Property ownership details
- Reverse phone number and address lookups
US Search Reputation
US Search is a subsidiary of Intelius, which boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Checkr-Best Background Check Site For Employers
- Highly customizable API for seamless integration
- Over 100 pre-built integrations with various systems
- User-friendly self-service dashboard with customizable workflows
- AI-powered technology for efficient screenings
- Compliance tools to assist with legal requirements
Cons
- Report turnaround time can be longer than competitors
- Some features may have additional costs
Checkr, founded in 2014, revolutionized the employment background check service by focusing on a modern approach that accommodates rapid changes in the workforce. Interestingly, their clients include gig economy giants such as Lyft and Uber.
It offers a range of checks from criminal to continuous checks, catering to the gig, marketplace, technology, staffing, retail, hospitality, healthcare and food services industries, among others.
Checkr is recognized for its Editors’ Choice award by PCMag, indicating a product that has made significant contributions to its field and is of high quality.
Why Checkr Stands Out
Checkr’s standout features include its AI-powered core, which streamlines the background check process, and its emphasis on integration, with an API designed to fit effortlessly into a company’s existing applicant tracking or HR system.
Checkr offers competitive pricing with its most standard screenings priced at $35. Prices for other services vary, such as $10 for a Federal Criminal Records Search and up to $1250 for Employment Verification checks. They also have a subscription service, Continuous Crim, which is $170 per check.
Types of Checks Offered
Checkr provides a comprehensive range over a decade of checks, including:
- Criminal background checks
- Employment verification
- Driving record (MVR) checks
- DOT checks
- Credit background checks
- Drug testing
- Health screening
- Education verification
- International background checks
- Professional license verification
Checkr Reputation
Checkr has earned an Editors’ Choice award from PCMag, which notes a 4.0 rating for its excellent service and innovative features.
TransUnion SmartMove-Best for Fast, Reliable and Comprehensive Tenant Screening
- Quick results, often within minutes
- Compliant with applicable laws and regulations
- Unique features like Income Insights and ResidentScore
- Option for the landlord or tenant to pay the screening fee
- No sign-up fee or cost to request a tenant screening report
Cons
- Some states limit access to certain criminal data
- The possible learning curve for new users
TransUnion SmartMove is a tenant screening service that empowers landlords with swift and thorough background checks, credit assessments and eviction histories.
The service prides itself on the speed of its results, with comprehensive reports delivered directly to landlords’ inboxes shortly after tenant authorization.
Founded by credit bureau TransUnion, SmartMove is designed to be both user-friendly and legally compliant, updating its solutions to align with the latest consumer reporting regulations.
Why TransUnion SmartMove Stands Out
SmartMove distinguishes itself with features tailored for tenant screening. Its ResidentScore is formulated specifically to predict tenant eviction risks better than traditional credit scores.
Moreover, Income Insights helps landlords determine if further income verification is necessary, potentially reducing the risk of missed tenant payments.
Additionally, SmartMove allows landlords the flexibility to decide who pays for the screening services, offering a more customizable approach to cost management.
SmartMove’s pricing structure is designed to offer variety and value. It provides three main packages: SmartCheck Basic for $25, SmartCheck Plus for $40 and SmartCheck Premium for $44.
>>> Visit TransUnion SmartMove <<<
Types of Checks Offered
TransUnion SmartMove conducts various checks, including:
- ResidentScore
- Criminal Background Report
- Credit Report
- Eviction Related Report
- Income Insights Report
TransUnion SmartMove Reputation
SmartMove, with its backing by TransUnion, carries the reputation of a reliable credit bureau within the real estate industry.
What is a Background Check and How Does It Work?
A background check is a methodical procedure where information from different sources is collected and studied to create a detailed report about someone.
This report can cover things like address history, criminal records, employment and education history, credit details and more.
Usually, it starts with the person providing basic info like their name, date of birth and Social Security Nnumber. Then, this data is checked against public records, databases and other sources to find out about the person’s past.
Types of Background Check Searches
Top background check companies provide various search options to meet different needs. Here are some common types:
Education/Employment Checks
These searches confirm someone’s education and work history to make sure the details they’ve given are correct and current. Employers use them a lot to make sure job applicants truly have the right qualifications and experience for the position they’re seeking.
Identification Checks
Identification checks are designed to confirm an individual’s identity by verifying their name, date of birth, Social Security Nnumber and other personal information. These checks help prevent identity fraud and ensure that the person being screened is who they claim to be.
