Does a Background Check Cost Money and How Much Is It?

A background check can cost anywhere from $20 to $200 or more, depending on the type and scope of the check.

Some employers may cover the cost of a background check as part of the hiring process, while others may require the candidate to pay for it themselves.

In the US, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires employers to obtain written consent from job applicants before conducting a background check, and also requires that applicants be informed of the cost.

The cost of a background check can vary depending on several factors.

The type of background check is a significant factor in determining the cost. For example, a motor vehicle background check can cost anywhere from $3 to $10.

Access fees can also add to the overall cost of a background check. These fees can range from a few dollars to $10 or more, depending on the type of check.

The level of detail needed in the report can also affect the cost. More in-depth checks can cost upwards of $100 per employee.

Here are some examples of the average costs of different types of background checks:

Some background check providers also charge extra for expedited processing or accessing specific sources. These costs can vary depending on the provider and the level of service required.

The cost of a background check can vary depending on the type of check and the provider you choose. The average motor vehicle background check costs between $3 and $10.

The cost of a standard background check can range from $30 to $100 per check, depending on the provider and services offered. This typically includes exploration of criminal history, verification of employment and education, and optional credit history.

Some employers may also choose to supplement state searches with county court record searches, which can add to the overall cost. The cost of a background check can vary based on the number of county court record searches requested, with access fees applying to some searches.

Here is a breakdown of the average costs for different types of background checks:

Credit background checks are also available, with costs ranging from $5 to $12 and no access fees applying. Some providers, like Trusted Employees, offer tailored packages that only include what you need, keeping costs low.

Additional fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand what you're getting into. Data access fees charged by courthouses can range from $1 to $65, depending on the county.

Some counties, like those in New York, can be quite pricey. You'll pay a fee for each alias, which means if an applicant has multiple names, you'll be charged for each one.

For example, if an applicant got married and changed their last name, you'll need to order a search on both their current and maiden names. This can add up quickly, with some services charging for each search.

Fortunately, some background screening services, like S2Verify, offer flat rate prices that include fees and aliases. This can be a cost-effective option, especially if you're running multiple searches.

Statewide criminal repository access fees can range from $3 to $65, while accessing MVR records can cost anywhere from $2 to $25, depending on the state. These fees vary by state, county, and data provider.

Background checks can be a crucial step in the hiring process, but they can also come with a cost. The cost of a background check can vary depending on the type of check and the provider you choose.

Pricing is a key factor to consider when selecting a provider. Compare the charges for background checks across various providers, considering the services covered and any potential additional fees. The average motor vehicle background check, for example, can cost between $3 and $10.

The turnaround time for a background check is also an important consideration. Evaluate the average duration for a provider to furnish background check results, especially when swift turnaround times are essential for specific hiring or leasing decisions. Some providers may charge more for faster turnaround times, so be sure to factor this into your decision.

Accuracy is another critical factor to consider. Assess the provider's track record for delivering precise and current background check results, recognizing that unreliable or outdated information could adversely impact decision-making. A reliable provider can help you make informed hiring decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Here's a breakdown of the average costs for different types of verification background checks:

Keep in mind that these costs are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary depending on the provider and the specific services you need. Additionally, some providers may charge access fees for certain types of checks.

A background check can indeed cost money, and the price varies depending on the type and extent of the search. The cost of a basic breakdown of different types of background checks can range from $3 to $10.

A motor vehicle background check, for example, typically costs between $3 and $10, and may also incur access fees. This type of check is often necessary for jobs that require the use of a company vehicle.

The cost of verification background checks depends on the type of verification needed, and can range from $7 to $15 for each check. This includes SSN verification checks, education verification checks, employment verification checks, and professional license checks.

Here's a breakdown of the average costs for each type of verification check:

Extensive background checks, on the other hand, can incur higher costs, ranging from $100 to $300 or more per check, depending on the provider and services provided.

A background check can be a cost-efficient method of finding the right employee, especially when compared to the consequences of making the wrong hire.

The cost of performing a background check is a small price to pay for the relative peace of mind it affords. Having more information about your applicant's background can make you more confident that they're the right fit or not.

The benefits of a background check include getting a comprehensive look at your job candidate's past, which can include public record checks, employment and education verification, reference checks, and credit history reports.