10 Best Background Check Websites Rated for 2024
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If you’re curious to learn more about someone, whether it’s a potential roommate, an old friend, or an ex, an online background check service can provide you with the information you need quickly and conveniently. However, you might be wondering which background check sites are the best and most reliable.
Whether you require a criminal background check to uncover arrest history or a simple public records search, the background check search services listed below are excellent starting points. There are plenty of options available, from high-end services to more affordable ones, and it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting value for your money without falling victim to scams.
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10 Best Background Check Sites: At a Glance
- BeenVerified – Best Background Check Site Overall
- PeopleLooker – Best for Quick Results
- TruthFinder – Best for Searching Public Records
- Intelius – Best Public Record Source
- Instant Checkmate – Best for Ease of Use
- PeopleFinders – Best for Dating
- Spokeo – Best for Reverse Email Address Lookup
- US Search – Best for Affordability
- DeepSearchPro – Best for Advanced Web Search Engine
- InfoTracer – Best for Real-Time Information Monitoring
Review of the Best Background Check Services
In our search for the best background check sites, we considered various factors. These factors encompassed the ability to access sensitive information, the cost, the speed, customer reviews, and the features. To gain a deeper understanding of our ranking methodology, please refer to the following sections.
Now, let’s examine the background check services that have earned a spot on our list of best recommendations.
BeenVerified – Best Background Check Site Overall
BeenVerified offers a unique feature called the court runner, where their team physically visits courts to collect documents that aren’t yet available online.
This background check service provides comprehensive reports on individuals by searching public records, social media platforms, and other online sources. The user-friendly interface allows for easy navigation and clear presentation of search results.
Privacy is a top priority for BeenVerified, and they have strict measures in place to protect user data using state-of-the-art encryption technology. User information isn’t shared or sold to third parties. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the level of detail provided in the reports compared to other similar services.
To access the service, users need to become members, and three-month prepaid subscriptions come with a discount. Although loading times can be time-consuming, BeenVerified ensures that the information provided is up-to-date, making it valuable for personal searches.
Pros
- Applications available for iOS and Android
- There’s a discount if you pay three months in advance
- Numerous data sources
- An undercover court runner is looking for undigitized data
Cons
- No specific search options
- Issues with price transparency
- Less thorough than the other best background check services
Cost
BeenVerified offers a cost-effective solution for individuals in need of regular background checks.
They provide flexible subscription plans to suit different budgets, allowing users to pay on a monthly or annual basis. This affordability makes it a viable option for those seeking affordable background check services.
For those who prefer monthly payments, the cost is $29.99 per month. However, if you opt to pay three months in advance, the monthly fee decreases to $19.49 per month.
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 a comprehensive overview of individuals.
With its user-friendly interface, the website offers various services like reverse phone lookups, address lookups, and background checks. This makes it convenient for users to search for people and access their contact information, criminal and traffic records, and other personal details.
If relevancy is of utmost importance, it’s advisable to cross-check the data obtained through alternative methods.
PeopleLooker proves to be a valuable tool for individuals who require information on others for personal or professional reasons. It simplifies finding relevant details and can aid in conducting initial research or gathering background information.
Pros:
- Easily accessible clientele
- Data on sales and marketing
- Connects to HubSpot, Salesforce, and Gmail
Cons:
- US-only coverage
- Non-consumer reporting
Cost
At PeopleLooker, we have a convenient monthly subscription model that gives customers the chance to test our service for just $1 per week. If they find it useful and want to continue, they have two premium plans to choose from a monthly membership for $23.99 per month or a 3-month membership for $19.19 per month.
TruthFinder – Best Background Check Site for Searching Public Records
This year, we highly recommend TruthFinder as one of the best background check sites available. TruthFinder offers a convenient and simple-to-use platform for searching public records online.
Whether you need to access criminal and traffic records, find relatives, or check a potential date, TruthFinder has you covered. With an outstanding A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and an impressive 60,000 five-star reviews, TruthFinder has established a stellar reputation in the industry.
Read the complete TruthFinder review.
