Buying Guide: Choosing a Background Check Service

Picking the right background check service can be tricky. So many websites out there say they have all the answers! Let’s cut through the noise and figure out what matters most to you.

What Do You Need to Know?

Start here! Different background checks give you different information. Here’s the breakdown:

• Basic Criminal Checks: The go-to for most people. These tell you about serious offenses – things a person was arrested or convicted of.
• Deep Dive Checks: Want a whole history? These searches dig up old court records, traffic tickets, even bankruptcies.
• People Finder Checks: Focus on contact info – find a current address, uncover old phone numbers, even discover possible relatives.
• Professional Checks: Hiring for a job? This is your tool. It verifies previous jobs, school degrees, and other credentials.

Important: Some checks cost more than others, so get clear on what you need before you decide on a service.

How Fast Is Fast Enough?

Some background checks offer results in minutes – great when you need info quickly. Others are more in-depth and take a few days or more. Pick a service that matches your speed needs.

Your Budget Matters

Prices change a lot between background check companies. Here’s what to look at:

• One-time checks: Great if you just need one search.
• Subscriptions: A good deal if you do background checks often.
• Hidden fees: Double-check for extra costs – some sites charge more for different kinds of information.

Keep Things Simple

Not everyone knows everything about computers. If you’re not tech-savvy, look for background check sites with:

• Easy-to-read websites
• Clear steps on how to start a search
• Reports that don’t use confusing legal terms

It should be easy to do a background check – not frustrating!

Extra Things to Think About

Now you’ve covered the basics, let’s go into those extra details that make a difference:

• Accuracy: Nobody wants wrong information! The best background check services use many reputable sources, and they often let you dispute incorrect information in your report. Look for websites that explain their quality control standards.
• Customer Support: What happens if you have questions or run into problems? Websites with friendly customer support teams will get you unstuck, fast! Look for options like live chat, phone support, or a detailed help section.
• Mobile access: Want to be able to run a background check anytime, anywhere? Some services offer mobile apps so you can access them right from your phone or tablet.
• Special Features: Certain companies offer unique features along with their standard checks. These might include:
  • Self-monitoring: Check if your own info shows up in other people’s searches.
  • Dark web scans: Some sites scour underground areas of the internet where your data might end up if it gets stolen.
  • Social media searches: Get a peek into a person’s online presence by seeing what they post publicly.

What Does the Law Say?

It’s crucial to stay on the right side of the law when using background checks. Here are important things to know:

• Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): This law sets rules for using background checks for jobs, renting, insurance, and credit applications. Know the rules to avoid legal problems!
• Your own location: States can have extra background check laws! You might need to follow additional rules, especially if you’re an employer. Do some quick research about where you live.

A Note about Ethics

Background checks are powerful. Once you get information about someone, use it fairly! Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Don’t make snap judgments: A past mistake doesn’t always predict future behavior. Keep things in perspective and let people explain themselves if necessary.
• Avoid discrimination: Never base a decision on factors like race, religion, gender, or disability. It’s not only unethical, but likely illegal.
• Stay focused: Stick to information relevant to your situation. Personal info that doesn’t matter can lead to unfair conclusions.

Trust Your Gut

Picking any service online involves some trust. When checking out a background check site, pay attention to these extra factors:

• Does it feel ‘professional’? Serious websites have well-written pages with few typos and errors. Things should feel clear and reliable.
• Check reviews: Sites like the Better Business Bureau or review platforms can often give you good hints about a company’s track record. Look for patterns – does everyone praise their customer support, or are they known for having outdated reports?
• Privacy is key: Read how your search information is protected. Reputable background check companies never sell your data or use it for unrelated stuff. Be wary of “free” sites – you are often the product that’s being sold!

Bottom Line

There’s no single one-size-fits-all “best” background check service. The best service for YOU depends on your specific needs. Use this guide to narrow down your search until you find one that provides the info you want, fits your budget, and feels reliable.