How Much Do Background Investigations Cost?
Learn what businesses typically pay for background investigations, what affects the scope and price, and how to compare provider quotes.
Common jobs and what they cost
| Job | What it involves | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Identity and database check | Identity trace and database search | $20 - $50 per person |
| Basic criminal-record check | County or national criminal searches | $30 - $80 per person |
| Employment and education verification | Past employer and credential checks | $50 - $150 per person |
| Comprehensive investigation | Multiple jurisdictions and detailed verification | $100 - $300+ per person |
Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.
What moves the price
Price depends on the number and type of searches, how many jurisdictions need to be checked, and whether records require manual review. Employment, education, professional license, and reference verification usually add work beyond a basic identity or criminal-record search.
Turnaround time, difficult-to-match records, and the provider's research methods can also affect a quote. Requirements differ by state and by intended use, so businesses should confirm that the scope and process fit applicable rules.
How to keep the cost down
Decide which checks are relevant before requesting quotes, and ask providers to itemize each search, any court or database fees, and charges for extra research. Avoid paying for broad packages that include checks your hiring or screening process does not need.
Compare the same scope and turnaround across providers, and ask whether repeat checks or multiple candidates qualify for lower rates. Quotes from checked, reviewed providers on Reedleys are easier to compare because you can assess the provider alongside the stated scope and fees.
Price questions, answered
Many charge when an order is placed or bill business clients on an agreed schedule. Confirm payment terms, cancellation rules, and whether outside record fees are billed separately.
A quote may cover only a database search or include county-level research and direct verification. Check the jurisdictions, checks, turnaround, and possible add-on fees before comparing totals.
Ask for written authorization and a clear scope before work begins. For employment screening, confirm the process meets applicable consent and notice requirements.
Recognized Background Investigations businesses
Employment screening and human resource solutions for employers in Philadelphia and beyond.
Training provider for Tribal organizations, with courses in background investigations, adjudication, and fingerprinting.
Employee screening provider offering workplace drug testing, background screening, and DOT compliance programs.
A Wichita private investigation business offering case investigations, process serving, background information services, and mobile notary work.
Chicago security agency offering investigations, fingerprinting, background checks, security officers, and training.
Brooklyn private investigation firm offering claims investigations, surveillance, background checks, skip tracing, and legal support.
Phoenix private investigators offering statewide investigative services, including surveillance and background checks.
A Miami security and private investigation firm offering property protection and investigative services.
A Jacksonville security and private investigative agency offering protective services, patrols, and investigations.
Maryland private investigative agency serving the Baltimore region.