Pros
- Updated report monitoring add-on available
- There are many reports available
- Deep Web browsing is possible with add-on feature
- There are applications for iOS and Android
Cons
- Unavailable for free
- It costs extra to download reports
- Functions exclusively in the US
Cost
If you opt for a monthly subscription to TruthFinder, the cost will be $28.05 per month. However, if you prefer to pay every two months, the price is reduced to $23.28 per month.
It’s important to note that TruthFinder is not classified as a “consumer reporting agency” according to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). As a result, the information available on the TruthFinder website cannot be utilized for making decisions related to consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that requires compliance with the FCRA.
Intelius – Best Public Record Source
Intelius is a well-known service that allows users to quickly and unlimitedly search for reliable background check reports. Established in 2003, it has gained a strong reputation for its quick record searches, particularly when it comes to criminal offenses and geographical data.
One key advantage of Intelius is its commitment to ensuring user searches remain confidential, a feature often overlooked by other online search platforms.
To protect user data, the service uses a secure connection with 256-bit encryption. With Intelius, users can access millions of public records, resulting in more comprehensive search results.
To put it simply, Intelius is a trusted and efficient background check service that places a high priority on user convenience, privacy, and access to valuable information.
Read the complete Intelius review.
Pros
- Fantastic apps for iOS and Android
- Pricing and subscription options
- Simple-to-use interface
- Comprehensive source
- Rapid outcomes
Cons
- Price uncertainty
- Limited hours for client service
- Unfinished reports
Cost
The monthly membership cost for people search services begins at $24.86. However, if you opt to pay for two months in advance, the monthly membership fee is lowered to $21.13 per month, billed at $42.25 every other month.
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.)”
Instant Checkmate – Best Background Check Site for Ease of Use
Instant Checkmate is widely recognized as one of the best background check sites available today. It’s highly regarded for its reliable search results and user-friendly features, which are greatly appreciated by its users.
One of the standout features of Instant Checkmate is its convenient smartphone application and search service, making it particularly useful for finding information related to social media. The reports generated by Instant Checkmate are comprehensive and provide detailed information.
While there may be some delays during the report preparation stage due to the website taking a time to load, this is a common issue with similar services. Instant Checkmate operates on a monthly subscription model and doesn’t offer individual report options.
The cost of membership is displayed once the loading process is complete. Despite these drawbacks, Instant Checkmate remains a preferred choice for background checks because of its relevancy, user-friendliness, and detailed reports.
Pros
- Detailed reporting
- Ideal for looking up property records
- Simple smartphone application
- Very reliable
- Aid with speed and ease
Cons
- Slow report loading
- It’s not feasible to report personally
Cost
The upfront payment for a month of service costs $35.12 per month. However, if you opt to pay for three months at once, the monthly membership fee is lowered to $28.09 per month.
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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.)”
PeopleFinders – Best Background Check Site for Dating
PeopleFinders is among the best background check sites that are highly regarded for its exceptional customer support. They offer a variety of search options, including single searches and subscription plans with recurring payments.
To enhance the user experience, PeopleFinders provides innovative mobile apps. Customers consistently praise their customer service, highlighting their commitment to ensuring satisfaction.
However, canceling a membership before the specified term will result in a significant early termination fee. PeopleFinders only supports searches within the United States and doesn’t offer a social media search feature.
While the available assistance options are limited, PeopleFinders maintains its reputation as a reliable background check service known for its outstanding customer service and diverse search options.
Pros
- Outstanding mobile apps
- One option for searching
- Excellent customer service
- Monthly subscription
Cons
- High cancellation charge
- No social media data
- US-only searches
Cost
For just $1.95, you can conduct a search on an individual. To access our services, a monthly membership fee of $24.95 per month is required.
Spokeo – Best Background Check Site for Reverse Email Address Lookup
Spokeo is recognized as one of the best background check sites because it offers free access to basic information, including reverse email address lookups. To conduct a more thorough background check, users need to pay a small one-time fee.
Spokeo allows users to conveniently remove their data from its listings whenever they wish. The website prides itself on its user-friendly interface and consistent content updates.
There have been complaints from certain customers regarding inaccurate results, or limited information provided.
Pros
- Pleasant user interface
- A few unpaid services
- Erasing data is possible
- Regular updates to a webpage
- One-time expense
Cons
- Customer accuracy complaints
- Search plans have constraints
Cost
Spokeo provides a monthly subscription option starting at $19.95 per month. Customers can select the quarterly plan, which is priced at $14.95 per month and billed at $44.85 every three months.