Public Record Checks
Public record checks involve searching through various government databases and court records to uncover any criminal history, bankruptcies, liens, judgments, or other legal issues associated with an individual.
These checks are crucial for employers, landlords and anyone seeking to mitigate potential risks.
Online Record Checks
In the digital age, online presence and social media activity can provide valuable insights into an individual’s character and behavior. Online background checks scour the internet for any publicly available information, including social media profiles, blog posts, news articles and more.
What Do Background Checks Show?
The information included in a background check report can vary depending on the type of search performed and the level of detail required. However, most comprehensive background checks will typically reveal the following:
- Personal Information: Name, date of birth, Social Security Nnumber, current and previous addresses and contact information
- Criminal Records: Details of any felony or misdemeanor convictions, including the nature of the offense, the date and the jurisdiction
- Employment History: Previous employers, job titles, dates of employment and reasons for leaving
- Educational Background: Schools attended, degrees or certifications obtained and dates of attendance
- Credit History: Information about bankruptcies, liens, judgments and overall credit score
- Driving Records: Details of any traffic violations, suspensions, or accidents
- Professional Licenses: Verification of any licenses or certifications required for specific professions
How Far Back Does a Background Check Go?
Background checks usually look back seven to ten years, but this can vary based on the purpose and laws. Some might go back further if needed. Keep in mind that certain records, like criminal convictions and sex offender registrations, might be reported indefinitely, no matter how long ago they happened.
How to Choose the Best Background Check Site
With numerous background check companies and services available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a professional background check service or site:
FCRA-Compliance
If you’re an employer or landlord doing background checks, pick a site that follows the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This law safeguards how consumer credit info is collected and used, protecting people’s privacy rights.
Cost
Background check services can cost differently, some have set packages while others charge per search. Think about your budget and how often you’ll need to do checks to find the most affordable option.
Types of Background Checks Offered
Think about what kind of information you need and pick a background check site that offers the right types of searches for you. Whether it’s criminal records, work history, credit checks, or social media info, choose the site that meets your specific needs.
Background Check Report Delivery Speed
If you need background check results quickly, especially if you’re hiring or renting out property, find websites that promise fast turnaround times. This way, you can get the information you need without delay.
Program Integrations
If you’re an organization that conducts background checks frequently, consider sites that offer integrations with your existing HR or applicant tracking systems. This can streamline the process and improve overall efficiency.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Check out what customers say and research how people rate different background check websites. This can help you figure out if they’re reliable, accurate and offer good customer service. Choosing a site with positive reviews can give you confidence and make your experience hassle-free.
Data Security and Privacy
When you’re handling private information, like personal details, it’s crucial to focus on keeping it safe. Choose websites that use strong security features, like encryption and safe storage, to guard the data of the people you’re checking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Background Check Cost?
Background check prices can differ a lot based on who you use, what kind of searches you need and how detailed you want them to be. Simple criminal record checks might start at $10 to $20, but if you want more detailed checks that look into things like work history, education and credit, it could be $50 to $200 or even higher.
How Long Does a Background Check Take?
Background check times vary widely, from a few hours to weeks, based on how complex the search is and what sources are used. Some services offer faster options for an extra cost, giving results in just a few hours.
What Is the Most Accurate Online Background Check?
Even though no online background check can be perfectly accurate, trustworthy providers that use many data sources and strong verification methods usually give the best results. Make sure you pick a provider that’s clear about where they get their data and has a good reputation for providing reliable information.
Will a Background Check Show Expunged Records?
Usually, expunged records, which are legal records hidden from the public, won’t show up on regular background checks. But some specialized services might still have access to them, depending on where you are and what happened.
What Is the Best Website for Free Background Checks?
Be careful when using websites that promise free background checks. They often have limited access to information and might not give you the full picture. For thorough and accurate background checks, it’s usually better to use trusted paid services.
What’s Better Than TruthFinder?
TruthFinder is hard to beat as the best background check company but several alternatives may be better suited for specific needs.
For example, sites like BeenVerified and Checkr are known for their comprehensive employment screening services. While Intelius and Instant Checkmate offer user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of search options.
Conclusion
Background checks are really important nowadays for making safe and informed decisions. Top background check sites highlighted in this article offer valuable insights into someone’s history, empowering you to make smart choices.
These sites are helpful for employers, landlords and regular people. They offer various services, have a lot of data and are easy to use.
Make sure you pick an accurate site, follow the rules and keep your information safe. Choose one that fits what you need and sticks to high ethical standards. With these sites, you can feel confident about your background checks and make wise choices.
