7 Best Background Check Sites of March 2024

Knowledge is power. Making informed decisions about the people you interact with is important for your safety and well-being. Our carefully curated list of the best background check sites serves as your gateway to accessing essential information, helping you make informed choices that matter.

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  • Robust database

  • Android and iOS apps available

  • Court runner locates non-digitized data

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  • Easy to use

  • Offers unclaimed money search

  • Great customer service

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  • A+ BBB Rating

  • Dark web search

  • Unlimited reports with subscription

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  • A+ BBB Rating

  • Vast public records database

  • Ease to use

Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links.

1. BeenVerified - Best Background Check Site Overall

Best Overall

BeenVerified is the best background check service due to its unique court runner feature. This feature involves the physical visitation of courts by the BeenVerified team to gather documents that aren’t yet available online. 

This service offers comprehensive reports on individuals by searching public records, social media platforms, and other online sources. The user-friendly interface allows simple navigation and a clear presentation of search results.

Privacy is a top priority for BeenVerified, which uses stringent measures to protect user data through state-of-the-art encryption technology. 

User information is neither shared nor sold to third parties. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the level of detail provided in the reports compared to similar services offered by other providers.

To access these services, membership with BeenVerified is required. Three-month prepaid subscriptions come at a discounted rate. While loading windows may take some time, rest assured that up-to-date information will be provided to assist in personal searches through this service.

DISCLAIMER: BeenVerified is strictly intended for personal use. Using BeenVerified for credit checks, tenant screenings, or employment verifications would be considered illegal.

Cost

BeenVerified has the advantage of being an affordable option. It provides various subscription plans that cater to different budgets, allowing users to choose between monthly or yearly payments. This makes it a cost-effective solution for individuals who require regular background checks.

If you opt for the monthly payment plan, the cost amounts to $29.99 per month. However, suppose you choose to pay for three months upfront. The monthly charge decreases from $19.49 per month.

Pros:

  • Court runner locates non-digitized data
  • Android and iOS apps available
  • Diverse data sources
  • 3-month advance payment discount

Cons:

  • Limited search options
  • Opaque pricing
  • Less comprehensive than best background check services

2. PeopleLooker

Best Background Check Site for Quick Results

PeopleLooker is an online platform that gathers data from multiple sources, such as public records, social media, and online directories, to provide comprehensive information about individuals.

The website offers various services like reverse phone lookups, address lookups, and background checks in a convenient and user-friendly manner. Users can easily search for people and access their contact information, criminal and traffic records, and other personal details.

PeopleLooker is a tool for those who need information on others for personal or professional reasons. It streamlines finding relevant details and can assist in conducting preliminary research or gathering background information effectively.

Cost

PeopleLooker utilizes a subscription model that operates every month. As part of their offering, customers can try out the service for only $1 during a 7-day trial period

Should customers wish to proceed, they’re presented with two premium options: a monthly membership priced at $23.99 per month or a 3-month membership priced at $19.99 per month.

>> Consider PeopleLooker >>

PeopleLooker does not provide “consumer reports” and is not a “consumer reporting agency” as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the PeopleLooker site or the information it provides to decide about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

Pros:

  • Accessible customer service
  • Valuable data for sales and marketing
  • Integration capabilities with platforms like Gmail and Salesforce

Cons:

  • Limited coverage restricted to the US
  • Non-affiliation with consumer reporting agency status
  • Desktop version offers reduced functionality compared to the mobile app

3. TruthFinder

Best Background Check Site for Searching Public Records

TruthFinder has been selected as our top pick for the best background-checking website of the year. This platform provides a user-friendly and straightforward interface that allows users to access public records online. 

Whether you’re in search of criminal and traffic records, trying to locate potential relatives, or looking into someone’s background before a date, TruthFinder offers all these services and more. The site has established an exceptional reputation with an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and boasts over 60,000 five-star reviews.

Cost

If you decide to buy TruthFinder on a monthly basis, the cost will be $28.05 per month

>> Consider TruthFinder >>

DISCLAIMER: You may not use TruthFinder or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.)”

Pros:

  • Unlimited reports included with the subscription
  • Reports may include information from the deep web
  • Android and iOS apps available
  • Updated report monitoring add-on available

Cons:

  • No free version available
  • Additional charges for downloading reports
  • Limited to the United States

4. Intelius

Best for Reverse Phone Lookup

Intelius is a well-known service that specializes in conducting background checks. It offers its users the convenience of unlimited searches, providing reliable reports. Since its establishment in 2003, Intelius has gained a strong reputation for its speedy record searches, particularly regarding criminal offenses and geographical data. 