US Search – Best Background Check Site for affordability
Ever since it was founded in 1993, US Search has established itself as one of the best background check sites. With its affordable pricing plans and innovative reverse phone lookup feature, US Search utilizes a powerful search engine to provide comprehensive background checks.
This service has gained recognition as a leading player in the industry, offering an efficient way to access a wide range of criminal and traffic records, including those related to sexual offenders.
What sets US Search apart is its ability to search local sources, state registers, and nationwide sources, guaranteeing a thorough search. With search options, including social networking sites, US Search is a comprehensive background check platform.
Pros
- Open reporting
- Large search sources
Cons
- The slow virtual assistant is useless
Cost
Their formal background check, priced at around $19.86 per month, offers the most extensive search available, covering criminal and traffic records and important financial information.
DISCLAIMER: You may not use US Search or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. US Search 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.)”
DeepSearchPro – Best Background Check Site for Advanced Web Search Engine
DeepSearchPro is a convenient online platform that provides a diverse selection of search services for background checks and reports. With an extensive collection of public records in the United States, customers can easily access anonymous and confidential searches.
Our service offers unlimited curated searches that are compiled into comprehensive reports. These reports encompass a variety of search services, including reverse phone lookup and thorough background checks that include criminal and public records.
DeepSearchPro’s reports include vital information such as current addresses, phone numbers, court orders, arrests, civil records like divorces and bankruptcies, as well as details about relatives.
Pros
- Limitless searches
- Risk-free experiment
- Records of bankruptcy and property
Cons
- The pricing scheme might be perplexing
Cost
At DeepSearchPro, we understand that our customers have different pricing preferences. That’s why we offer a variety of options to meet their needs.
If you want to try our services, you can take advantage of our 3-day trial for just $0.95 for people searching or $3.95 for a full background check.
If you only need a single report, like a public records report or a people search, you can choose to pay a one-time fee. Our public records report is priced at $29.95, while a people search costs $24.95.
For customers who require ongoing access to our services, we offer monthly membership plans. The basic plan costs $4.95 per month for a 6-month membership. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-month membership at $29.95 for a public records report, $24.95 for a people search, or $24.95 for a reverse phone lookup.
Please note that DeepSearchPro is not a “consumer reporting agency” and does not provide “consumer reports” as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Therefore, our site and the information we provide cannot be used to make decisions about consumer credit, insurance, or employment.
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InfoTracer – Best Background Check Site for Real-Time Information Monitoring
InfoTracer is a convenient and effective online platform that enables users to conduct comprehensive background checks on themselves or others.
By utilizing a range of publicly available sources like court records, criminal databases, contact information, and social media platforms, InfoTracer swiftly collects pertinent information.
This data is securely stored in InfoTracer’s database, which can only be accessed by users with paid memberships. With InfoTracer, users can obtain valuable insights and detailed reports, allowing them to make informed decisions based on the information at hand.
Pros
- Complete reports
- Search the deep web
Cons
- There’s no mobile app
- Excessive voids
- Hefty monthly fee
Cost
InfoTracer offers pricing options tailored to individual needs. Users can purchase a comprehensive report and enjoy a 7-day trial for just $2.95, granting them full access to all the platform’s features.
For continued access to basic searches, there’s a monthly subscription fee of $24.95. If users require additional available information, there may be additional charges ranging from $9 to $25 per report for thorough background checks.
It’s important to highlight that InfoTracer does not fall under the category of a “consumer reporting agency” as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and does not generate “consumer reports.” Therefore, the information available on the InfoTracer website should not be utilized for making decisions related to consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that necessitates FCRA compliance.
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What Is a Background Search Service?
A background check service refers to a platform that enables individuals and companies to search for someone or something using public records. It offers a comprehensive way to discover various types of information.
The best online background check services extensively search the internet to gather information about the person you’re interested in. While most of these records are accessible to the general public, finding them on your own would require a significant amount of time and effort.
These services can quickly go through millions of files and generate a detailed report in less than five minutes. Aside from criminal records, online background checks can also uncover employment records, financial information, and other details that provide insights into someone’s life and confirm their identity.
