10 Best Pre-Employment Background Check Companies

Pre-employment background check companies assist businesses by verifying details about a candidate’s history.

These services provide checks on criminal records, employment history, and education verification.

Background check services reduce the likelihood of incomplete or inaccurate details affecting hiring decisions. It is done to confirm the information presented during the hiring process.

In this article, we will talk about what pre-employment background checks cover and the services offered by background check companies.

We will also review some of the leading background screening providers for 2024 and how you can choose the right provider.

What are Pre-Employment Background Checks?

Pre-employment background checks verify information provided by candidates during the hiring process.

Pre-employment background check companies confirm qualifications by reviewing various records such as:

• Criminal records
• Employment history
• Education verification

The process may involve conducting a criminal background check, a national criminal record search, and a global background check, depending on the position and location.

The best background check services also provide detailed reports that summarize findings, including criminal history and other relevant details.

These reports are often presented through an easy-to-use interface and help businesses make informed hiring decisions.

Many background check companies comply with regulations such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act and guidelines from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 

10 Pre-Employment Background Check Companies in 2024

Choosing the right pre-employment background check company involves considering the range of services offered, flexibility, and overall ease of use.

The following companies provide various background check services that cater to businesses with different needs.

1. Stellar Background Checks

Stellar processes up to 20,000 background checks per month, focusing on high-volume accuracy. 

We offer services for criminal background screening and provide access to a broad range of criminal records databases. Businesses can also request driving records for roles requiring vehicle operation.

We also provide employment and education verification, confirming work history and educational qualifications.

Drug testing and occupational health screenings are available for businesses with health-related requirements.

We offer five distinct service packages, starting from the Standard Package at $35, which includes an SSN trace and criminal background checks, up to the Platinum Package at $119, which includes federal criminal searches.

Our services deliver results within 1-3 days, which can meet the needs of businesses requiring quick results.

We have a pay-as-you-go model that offers flexibility without long-term contracts, and our client portal allows businesses to track background checks in real-time as they are processed.

Key Features:

• High-volume processing capabilities
• Pay-as-you-go service model
• Real-time client portal for tracking results

Fill out this form and start onboarding more talents with Stellar Background Checks now!

2. HireRight

Source: HireRight

HireRight provides a comprehensive selection of background check services, including criminal background checks, employment verification, and drug testing.

The company operates in both U.S. and international markets, which benefits businesses needing international background checks.

Pricing starts at $36.47 for the Instant Criminal+ package, which includes checks for criminal records and SSN validation.

The higher-tier Instant Criminal+ All Counties package, priced at $76.95, includes county-level searches for a more detailed background review.

Key Features:

• Global screening services
• Multiple pricing options for different levels of checks
• Industry-specific solutions available

3. Sterling

Source: Sterling

Sterling offers background checks for businesses of all sizes. The company’s services include criminal background checks, drug testing, and motor vehicle reports.

Sterling’s platform integrates with existing applicant tracking systems, allowing businesses to manage the background check process more easily.

Sterling also offers workforce monitoring, which lets businesses track changes in an employee’s background after hiring.

This is useful for industries requiring ongoing checks. Sterling’s pricing depends on the requested check, and they offer customized solutions based on individual business requirements.

Key Features:

• Integration with HR systems for easier management
• Workforce monitoring for post-hire checks
• Global screening options with customization

4. GoodHire

Source: GoodHire

GoodHire provides an easy-to-use platform with a transparent pricing structure. Their services start at $29.99 for the Basic+ Package. 

It includes criminal record checks, SSN trace, and sex offender registry searches. The Professional Package, priced at $79.99, adds education and employment verification.

One key feature of GoodHire is its applicant portal, which allows candidates to review their own background check reports.

This promotes transparency between businesses and applicants. GoodHire also offers strong customer support, helping businesses manage their checks more efficiently.

