As our world becomes more digitized, performing detailed background checks has never been easier. Many companies offer unique features, with varying fees attached. In this article, we will delve into what exactly background checks are and the best services available to assist you in performing them.
What are background checks and why are they important?
A background check is a service that is typically performed by an employer or individual to verify an individual's criminal history, employment history, education, credit history, or any other relevant information. These checks are important for employers, landlords, and even romantic partners to ensure the safety and trustworthiness of those in their lives.
How to Choose the Best Background Check Service?
When you hear about background checks, what comes to mind? Is it the FBI fingerprinting a suspect or a detective conducting an investigation? The modern-day background check process is much more accessible than that, with many online services, each with its features and fees.
Choosing the best service for your needs can be overwhelming. However, consider the following factors while deciding:
- Speed of delivery: A speedy background check is critical for most individuals and employers. Find a service that offers the quickest turnaround times to streamline the hiring or rental process.
- Type of check: Some services are specifically designed for criminal record checks while others focus primarily on credit or employment history.
- Pricing: When looking for the best background check service, costs are undoubtedly a vital consideration. Most reputable services offer plans that are either subscription-based or pay as you go. Go for the most affordable and reasonable fees.
- Data sources: The accuracy and completeness of a background check report depend mainly on the availability of comprehensive data from reliable sources. Make sure the service you choose provides the most data available on an individual.
Top background check services.
Here are some of the best background check companies available and what they offer:
1. TruthFinder
TruthFinder is one of the most comprehensive background check services available. It provides background checks that include criminal and arrest histories, sex offender registration, contact information, location history, and social media profiles. Apart from quick turnaround times, the information provided is fully comprehensive and accurate, making it an excellent option for employers and individuals.
TruthFinder offers two pricing plans: a one-month subscription for under $30 or a three-month subscription for under $70.
2. Instant Checkmate
Another popular provider is Instant Checkmate. It offers reliable reports that cover criminal records, sex offender registration, education, employment history, financial history, and social media profiles. The reports are comprehensive and up-to-date, including data from multiple sources in a concise format.
Instant Checkmate offers two pricing options: A one-month subscription for under $35 or a three-month plan for just under $90.
3. Intelius
Intelius is popular for its combination of affordability and fast turnaround times. It offers background checks that cover criminal records, employment history, contact information, educational history, and social media profiles. The reports are detailed and up-to-date, with a 24-hour turnaround time in some cases.
Intelius offers two pricing plans: A one-time background check for under $50, or a monthly subscription, which starts at under $30 per month.
4. BeenVerified
BeenVerified is perfect for those on a tight budget or looking to run just one check. It provides background checks that cover criminal records, financial history, employment history, educational history, address history, and social media profiles. However, the turnaround time takes longer than the others mentioned, taking about ten days for a full report, which can be frustrating for employers.
BeenVerified offers a one-time background check for under $25 or else a monthly subscription starting at just under $15.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best background check services requires careful consideration, and taking time to browse through the options available. TruthFinder, Instant Checkmate, Intelius, and BeenVerified are some of the most popular sites you can use to perform background checks based on your preferences and needs. With a clearance by one of these, you can rest assured that you have the information you need to make the best decisions based on who it is that you're dealing with.