Employers are increasingly relying on background checks to ensure they hire reliable, trustworthy, and qualified candidates. A comprehensive background check can reveal crucial information about an applicant’s criminal history, employment records, education credentials, and more. This due diligence not only protects the employer from potential legal liabilities but also safeguards the company’s reputation and assets.
As we approach 2024, the demand for efficient and accurate background check services is expected to rise. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to choose the right service provider. In this article, we will explore the 7 best background check services for employment in 2024, highlighting their features, services, and pricing to help you make an informed decision.
7 Best Background Check For Employment 2024
1. GoodHire
GoodHire is a leading provider of employment background check services, offering a comprehensive suite of screening solutions tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. With a user-friendly platform and intuitive reporting, GoodHire streamlines the hiring process, ensuring employers have access to accurate and timely information.
Features:
- Customizable background check packages
- Automated compliance and legal guidance
- Robust candidate management system
- Mobile-friendly platform
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, and national)
- Employment and education verification
- Credit reports
- Motor vehicle records
- Professional license verification
- Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Driving records and license status
- Professional certifications and licenses
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $29.99 per report
- Standard Package: $59.99 per report
- Premium Package: $79.99 per report
- Enterprise solutions available for larger organizations
2. Sterling
Sterling is a renowned provider of background check services, offering a comprehensive range of screening solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across various industries. With a focus on accuracy, compliance, and customer service, Sterling has established itself as a trusted partner for employers seeking reliable background check solutions.
Features:
- Customizable background check packages
- Industry-specific screening solutions
- Robust candidate management system
- Dedicated client support team
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, and national)
- Employment and education verification
- Drug testing and health screening
- Global screening services
- Social media and online presence checks
Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Driving records and license status
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Drug test results and health screening reports
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $35 per report
- Standard Package: $65 per report
- Premium Package: $95 per report
- Custom pricing for enterprise solutions
3. AccurateNow
AccurateNow is a trusted name in the background check industry, offering comprehensive and reliable screening services to businesses of all sizes. With a focus on accuracy, compliance, and customer satisfaction, AccurateNow provides employers with the insights they need to make informed hiring decisions.
Features:
- Customizable background check packages
- Real-time candidate tracking and reporting
- Mobile-friendly platform
- Dedicated compliance experts
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, and national)
- Employment and education verification
- Credit reports
- Professional license verification
- Social media and online presence checks
Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Credit scores and financial history
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Social media and online presence analysis
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $29.95 per report
- Standard Package: $49.95 per report
- Premium Package: $69.95 per report
- Enterprise solutions available for larger organizations
4. HireRight
HireRight is a global leader in employment background check services, offering comprehensive screening solutions to businesses of all sizes across various industries. With a commitment to accuracy, compliance, and customer service, HireRight provides employers with the insights they need to make informed hiring decisions.
Features:
- Customizable background check packages
- Industry-specific screening solutions
- Robust candidate management system
- Global screening capabilities
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, national, and international)
- Employment and education verification
- Drug testing and health screening
- Professional license verification
- Social media and online presence checks
Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Driving records and license status
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Drug test results and health screening reports
- Social media and online presence analysis
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $39.99 per report
- Standard Package: $69.99 per report
- Premium Package: $99.99 per report
- Custom pricing for enterprise solutions and global screening
5. InfoMart
InfoMart is a trusted provider of employment background check services, offering comprehensive and customizable screening solutions to businesses of all sizes. With a focus on accuracy, compliance, and customer satisfaction, InfoMart provides employers with the insights they need to make informed hiring decisions.
Features:
- Customizable background check packages
- Automated compliance and legal guidance
- Robust candidate management system
- Dedicated client support team
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, and national)
- Employment and education verification
- Credit reports
- Motor vehicle records
- Professional license verification
Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Driving records and license status
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Credit scores and financial history
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $29.95 per report
- Standard Package: $49.95 per report
- Premium Package: $69.95 per report
- Enterprise solutions available for larger organizations
6. Checkr
Checkr is a leading provider of modern and innovative background check services, offering a user-friendly platform and advanced screening solutions tailored to meet the needs of businesses in various industries. With a focus on accuracy, compliance, and efficiency, Checkr streamlines the hiring process, ensuring employers have access to reliable and timely information.