Key Features:

• Transparent pricing and clear package details
• Applicant portal for candidate reviews
• Customizable packages for specific needs

5. First Advantage

Source: First Advantage

First Advantage provides a broad range of screening services, including criminal background checks, credit history checks, and drug testing. 

Their solutions cater to industry-specific needs, including healthcare, education, and finance.

Their pricing starts at $29 per report, and the platform includes additional features such as Form I-9 compliance and drug testing for companies that need more extensive onboarding solutions.

Key Features:

• Industry-specific screening solutions
• Onboarding tools, including Form I-9 compliance
• Scalable services for businesses of different sizes

6. Accurate

Source: Accurate

Accurate provides basic checks, such as SSN trace and county criminal searches, as well as more advanced options, including global watchlist searches and seven-year criminal history reports.

Accurate’s platform tracks the progress of their background checks in real-time. It is useful for managing multiple candidates.

The company also offers compliance tools for businesses conducting international hires. Their Premium Package, priced at $80.68, includes more extensive checks for global hiring needs.

Key Features:

• Real-time tracking of background check progress
• Compliance tools for global hiring
• Flexible packages for various business needs

7. IntelliCorp

Source: IntelliCorp

IntelliCorp provides a range of background screening products designed for industries with specific needs, such as healthcare, employment, and tenant screening.

The Standard package includes SSN verification, government sanctions search, and criminal database checks.

Meanwhile, their Premium package provides a more detailed review, including federal criminal record searches, employment verification, and education verification.

IntelliCorp also allows businesses to customize their background checks with add-ons, including motor vehicle reports, professional reference checks, and drug screening.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive screening reports
• Customizable screening options for specific needs
• Strong customer service and support

8. Peopletrail

Source: Peopletrail

Peopletrail provides compliance-focused background screening services for industries such as HR, staffing, non-profits, government, and sports.

The platform integrates with over 100 ATS and HRIS systems, including Workday, Oracle Taleo, UKG, Icims, and Neogov.

Options include the Bronze Check at $19.95, with national criminal searches, SSN verification, and sex offender registry checks.

The Silver Check at $29.95 adds a credit report and FICO® score, while the Gold Check at $59.95 includes alias name verification and court-verified records.

Key Features:

• Compliance-focused screening
• Integration with over 100 ATS and HRIS platforms
• In-house customer support with fast response times

9. Checkr

Source: Checkr

Checkr offers automated background checks using advanced technology, providing reliable results in high-volume screening.

The platform integrates with various HR systems, allowing companies to efficiently manage the background check process.

Its Basic+ plan ($29.99 per check) includes an SSN trace, checks of the sex offender registry, a global watchlist search, and national criminal searches. The Essential plan ($54.99 per check) builds on this by adding county criminal searches for more in-depth results.

The Professional plan ($79.99 per check) includes all features from the Essential plan, while also offering education and employment verification.

Key Features:

• Automated background checks
• HR software integration
• Adjudication tools and workforce monitoring

10. Verified Credentials

Source: Verified Credentials

Verified Credentials offers background screening solutions for various industries, including employment, education, healthcare, and government.

It provides employment screening, volunteer screening, and student requirement management, along with bulk screening for large-scale hiring.

Other services include drug testing, I-9 verification through E-Verify, and social media screening. For international hires, international screening covers global checks, while continuous MVR monitoring tracks drivers’ motor vehicle records.

The platform integrates with ATS and HRIS systems, providing a technology platform for managing checks, tracking progress, and generating reports. 

Candidates can submit information through the candidate portal, and the background check API allows for advanced integration.

Key Features:

• Bulk screening for high-volume needs
• ATS and HRIS integration
• Real-time tracking and candidate portal

What Services Do Pre-Employment Background Check Companies Offer?

Pre-employment background check services helps businesses verify the information provided by candidates.

These services are used to confirm qualifications and identify any issues that may affect hiring. The type of service required depends on the role, industry standards, and legal requirements.

Criminal Records Checks

One of the main services offered is criminal background checks. This involves searching national, state, and local databases to identify any past offenses.

