Background Check Cost Guide

Background checks range from $20 for a basic identity check to $500+ for executive-level multi-state criminal, credit, and license verification bundles. This guide estimates your per-hire and annual spend — and includes a compliance checklist.

Select Check Types (typical market pricing)

~$15
~$30
~$25
~$20
~$40
~$30
~$35
~$45
~$50
~$80
~$30
~$20

Volume Inputs

Background Check Cost Estimate

Cost Per Hire
Annual Budget
Checks Selected

Background Check Policy Checklist

  • Background check policy disclosed in writing and acknowledged by candidate
  • Compliant with FCRA — written authorization obtained before running checks
  • Adverse action process documented (pre-adverse notice + 5-day waiting period)
  • Ban-the-box laws reviewed for each state where you hire
  • Credit checks only run for roles where financial access is required (FCRA limits)
  • Drug screening policy compliant with state cannabis laws
  • Results stored securely and separately from the personnel file
  • Consistent policy applied to all candidates for the same role
  • Vendors are FCRA-compliant (check for NAPBS accreditation)