One significant advantage of using Intelius is the emphasis they place on user privacy. They understand the importance of keeping individual search activities confidential, which is often overlooked by other online search platforms.

To ensure the security of user data, Intelius uses a secure connection with 256-bit encryption. This guarantees that personal information remains protected. By utilizing Intelius’ services, users gain access to millions of public records, enhancing their search results’ comprehensiveness.

Overall, Intelius stands out as a trustworthy and best background check service that prioritizes user convenience, privacy protection, and access to valuable information.

Cost

For the search service, the starting price for a monthly membership fee is $24.86 per month. If you choose to pay for two months in advance, the monthly cost will be lowered to $21.13 per month. The pricing for individual searches may differ based on your specific needs and preferences.

>> Consider Intelius >>

DISCLAIMER: You may not use Intelius or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Intelius does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.)”

Pros:

  • Diverse subscription plans and pricing options
  • Vast record
  • Outstanding Android and iOS mobile apps
  • Rapid search results
  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Pricing can be confusing
  • Limited customer service hours
  • Reports occasionally lack completeness

5. Instant Checkmate

Best Background Check Site for Ease of Use

Instant Checkmate has established itself as one of the leading providers of background checks, thanks to its reliable search results and user-friendly features. Users highly value the reliability and precision of the information provided by Instant Checkmate. 

The service offers a convenient smartphone application and search function, which proves useful for uncovering social media-related details. The reports generated by Instant Checkmate are extensive and thorough.

However, users may encounter some delays during the report generation process due to website loading times. Similar to other services in this industry, Instant Checkmate operates on a monthly subscription model and does not offer individual report options. 

The cost of membership is revealed once the loading process is complete. Despite these minor drawbacks, individuals still prefer Instant Checkmate as their go-to background check service because it can deliver relevance, simplicity, and comprehensive reports.

Cost

If you pay in advance, the cost for one month of service is $35.12. However, if you choose to pay for three months at once, the fee per month drops to $28.09.

>> Consider Instant Checkmate >>

DISCLAIMER: You may not use Instant Checkmate or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Instant Checkmate does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.)”

Pros:

  • Exceptional relevance
  • User-friendly mobile app
  • Simplified and straightforward service
  • Comprehensive reports
  • Ideal for property records searches

Cons:

  • Report loading times may be slow
  • Lack of individual report generation option

6. PeopleFinders

Best Background Check Site for Dating

PeopleFindersexcellent customer service, making it a top choice for background checks. Users can choose between single searches or subscription plans with recurring payments. 

PeopleFinders sets itself apart by offering innovative mobile applications that enhance the user experience. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident through the consistently positive feedback they receive.

However, ending a membership before the agreed term results in a significant early termination fee. PeopleFinders only conducts searches within the United States and doesn’t offer social media search capabilities. 

The help options are limited in scope. Despite these limitations, PeopleFinders remains highly regarded as a reliable and best background check service due to its exceptional customer service and wide range of search options available.

Cost

The cost of conducting a single people search is $1.95, while membership requires a monthly fee of $24.95 per month.

>> Consider PeopleFinders >>

PeopleFinders does not provide “consumer reports” and is not a “consumer reporting agency” as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the PeopleFinders site or the information it provides to decide about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

Pros:

  • Single search option
  • Monthly subscription
  • Excellent mobile applications
  • Exceptional client service

Cons:

  • High cancellation fee
  • Limited to the United States
  • No social media data

7. Spokeo

Best for Reverse Email Lookup

Spokeo stands out as an excellent choice for conducting background checks due to its free access to essential information, including reverse email address lookups. For a more comprehensive report, you can opt to pay a nominal one-time fee. 

Another advantage is the ability to remove your data from Spokeo’s listings whenever you want. The user interface is user-friendly and regularly updated with new content.

However, some customers have voiced concerns about inaccuracies in the findings or the limited amount of information provided by Spokeo.

Cost

Spokeo offers a monthly plan that begins at $19.95 per month. For those who prefer a quarterly plan, Spokeo provides an option priced at only $14.95 per month, with a total charge of $44.85 billed every three months.