Companies may also use national criminal record searches or global background checks to review criminal history for international candidates. This type of check is used to look for:

• felonies
• misdemeanors
• other legal infractions relevant to the job

Employment and Education Verification

Another key service is employment background checks, where the company verifies past employment details such as job titles, dates, and responsibilities.

This service helps confirm whether the candidate’s work history aligns with the details provided.

Education verification works similarly by directly confirming degrees, certifications, or specialized training with institutions. 

Drug Testing and Occupational Health Screening

Drug tests review whether candidates meet health-related requirements, while occupational health screenings may involve physical exams or job-related health assessments.

These services help meet industry requirements and maintain workplace safety.

Credit History and Financial Checks

Credit history checks are common in sectors such as finance. These checks review the candidate’s financial background, such as:

• payment history
• outstanding debts
• bankruptcies

Credit reports provide insight into financial responsibility, which may be necessary for positions involving financial management or access to sensitive financial information.

Motor Vehicle Reports and Driving Records

Businesses may request motor vehicle reports for roles that involve driving. These reports review driving history, checking for traffic violations, accidents, or license suspensions.

They are required for positions like delivery drivers or transportation workers, where safe driving is a key part of the job.

Global and International Background Check Services

International background checks provide access to global databases. These checks review the candidate’s criminal, employment, and education history from international sources.

Global background checks are used when candidates have lived, worked, or studied in multiple countries.

Social Media and Online Presence Screening

Some companies also offer social media screening to review a candidate’s online presence.

This service looks at publicly available social media activity to identify anything that may affect the company or role. This service is becoming more common in fields where public image is important.

Specialized Industry-Specific Services

Certain industries have specific requirements for background checks. For example, healthcare companies may need professional license verification to confirm that a candidate holds the necessary credentials.

Other industries may require sex offender registry searches or government sanctions checks to meet legal and regulatory standards.

How Do Pre-Employment Background Check Companies Work?

Pre-employment background check companies provide tools that allow businesses to verify the accuracy of candidate information.

The background check process involves gathering data from public records, employment history, and criminal records to confirm the details provided by the applicant.

The Background Check Process

The process begins with collecting basic details such as identity verification and employment background screening.

Companies often conduct criminal background checks, searching through national criminal record searches and databases for offenses.

Checks for roles requiring specific qualifications might include education verification and professional references. Depending on the industry, drug testing or motor vehicle reports may also be part of the review.

Data Sources and Screening Tools

Companies offering background check services access various databases to collect information. This includes searches through:

• Court records
• Property records
• Social Security number traces

For companies operating globally, global background checks and international background checks expand the data sources to provide a broader review.

Screening may also include a sex offender registry search, negative media search, or a global watchlist search.

User-Friendly Platforms for Businesses

Many background screening providers offer an easy-to-use interface that simplifies the process of requesting checks.

Employers can often receive background check reports through online candidate portals, with features like downloadable report files for convenience.

This allows businesses to review detailed reports with ease, and some platforms include built-in compliance tools to help meet legal standards, such as those outlined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Detailed Reports for Informed Hiring Decisions

Once the checks are complete, background check companies provide reports that summarize the findings.

These reports may include criminal history, employment checks, or credit history information. Businesses rely on these reports to make informed hiring decisions based on verified information.

Why Should Businesses Use Pre-Employment Background Check Companies?

Pre-employment background screening companies provide businesses with verified information on candidates, helping them make informed decisions during the hiring process. These services allow businesses to verify the accuracy of the details provided by candidates.

Verifying Information for Informed Decisions

By conducting an employment background check service, businesses confirm that the information applicants provide matches their background. 

A detailed background check report gives businesses the necessary information to assess whether a candidate meets the job’s requirements.

Reducing Risks Related to Unverified Data

Hiring candidates without verifying their background may lead to complications. 

Pre-employment background checks offer a way to access criminal records, drug testing, and motor vehicle reports, allowing businesses to assess a candidate’s suitability for the role.

