Free Online Background Check

What is a background check?

Broadly speaking, a background check is a way of investigating someone’s character, background and past, using public data sources and reports. Most background checks are generated automatically from data repositories maintained by private companies and state and federal governments.

What’s the difference between public records and a background check?

When people say public records, they are usually referring to civil issues such as lawsuits, traffic tickets, vital records (such as marriage, divorce, birth and death), bankruptcies and the like. When people say background check, they usually have in mind criminal records, warrant searches, arrest records and other criminal information.

Where does all of the information found on a background report come from?

Believe it or not, almost all of this information is public record by law, and is available to anyone who is willing to make the effort to search for it. Some jurisdictions make it incredibly simple, and have dedicated web portals that allow you to search. Others are stuck in the paper age, and often require an on site search in the county courthouse. This can be done by using a “court runner”, as well.

Should I search myself or use an online background check provider?

We’re big fans of free - so if you’re looking for one or two pieces of information, it might be worth your time to see what’s available first online or in your local courthouse. Online background check services really shine in two ways. They spend a fortune sucking up all the data available, something that might take you years or you might not even be able to accomplish with a limited budget at all.

What’s the best background check service?

We try to be unbiased about these things. Every provider has its strengths and weaknesses, depending on how they collect their data and what kind of algorithms they use. If you click on Public Records above in the navigation, we’ve done extensive reviews on all of the big background check providers and you can then decide which one you want to try.