>> Consider Spokeo >>

Spokeo does not provide “consumer reports” and is not a “consumer reporting agency” as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the Spokeo site or the information it provides to decide about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

Pros:

  • Offers some free services
  • Data deletion feature available
  • User-friendly interface
  • Regular website updates
  • One-time fee payment option

Cons:

  • Customer complaints regarding relevance
  • Lack of unlimited search plans

What Is a Background Check Service?

A background check service is a platform that provides a means to search for individuals or companies through public records. It enables users to uncover and authenticate various types of information. Background checks are used by individuals and organizations to gather data that can offer a more comprehensive understanding of an individual’s background.

An internet-based background check service diligently scours the entire expanse of the internet to collect information on the person being searched for. 

While most of these records are technically accessible by anyone, it would require weeks, if not months, to gather all the details. With background check services, millions of files can be sifted through within minutes, resulting in a detailed report.

Online best background checks extend beyond criminal records alone, they also can uncover credit history, career history, financial records, and other pertinent information that reveals an individual’s life experiences while also confirming their identity.

However, conducting background searches can vary. The limitations imposed by the federal government dictate what information background check services may report, how long they can report it for, and how they gather their data.

If a potential recruiter requests a search, they must adhere to the regulations outlined in the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This means that background check services must obtain written consent from individuals before proceeding with any searches.

>> Best Background Check Service: BeenVerified >>

How We Chose the Best Background Check Websites

In our evaluation, we considered four key factors to identify the sites: data precision, search personalization choices, user-friendliness, and cost.

Reliable Data

Reliable data is essential for any best background check website, especially when it comes to conducting criminal background checks. It’s crucial to have reliable and correct results. Otherwise, why would anyone want to pay for a service that doesn’t provide detailed information?

Consider this scenario: you have young children, and a new neighbor moves in next door. Naturally, you want to ensure the safety of your family, so you decide to run a search on their name using a people-finder website. 

However, if the site doesn’t have reliable information, there could be serious consequences. For instance, if your neighbor is actually on the sex offender registry for committing a serious crime, but the site fails to provide that information, falsely accusing them could put your family at risk.

This example demonstrates why data reliability plays such a vital role in assessing the quality of websites that offer background information searches.

Search Customization Options

The top-notch websites for conducting the best background checks offer highly sophisticated search features, making it incredibly simple to obtain the desired information. To illustrate, an advanced background check should include many input fields allowing you to enter contact details such as date of birth, name, address, or any other identifying information that can help refine your search.

We sought out platforms with user-friendly search functions that are uncomplicated and intuitive enough for beginners to grasp right away.

Ease of Use

In our evaluation of the best background check websites, we considered ease of use to be a crucial factor. If you’ve ever encountered a website that was unclear, perplexing, and difficult to navigate, you’re not alone.

When it comes specifically to websites providing best background checks, simplicity and clarity are key. It’s important for such websites to have a clean interface and provide visitors with clear information and instructions. 

Take BeenVerified as an example. Their website features a menu where users can easily access features. They offer comprehensive information on what can be obtained through their services and provide helpful resources at the bottom of the page, including guides, articles, and frequently asked questions.

Price

When it comes to purchasing any product or service, whether online or in-store, the price is always a crucial factor to consider, and this holds true for the best background check services as well. No one wants to spend an exorbitant amount of money, whether they’re searching for someone’s criminal records or career history or trying to find a long-lost contact.

Most reliable background check websites on our list provide various pricing options. These options range from one-time fees for utilizing the reverse phone lookup feature to monthly auto-pay subscriptions priced between $15 and $30.

Before committing to a recurring subscription plan, it’s important to assess your needs and compare them with your budget in order to make an informed decision.

Social Media Searches

In today’s world, it’s more and more common for social media searches to be conducted as part of recruiting. This is done to uncover any potential problems or issues that a person may have, which could impact their plans. 

While some basic searches only use Google to look up public names and linked pages, other background check services go further by using specialized software to search trends, names, and profiles. One such service is BeenVerified, which goes beyond the traditional Google name search and can provide high-quality results through a deep web search.

Customer Support

A reputable best background check service provider will have a knowledgeable customer support team well-versed in the industry. They should be able to address any inquiries you may have and provide explanations if your search encounters obstacles. Trustworthy record search companies prioritize delivering the best outcomes for their customers rather than attempting to sell unnecessary searches.

Using a paid search service can be an effective method of accessing information that may otherwise be challenging to find independently. Most paid companies compile and present the information in a user-friendly and well-structured format.