However, not all background searches are conducted in the same manner. The federal government imposes limitations on the information that background check services can report, the duration for which they can report it, and the methods they used to gather information.
When a potential employer or landlord requests a background check, the process must adhere to the provisions of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This means that the best background check sites are required to obtain the individual’s signed consent before conducting any searches.
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How We Chose the Best Background Check Sites
To determine the best background check sites in our evaluation, we considered four crucial factors: the relevancy of the data, the availability of search customization options, the user-friendliness, and the pricing.
Reliable Data
Data relevancy plays a vital role in determining the best background check sites. This is particularly crucial for those conducting criminal background checks, as obtaining reliable and precise results is of utmost importance.
After all, why would anyone want to spend money on searching someone’s background if the information they receive is incorrect? To illustrate, let’s say you have young children, and a new neighbor moves in next door.
Concerned about your family’s safety, you decide to use a people-finder website to search for your neighbor’s name. However, if the website you rely on doesn’t provide reliable information, falsely accusing your neighbor of being a sex offender could lead to serious consequences.
Search Customization Options
The best background check sites provide exceptionally effective search capabilities that enable users to effortlessly locate the information they need.
For example, a background check equipped with advanced search filters should present several input fields for contact details like date of birth, name, address, or other identifying information, which greatly aids in narrowing down the search efficiently.
Furthermore, we also considered websites with user-friendly search functions that are straightforward, intuitive, and easily comprehensible, even for beginners.
Ease of Use
In assessing the best background check sites, we gave careful thought to the significance of user-friendliness. If you’ve ever experienced frustration with a website that was unclear, perplexing, and hard to navigate, know that you’re not alone.
Precisely, a background check site should be simple to use, with a neat layout and clear information or instructions for visitors.
For example, BeenVerified excels in this aspect with its well-structured menu, transparent information regarding its services, and a useful section at the bottom that offers resources like guides, articles, and frequently asked questions.
Price
Price is a significant factor to consider when selecting the best background check sites, just like any other online or offline purchase. Whether you need criminal records, employment history or want to reconnect with someone, nobody wants to pay more than necessary.
Our list features the best background check sites that offer a range of options, from one-time fees for reverse phone lookups to monthly auto-pay subscriptions. The typical membership costs between $15 and $30 per month.
Before committing to a recurring subscription, it’s essential to evaluate your requirements and financial situation to ensure you’re making the right choice.
Social Media Searches
It has become a standard practice to incorporate social media searches to uncover any potential concerns.
While certain free searches only examine public names and linked pages on Google, other best background check sites use advanced software to search for trends, names, and profiles.
BeenVerified takes it a step further by conducting a thorough search of the deep web, surpassing the basic Google name search, to deliver reliable skip trace results.
Customer Support
The best background check sites will have a dedicated customer support team with extensive knowledge in the field. They will be readily available to address any inquiries you may have.
If you encounter any obstacles during your search, they should be able to explain the reasons behind them. Reputable record search companies should prioritize delivering the best possible results to their customers rather than trying to upsell unnecessary searches.
Choosing a paid search is an excellent solution for obtaining information that may be difficult to find independently. Most paid companies will gather the necessary data and present it to you in a user-friendly and well-organized format.
Features to Look For in Best Background Search Sites
If you ever need to conduct a background search on someone, it’s difficult to figure out which background check sites are the best fit for your specific requirements.
But don’t worry; by reading on, you’ll gain valuable knowledge about the key factors to consider when choosing a background check site.
Access to State Records
While some government websites offer databases for searching criminal records, arrest records, pending cases, and similar information at no cost or at a low cost, finding and using these programs can be difficult.
Instead of wasting time searching online or struggling with complicated databases, you can rely on the best background check sites that have access to state records. This way, you can easily conduct a thorough background search in one place rather than using multiple platforms.
The leading background check sites that use state records provide extensive information, such as professional licenses, background checks on civil lawsuits, marriage and divorce records, and other relevant details.
What Are Background Search Mostly Used For?
Best background check sites offer valuable support for various purposes. Whether you’re feeling uneasy about meeting someone online, trying to reconnect with a past acquaintance, or have had a negative experience with a former roommate, running a background check can help you avoid potential issues in the future.
