Updated July 21, 2026
The 5 Best Background Check Services of 2026
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- Stand-out choice for detail
- Consistently strong customer feedback
- Competitive pricing for what you get
- Best value may require a longer commitment
- Some advanced features cost extra
- Stand-out choice for unlimited searches
- Consistently strong customer feedback
- Competitive pricing for what you get
- Best value may require a longer commitment
- Some advanced features cost extra
- Stand-out choice for versatility
- Consistently strong customer feedback
- Competitive pricing for what you get
- Best value may require a longer commitment
- Some advanced features cost extra
- Stand-out choice for speed
- Consistently strong customer feedback
- Competitive pricing for what you get
- Best value may require a longer commitment
- Some advanced features cost extra
- Stand-out choice for employers
- Consistently strong customer feedback
- Competitive pricing for what you get
- Best value may require a longer commitment
- Some advanced features cost extra
Still deciding? Compare at a glance
A quick side-by-side of every background check service we ranked.
| Brand | Score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1TruthFinder | 9.1 | from $4.99/mo | Detail | Visit Site |
| #2Instant Checkmate | 8.9 | from $1.99/mo | Unlimited searches | Visit Site |
| #3BeenVerified | 8.8 | ~from $9.99/mo | Versatility | Visit Site |
| #4Intelius | 8.6 | from $0.95/mo | Speed | Visit Site |
| #5Checkr | 8.5 | Starter $24.99/report | Employers | Visit Site |
How we rate background check services
Research
Map the market and shortlist leading brands
Test
Hands-on evaluation across weighted criteria
Score
Standardized 10-point methodology
Update
Re-reviewed as products change
Our editors score every background check service on a standardized 10-point scale across four weighted pillars: features & performance (35%), pricing & value (25%), customer experience & support (25%), and trust & reputation (15%). Scores are reviewed and updated as products change. Read our full methodology.
Frequently asked questions
How did Rated.ly choose the best background check service?
Our editors evaluated each background check service on features, pricing, customer feedback, and overall value, then scored them using our standard 10-point methodology. See our How We Rate page for details.
Which background check service is best overall?
TruthFinder currently earns our top score of 9.1 thanks to its strength in detail. The right pick for you depends on your priorities — compare the full list above.
Ready to choose your background check service?
TruthFinder is our top-rated pick with a score of 9.1/10 — the strongest all-round choice for most people.
Visit TruthFinderDaniel Kovacs
Editor, Money & Auto
Daniel is a consumer-finance writer who has compared hundreds of financial and automotive services. His mission: cut the jargon and show you the true cost of every option.