>> Visit BeenVerified >>

Features to Look for in a Good Background Search Site

If you find yourself in need of conducting a background search on an individual, it’s challenging to determine which background check is most suitable for your specific requirements. However, by continuing to read, you will discover the essential features that you should consider when selecting the best background check site.

Access to State Records

While several state websites provide information that offer criminal records, arrest records, pending cases, and similar information either for free or at a low cost, it can be quite challenging to locate and navigate these programs. 

Instead of spending hours searching online or struggling with a complex interface, you can use a best background check website that has access to state records. This way, you can conveniently conduct a comprehensive background search in one place without having to switch between multiple platforms.

Most background check services that use state records not only provide basic information but also offer detailed insights such as professional licenses, civil lawsuit checks, marriage and divorce records, among other relevant data points.

>> Best Background Check Service: BeenVerified >>

What Are Background Checks Mostly Used For?

There are several reasons why websites offering background check services can be valuable. They can provide peace of mind when meeting someone online, reconnecting with a past acquaintance, or avoiding potential issues with a new roommate. 

Conducting a background search allows you to gather information about someone’s history and make informed decisions to prevent future difficulties. Here’s an overview of the common motivations behind running a background check.

Online Dates

Online dating is undeniably enjoyable. The excitement of building a connection with someone new is hard to resist. 

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential risks that come with online dating. It’s wise to conduct a comprehensive background check before going on blind dates or meeting individuals in person whom you have only met through the Internet.

To ensure safety, you can examine their social media profiles, verify if they have any criminal records, and gather information about their previous addresses. Many professional background check companies offer affordable and efficient people search sites for just a dollar or two. 

By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself and make informed decisions when it comes to your personal safety while engaging in online dating activities.

Roommates

If you have ever cohabitated with someone who posed challenges, you can empathize with the reasons people turn to background check services in order to verify the reliability of a potential roommate. No one desires to share living space with an enigmatic stranger. Hence, conducting online searches for additional information serves as an effective means of attaining peace of mind regarding your new domestic arrangement.

A background check service enables you to explore public records, social media platforms, and more. Ultimately, this allows you to ascertain whether your housemate has a criminal history or any other undisclosed secrets that would render moving in together ill-advised.

Lost Contacts

Thanks to the power of social media, it’s now simpler than ever to reconnect with individuals who have slipped out of our lives. Not all individuals are active on social media platforms. 

If you find yourself in a position where you’ve lost touch with someone important to you, be it a friend, partner, or relative, using an online background check service can prove invaluable in your search for them. 

Naturally, having access to as much information as possible increases your chances of successfully narrowing down search results and getting the desired information.

Reverse Phone and Email Lookup

A frequently conducted search by individuals is a reverse phone and email lookup, which allows them to gather information about unknown callers. If you have received missed calls from unfamiliar numbers, it’s likely that you have used a reverse lookup service in the past, such as White Pages.

The best background check service goes beyond just providing basic details. It offers an extensive reverse phone and email lookup that furnishes comprehensive information. This includes identifying the person’s name, registered location details, or other relevant data.

>> Consider BeenVerified >>

Guide to Background Checks

Best Background check services are a convenient and straightforward tool for individuals seeking information about someone before establishing any professional or personal connection. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of what background checks entail, their functioning process, and the various information they can uncover.

How Much Does a Criminal Background Check Cost?

The price range for a background check usually varies from $10 to $500, depending on the specific components included in the report. Reports that only include criminal searches are less expensive compared to reports that also include education histories and drug testing. When comparing different vendors, consider the specific components or searches included in each report and how they contribute to the overall cost of the report.

If you choose to use BeenVerified for a criminal background check, you will need to sign up for a membership before accessing any reports. The monthly cost is $29.99 per month if you opt for a month-to-month payment plan. However, if you pay upfront for three months at once, the monthly charge decreases to $19.49 per month.

What Shows Up on a Background Check?

Most background checks encompass basic details about an individual, such as contact information and personal identifiers like age and date of birth. A comprehensive background check delves into more specific aspects such as criminal records, arrest records, and educational background. 

There are several other elements that can be incorporated into a thorough background check. These details provide a holistic view of an individual’s profile and help in making informed decisions based on their experiences and qualifications.

  • Civil records
  • Relatives 
  • Marriage licenses
  • Other types of licenses (professional)
  • Driving history
  • Sexual offender registry listings
  • Personal websites
  • Photographs
  • Weapons permits
  • Aliases 
  • Military records
  • Social media profiles
  • Wikipedia pages
  • Blogs 

>> Use BeenVerified >>

How Long Do Criminal Background Checks Take?