Features:
Customizable background check packages
Automated compliance and legal guidance
Mobile-friendly platform
Robust candidate management system
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, and national)
- Employment and education verification
- Credit reports
- Motor vehicle records
- Professional license verification
Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Driving records and license status
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Credit scores and financial history
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $35 per report
- Standard Package: $55 per report
- Premium Package: $75 per report
- Custom pricing for enterprise solutions
7. BackgroundChecks.com
BackgroundChecks.com is a trusted provider of employment background check services, offering a comprehensive suite of screening solutions tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. With a focus on accuracy, compliance, and customer service, BackgroundChecks.com provides employers with the insights they need to make informed hiring decisions.
Features:
- Customizable background check packages
- Automated compliance and legal guidance
- Mobile-friendly platform
- Dedicated client support team
Background Check Services, including:
- Criminal records search (county, state, and national)
- Employment and education verification
- Credit reports
- Motor vehicle records
- Professional license verification
Background Report Information, including:
- Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors)
- Employment history and income verification
- Education credentials and degrees
- Driving records and license status
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Credit scores and financial history
Pricing:
- Basic Package: $29.95 per report
- Standard Package: $49.95 per report
- Premium Package: $69.95 per report
- Enterprise solutions available for larger organizations
Here are Some FAQ about background checks for employment
How can employers verify applicants’ social media presence during background checks?
Many background check companies now offer social media screening services that scan publicly available content on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. This allows employers to get insights into an applicant’s online behavior, comments, and posted content that could raise red flags about their judgment or values. Professional screening analysts review the findings before reporting them.
What steps should employers take if a background check reveals inaccurate information?
If inaccuracies are found, employers should promptly notify the background check provider and provide documentation supporting the correct information. Reputable providers have processes to reinvestigate and correct reports. Employers must also comply with adverse action procedures under the Fair Credit Reporting Act before revoking a job offer based on the report.
How do background checks verify an applicant’s professional licenses and certifications?
Advanced background checks can verify if claimed professional licenses or certifications are currently valid and in good standing. This is done by directly checking records with the issuing authorities and organizations based on the specific license/certification details provided by the applicant.
Can background checks uncover applicants’ involvement in civil lawsuits or legal judgments?
Many comprehensive employment background checks include a civil records search to identify any civil lawsuits, judgments, or liens involving the applicant. These public records could indicate past issues like unpaid debts, conflicts, or other legal disputes relevant to evaluating candidate credibility.
What privacy and compliance regulations must employers follow when conducting background checks?
Key regulations include the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which requires providing disclosures and getting consent, as well as adverse action procedures if denying jobs based on background reports. Some states and municipalities also have “ban-the-box” laws restricting criminal record inquiries for initial applications.
How can gig economy companies efficiently conduct background checks for contingent workers?
Gig platforms and staffing agencies need background check services that can quickly and compliantly screen pools of contingent, freelance, or temporary workers on an ad-hoc basis. Many vendors offer batch processing, mobile-friendly solutions, and automated compliance tools for this high-volume contingent screening.
Do background checks typically include verification of applicants’ military service records?
Yes, centralized verification of military records is a common background check component. Employers can confirm dates of service, discharge status, and other military history details by authorizing the screening company to retrieve electronic records from the U.S. Department of Defense.
How can small businesses conduct affordable background checks during hiring?
Small businesses have more economical options like reusable background check packages or streamlined desktop solutions offered by vendors. A basic criminal record check can cost $25-50, with more comprehensive screening packages $60-100+ per applicant. Volume discounts may also apply.
Can background checks be conducted on a recurring basis for existing employees?
Absolutely, many employers choose to rescreen their workforce periodically using a repeating schedule or using an automated monitoring system. This continual vetting can identify new criminal charges, sanctions or other issues that develop during employment and impact an individual’s job suitability.
Are background checks useful for verifying immigration status and work authorization?
Employment background screening companies can perform the necessary steps to confirm work eligibility status per I-9 requirements, including reviewing identification documents and validating those against federal databases. This provides an additional level of validation during onboarding processes.