Background Checks · true cost · Updated June 2026
The true cost of background checks
What you'll actually pay. Of the 7 background checks tools we track, 3 publish no self-serve price (quote-only). Here's every tool's entry price and its hidden-cost flags — each linked to its sourced record.
The hidden-cost picture
- No public price: 3 of 7 are quote-only (contact sales).
- Cheapest published: Certn from $13.99/mo.
- No overage or setup fee: Certn, Checkr, GoodHire, Verified First.
As of · re-verified with each catalog refresh
Background Checks — entry price & hidden-cost flags
| Tool | Entry price | Usage overages | Setup fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certn | $13.99/mo | — | — |
| Checkr | $29.99/mo | — | — |
| GoodHire | $29.99/mo | — | — |
| Verified First | $29.99/mo | — | — |
| Accurate Background | Quote-only | — | — |
| HireRight | Quote-only | — | — |
| Sterling (First Advantage) | Quote-only | — | — |
Prices and fee terms re-verified with each catalog refresh. Last catalog update 2026-06-15. "Quote-only" means the vendor publishes no self-serve price.
Frequently asked questions
Does background checks have hidden fees?
Across the 7 background checks tools we track: 3 publish no self-serve price (quote-only). As of 2026-06-15.
What is the cheapest background check with published pricing?
Certn, from $13.99/mo. Verified 2026-06-15.
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