Let’s inspect the typical motivations behind people choosing to conduct a background search.
Online Dates
Online dating can be a lot of fun, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of connecting with someone new. However, be aware of the potential risks that come with it. Before going on blind dates or meeting people you’ve only interacted with online, it’s recommended to do a background check.
To ensure your safety, it’s a good idea to check their social media profiles, find out if they have a criminal record, and look into their previous addresses.
Luckily, there are many background check services available that offer a quick, easy, and affordable way to search for people, usually costing just a dollar or two.
Schoolmates
Setting out on a quest to locate friends from your school days can be an exhilarating journey. It provides the opportunity to reconnect with former schoolmates and acquaintances from your educational past.
Specialized providers of background checks can be of great assistance in this pursuit by granting access to databases that contain records related to education, employment history, and other pertinent details.
Whether you wish to reminisce about cherished memories or rekindle old friendships, these tools prove invaluable for finding past schoolmates. By utilizing these resources effectively, you can overcome the obstacles brought about by time and distance, ultimately rediscovering significant connections that hold sentimental value in your life.
Lost Contacts
Thanks to the popularity of social media, it’s now easier than ever to reconnect with people from our past. However, not everyone is active on these platforms.
If you’re in a situation where you’ve lost touch with someone important to you, such as a friend, family member, or partner, using an online background check site can be a helpful tool to find them.
Remember, the more information you have about the person you’re searching for, the better your chances of getting useful results.
Reverse Phone and Email Lookup
One common search that people often do is a reverse phone and email lookup. If you’ve received calls from unknown numbers, chances are you’ve used a service like White Pages to find out more about them.
However, the best background check sites go beyond just basic information. They offer a thorough reverse phone and email lookup that can provide detailed insights. This includes the person’s name, location, any connections, and other pertinent details.
Best Background Check Sites – FAQ
Can You Do a Background Check on Yourself?
Of course! It’s highly recommended to conduct a self-search using a background checker. It’s crucial to stay informed about your online presence in order to identify any mistakes or potentially harmful content that could negatively affect your reputation.
By utilizing background checkers, you can explore various sources such as public records, state records, and even the dark web to gather as much information as possible about yourself.
Certain background checkers offer a unique feature that allows you to search for unclaimed assets or money. With a self-background check, you can uncover a wealth of information, including these exciting possibilities.
Where Do the Best Background Check Services Get Their Information?
The best background check sites thoroughly examine an individual’s past and present to provide highly reliable information. They start by analyzing public records, which contain information accessible to the general public, including police reports, birth records, and property documents.
These best background check sites delve into secondary sources, which may include online articles, news publications, social media profiles, and phone directories.
Are Best Background Check Sites Legal?
Background checks are allowed in most states, but each state has its own rules and procedures for conducting these searches. Background checks are legal for a wide range of federal and state positions.
Certain jurisdictions have limitations on who can use background search services and what information can be obtained through them. Therefore, if you have any questions about your state’s background check regulations, it’s advisable to seek legal advice.
Best Background Check Sites: The Takeaway
If you’re in need of details about someone you’re dating, a potential roommate, or a long-lost friend, conducting a background search can provide valuable insights.
We’ve thoroughly assessed several best background check sites that are designed for personal use (not FCRA-compliant), including BeenVerified, PeopleLooker, TruthFinder, Intelius, Instant Checkmate, and Spokeo.
These services offer convenient and effective methods for searching details such as criminal and traffic records, location history, names, addresses, and more. You can gain peace of mind and arm yourself with the knowledge to prevent any issues in the future.
Summary of the Best Recommended Background Check Sites
- BeenVerified – Best Background Check Site Overall
- PeopleLooker – Best for Quick Results
- TruthFinder – Best for Searching Public Records
- Intelius – Best Public Record Source
- Instant Checkmate – Best for Ease of Use
- PeopleFinders – Best Background Check Site for Dating
- Spokeo – Best for Reverse Email Lookup
- US Search – Best for Affordability
- DeepSearchPro – Best Background Check Site for Advanced Web Search Engine
- InfoTracer – Best Background Check Site for Real-Time Information Monitoring
All product names, logos, brands, trademarks and registered trademarks are 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 decide 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.