Top Background Check Services for Small Businesses in 2025

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

• Importance of background checks for organizational integrity.
• Key features to look for: compliance, integration, and customization.
• Top services include GoodHire, Checkr, Certn, Mitratech, and First Advantage.
• Utilize automation to enhance recruitment efficiency.
• Focus on maintaining a positive candidate experience.

Understanding the Importance of Background Checks in Recruitment

Background checks are essential for verifying candidate credentials, ensuring workplace safety, and maintaining organizational integrity. According to the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS), approximately 80% of organizations conduct background checks on potential employees. As small businesses navigate competitive recruitment, having access to efficient and compliant solutions is crucial.

At Exact Background Check, we understand these requirements deeply. Our expertise in cutting-edge AI consulting and workflow automation allows us to deliver tailored background check solutions that meet the specific needs of small businesses. By leveraging platforms that excel in accuracy, speed, and integration, we help our clients make informed hiring decisions confidently.

Top Background Check Services for Small Businesses in 2025

1. GoodHire

GoodHire consistently stands out as one of the best background check services for small businesses in 2025, thanks to its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing.

• Key Strengths: It is praised for transparent pricing and strong compliance support tools. According to Money.com, GoodHire’s offerings cater perfectly to small businesses’ needs.
• Packages:
  – Basic+ ($29.99/report): Includes SSN trace, sex offender registry checks, global watchlist screening, and access to national criminal databases.
  – Essential ($54.99/report): Adds unlimited county criminal searches.
  – Complete ($89.99/report): Full access to unlimited state and federal criminal searches.
• Notable Features: GoodHire features an intuitive dashboard accessible via web and mobile, built-in FCRA compliance, tailored industry packages, and effective adverse action workflows. Its integration with existing HR tools simplifies the hiring process, saving precious time.

2. Checkr

Checkr’s rapid growth in popularity can be attributed to its speed, automation, and scalability—especially favorable for small businesses on an upward trajectory.

• Key Strengths: Checkr is often recommended for organizations looking for seamless workflow integrations due to its customizable packages starting at $29.99/check. The platform is recognized for its fast turnaround times and effective compliance measures (ScoutLogic).
• Key Features: Checkr offers machine learning tools for accuracy and boasts rapid results, with 89% of criminal checks completed within one hour. The mobile portal allows candidates to monitor their background checks, ensuring transparency in the recruitment process.

3. Certn

For small businesses seeking a self-service and user-friendly platform, Certn is an ideal choice.

• Key Strengths: This platform focuses on fast, customizable, and comprehensive checks that leverage AI-driven reporting. Certn provides a robust interface that lets users tailor their screenings (Checkr).
• Notable Features: Certn supports a wide variety of screening options, including criminal, employment, and education verifications. Its intuitive setup is designed especially for small businesses aiming for quick resolutions without compromising thoroughness.

4. Mitratech (AssureHire)

Mitratech is recognized for its commitment to compliance and intelligent automation.

• Key Strengths: This service is PBSA/SOC2 certified, ensuring high compliance with relevant regulations. Employers appreciate that 98% of reports are delivered within 72 hours (Recruiters Lineup).
• Notable Features: AssureHire integrates seamlessly with HR software and focuses on maximizing data security while providing comprehensive searches that include criminal, educational, and employment history.

5. First Advantage

First Advantage provides industry-specific packages that can cater to organizations of various sizes while still prioritizing compliance.

• Key Strengths: Following its acquisition of Sterling Check in 2024, First Advantage has expanded its service capabilities to better address the integrations and needs of various industries (Checkr).
• Notable Features: The service offers compliance management and robust international coverage, making it apt for small businesses with global talent pools.

What to Consider When Choosing a Background Check Service

When selecting a background check provider, small businesses should consider several factors:

1. FCRA Compliance: Ensure that the chosen service adheres to FCRA regulations when performing employment background checks.
2. Integration: Look for platforms that can integrate smoothly with existing HR and ATS systems to streamline hiring processes.
3. Customization: Depending on the nature of the roles being filled, the ability to tailor checks to specific industries can be a considerable advantage.
4. Turnaround Time: Speed can significantly influence the hiring process. A service that delivers quick results can help organizations maintain momentum in their recruitment efforts.
5. Candidate Experience: Solutions that offer candidate mobile portals and clear status updates can enhance transparency and foster a better candidate experience.

Practical Takeaways for Recruiters and HR Professionals

• Prioritize FCRA Compliance: With the legal implications of failing to comply with FCRA regulations, it is crucial to select a service that offers compliance support.
• Utilize AI and Automation: Platforms like Checkr and Certn leverage advanced technology to reduce the time and errors associated with manual checks. Embrace automation to optimize your hiring workflow.
• Engage Candidates: Keep candidates informed at each stage of the background check process to eliminate uncertainty and foster a positive impression of your organization.
• Consider Scalability: As your business grows, so too may your hiring needs. Choose a background check service that can adapt to your scaling requirements, ensuring that you maintain thoroughness and efficiency.

Why Choose Exact Background Check?

At Exact Background Check, we understand that the stakes in hiring are high. Our commitment to providing cutting-edge AI consulting and workflow automation ensures that organizations not only meet their recruitment needs but do so efficiently. By incorporating insights from the best background check services highlighted above, we equip our clients with the tools and strategies necessary to facilitate a successful hiring process.

Call to Action

Are you ready to enhance your recruitment process with reliable background checks? Explore our services today at Exact Background Check, where we provide tailored solutions to fit your specific needs. Contact us for more information and let’s transform your hiring process together!

FAQ

What is a background check?

A background check is a process used by employers to verify a potential employee’s information, including criminal history, credit history, and employment verification, to ensure they are suitable for the job.

Why are background checks important for small businesses?

Background checks help small businesses ensure workplace safety, verify credentials, and maintain compliance with employment laws, ultimately protecting their reputation and integrity.

How can I choose the right background check service?

Consider factors such as FCRA compliance, integration capabilities with your existing systems, customization options for specific roles, turnaround time, and the candidate experience when selecting a background check service.

What can I expect from a background check?

A standard background check may include verification of identity, criminal history, employment history, education, and sometimes credit reports, depending on what the employer deems necessary for the position.