Some industries require specific checks, such as tenant background checks or medical screening, to reduce risks. 

Background screening companies provide this information, helping businesses avoid potential legal or workplace issues.

Compliance with Legal Regulations

Using background check sites helps businesses stay within legal boundaries by complying with regulations like the Fair Credit Reporting Act and following guidelines set by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Many background check services include compliance features that assist businesses in conducting background checks while adhering to legal requirements, especially when handling international background checks or reviewing public records.

Access to Comprehensive Data

Partnering with background check sites offers businesses access to various information, such as:

• Global background checks
• Sex offender registry searches
• National criminal record searches

These providers also offer options for searching public records, reviewing county court records, and conducting negative media searches. 

The data is usually available through easy-to-use interfaces, with options for downloadable report files.

How to Select the Right Pre-Employment Background Check Company

Choosing the right pre-employment background check company involves a careful evaluation of various factors that suit your business needs.

1. Identify Your Business Needs

Start by outlining what types of background checks are required for the roles you are hiring for. Different positions may require different levels of screening.

Identifying your specific needs will help narrow down which services you should focus on when evaluating providers.

2. Research Available Providers

Research different background check companies to understand what services they offer.

Look for providers that match the services you need, such as criminal background checks, education verification, or international background checks. Compare features such as:

• Report accuracy
• Speed of results
• Pricing and service inclusions

3. Evaluate the Range of Services

Check if the company offers a wide range of services that meet your requirements. If your company operates globally, consider providers offering global background checks.

Some providers may also offer industry-specific services, which could be important depending on the roles you are hiring for.

4. Review Compliance Standards

The company must comply with regulations such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines.

This protects your business from legal issues related to hiring. Choose a provider that follows all rules and provides reports that align with regulations.

5. Compare Pricing Options

Look at the pricing structures of various providers. Some companies offer pay-as-you-go pricing, while others provide subscription models.

Evaluate which option fits your hiring volume and budget. Also, any additional costs for services like drug testing or global background checks should be considered.

6. Check for Customer Support and User Experience

The background check process should be straightforward for your HR team. Look for providers offering user-friendly platforms with features like real-time tracking and downloadable report files.

Testing out the platform with a demo or trial run could give you a better idea of how easy it is to use.

Verify With Stellar Background Checks

Stellar Background Checks helps companies make the winning hire with our comprehensive background check services.

We prioritize speed, accuracy, and compliance when generating background check reports to ensure you make confident hiring decisions. 

Onboard top-tier talent quickly by filling out this form or contacting us at 1-800-301-4140.

FAQs About Pre-Employment Background Check Companies

How long do pre-employment background checks usually take?

The time frame for completing pre-employment background checks depends on the type of screening requested. Basic checks, such as criminal background checks or SSN traces, typically take 1-3 business days.

More comprehensive checks, like education verification or international background checks, can take longer, sometimes up to a week or more. The processing time may also depend on how quickly the necessary records can be retrieved from external sources.

Can candidates dispute the results of a background check?

Yes, candidates have the right to dispute the results of a background check if they believe the information is inaccurate. Candidates can request a copy of the report and dispute any incorrect details with the company. The company must investigate and correct the information if needed.

What information can a background check company legally provide?

Background check companies can provide a wide range of information, but they must comply with local, state, and federal regulations. Common details include criminal records, employment history, education history, and credit information.

Some checks may also include motor vehicle reports, drug testing, or professional license verification. Sensitive information like medical records or salary history is generally excluded unless specifically required by law or industry standards.

Can background check companies provide information on past bankruptcies?

Yes, background checks can include information on past bankruptcies, typically as part of a credit history check. Bankruptcy records are public information and background screening companies may include this information when conducting checks for roles involving financial responsibilities.

Are background checks required for all positions?

Not all positions require background checks, but many industries mandate specific screenings. For example, roles in healthcare or public safety often require criminal background checks, professional license verification, or drug testing. Other industries may only require basic checks.