Screenshot
Checkr has emerged as a transformative platform in the background-check industry, streamlining the hiring process through automation and sophisticated data analysis. By utilizing a vast array of official databases—including county courts and criminal registries—Checkr produces timely and accurate background reports. This innovative service is particularly advantageous for companies with high hiring volumes, such as gig platforms and retail chains, where quick and reliable checks are essential.
Comprehensive Pricing and Plans
Checkr offers a tiered pricing structure that adapts to the specific needs of organizations. The Basic+ Plan is priced at $29.99 per check and includes essential services such as Social Security Number (SSN) trace, sex offender search, and national criminal database screening. For approximately $15 per record, county verifications can be added when necessary.
The Essential Plan, available for $54.99 per check, expands on the Basic+ by including searches for all counties tied to a candidate’s residence over the past seven years. The Professional Plan costs $79.99 per check and adds employment and education verification, providing a more comprehensive overview of candidates. International background checks range from $32 to $124 per report, while add-ons for motor vehicle records (MVR) checks or employment verifications range from $6 to $40. Organizations conducting over 300 checks annually may qualify for volume discounts, allowing for tailored screening programs while managing costs effectively.
Innovative Features and User Experience
Checkr distinguishes itself through its extensive automation and advanced data handling capabilities. The platform employs AI to classify criminal charges, simplifying complex legal terms into consistent and comprehensible summaries. With access to diverse data sources, including county criminal courts and global watchlists, Checkr provides comprehensive results.
The platform seamlessly integrates with over 100 HR systems and applicant tracking systems (ATS), enhancing the efficiency of the hiring pipeline. Automated notifications keep both employers and candidates informed about the background check process, delivering updates, results, and necessary documentation.
Checkr’s web dashboard is designed for clarity and ease of use. Reports are organized into user-friendly panels that highlight pending charges and results needing review. The automation-first design allows HR teams to manage multiple background checks with minimal manual input. Additionally, candidates can monitor their progress and address any discrepancies through a 24/7 self-service portal.
While Checkr excels in automation, the customer support experience relies primarily on a ticket-based system, which may lead to delayed responses during busy periods. This aspect can be a drawback when compared to competitors that offer more immediate support.
Security and Compliance Standards
Checkr prioritizes data security by implementing enterprise-grade measures, including encryption and strict access controls. The company adheres to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring lawful handling of candidates’ data. Candidates must provide explicit consent before a background check is initiated, and adverse action notices are automatically sent to comply with federal and state laws.
Competitive Landscape
Checkr faces competition from companies such as GoodHire, Sterling, and HireRight, each offering employment background screening with varying focuses on compliance and global reach. Checkr’s strengths lie in its automation, rapid data retrieval, and integration capabilities, particularly appealing to tech-forward employers.
When compared to GoodHire, Checkr offers similar pricing structures but lacks the robust customer support that GoodHire provides. GoodHire’s strong U.S.-based support and low error rates may attract smaller businesses needing more hands-on assistance.
Against Sterling, Checkr leads in speed and automation, completing a higher percentage of checks within an hour. However, Sterling’s extensive compliance support may favor larger enterprises requiring tailored verification programs.
In contrast to HireRight, Checkr typically achieves faster turnaround times and a higher “hit rate” for specific criminal searches. HireRight, while offering mature international coverage, may involve slower processing times, which could be a disadvantage for smaller or more agile businesses.
Final Thoughts
Checkr stands at the forefront of background screening innovation. Its emphasis on automation, speed, and user-friendly integration makes it an attractive choice for companies aiming to enhance their hiring processes. Despite certain limitations in human support and compliance in highly regulated sectors, Checkr remains a compelling solution for organizations that prioritize efficiency and accuracy in their hiring operations. For gig employers, startups, and HR teams seeking a balance of cost, functionality, and user experience, Checkr represents a robust option in the evolving landscape of background checks.