If you opt for a reputable background check service like BeenVerified or TruthFinder, you can expect to receive the outcome of your criminal background check in just minutes. 

These services are designed to provide quick and convenient results, eliminating the need for lengthy waiting periods. However, the process can take significantly longer if you conduct a criminal records check manually or through a government or consumer reporting agency.

While many background checks can be completed and results obtained within three to five days, sometimes it may take longer. For instance, FBI checks typically require approximately 30 days for completion. Although expedited processing may be available for certain federal background checks, it’s advisable to expect the comprehensive review that causes the 30-day waiting period.

Some best background checks involve gathering multiple sets of data (e.g., criminal history and credit checks). The number of requests included in a single background check can impact the duration of the process. The more information requested within one check, the lengthier it may take for completion.

How to Conduct a Criminal Background Check

Running a criminal background check can be done the hard way or the easy way. The hard way involves manually contacting public offices, submitting records requests, and searching through those records for the information you need.

Alternatively, you can take the simple route by using a people search service like BeenVerified to conduct a criminal history check. With this method, all you have to do is enter the name and city or phone number of your target individual. You can even use reverse phone lookup tools to find someone using their email address.

The background check service will search its sources by providing basic information about a person. While it may take a few minutes for results to come in, rest assured that plenty of authentic data will be provided if it takes longer.

>> Get Started With BeenVerified >>

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    Best Background Check Sites – FAQ

    Absolutely, you can conduct a personal online search using a background check site. It’s something that you should do regularly. Why? It serves as an excellent method to uncover what individuals come across when they search your name online, including any inaccuracies or images that might damage your reputation. 

    You can survey public records, state records, and even delve into the depths of the deep web to gather as much information about yourself as possible.

    Certain background check sites allow searching for unclaimed funds or property. How intriguing would it be if you could discover that there’s an unclaimed tax refund or perhaps an inheritance waiting for you? By utilizing a background check on yourself, you can obtain all of this information and much more.

    The best background checks site aims to analyze an individual’s history and current situation to provide the most reliable information. The process commences by delving into public records, which encompass a wide range of data accessible to the public. This includes scrutinizing documents like police reports, birth records, and ownership deeds.

    Subsequently, the premier background check site checks secondary sources. These sources can consist of articles or news items published on the internet and various online platforms such as social media accounts and phone directories.

    Background checks are permissible in most states, but each state has its own specific criteria and regulations for conducting these checks. Background checks are legally required for many federal positions and a significant number of state roles.

    In some jurisdictions, there exist restrictions on who can use background check services and what type of information can be obtained through them. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek advice from a legal professional if you have any inquiries regarding your particular state’s laws pertaining to background checks.

    DISCLAIMER: Prior to deciding regarding the recruitment of a new employee, it’s recommended that you consult with both your state’s unemployment office as well as the human resources department within your company.

    Best Background Check Sites: The Takeaway

    If you’re in need of information about a date, roommate, or old friend, conducting a background check can be incredibly helpful. We’ve thoroughly examined five top-notch websites that offer personal-use background checks (excluding those compliant with the FCRA). 

    These sites include BeenVerified, PeopleLooker, TruthFinder, Intelius, Instant Checkmate, and Spokeo. Each platform allows for a quick and convenient search for various types of information, such as criminal records, and location history details like names and addresses. Using these services not only provides peace of mind but also equips you with knowledge to address any potential issues in the future.

    >> Get Started With BeenVerified >>

    All product names, logos, brands, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    DISCLAIMER: You may not use the non-FCRA approved services mentioned in this article or the information they provide to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. These services don’t provide consumer reports and are not consumer reporting agencies. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.)

    The information available on our website may not be 100% accurate, complete, or up to date, so do not use it as a substitute for your own due diligence, especially if you have concerns about a person’s criminal history. The services we mention do not make any representation or warranty about the accuracy of the information available through our website or about the character or integrity of the person about whom you inquire. For more information, please review each service’s Terms of Use.

    Summary of the Top Recommended Background Checking Sites

    • BeenVerified – Best Background Check Site Overall
    • PeopleLooker – Best Background Check for Quick Results
    • TruthFinder – Best for Searching Public Records
    • Intelius – Best for Reverse Phone Lookup
    • Instant Checkmate – Best Background Check for Ease of Use
    • PeopleFinders – Best Background Check Site for Dating
    • Spokeo – Best for Reverse Email Lookup

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