Best 5 Background Check Softwares in 2026: Compare Tools for Hiring

Introduction

GoodHire stands out for customizable screening packages and status tracking. This roundup compares five background check software providers for different hiring needs. Before choosing one, consider which checks you need, where your candidates are located, and how screening will fit into your hiring process.

Quick comparison

Confirm pricing, location coverage, available checks, and expected turnaround directly with each provider.

1. GoodHire

Best for: Businesses seeking customizable employment screening packages.

GoodHire gives employers a place to manage background checks and track their status. It also connects with ATS and HRIS tools, which may help teams fit screening into their existing hiring process.

One useful feature is the option to customize screening packages. That can help when different roles call for different checks. Before choosing a package, confirm which checks it includes and whether they suit your process. Check availability, coverage, and integration details with the provider, too.

2. ClearStar

Best for: Employers that need a broad range of screening options.

ClearStar offers criminal, credit, motor vehicle, employment, education, credential, and international checks. It also supports connections with ATS and HR systems, giving teams ways to coordinate screening with other hiring tasks.

The range of screening categories is the main appeal. Employers hiring for varied roles or across multiple locations may value having several types of checks available through one provider. Availability can depend on the role and location, so confirm which services cover your candidates and hiring needs before settling on a process.

3. Certn

Best for: Teams choosing between standalone screening and connected workflows.

Certn supports criminal and other background screening checks. Teams can use it on its own or connect it to existing systems through an API or ATS and HRIS integrations.

The API may suit businesses that need screening to fit a specific workflow. But not every team needs an integration. A standalone process may be enough for simpler hiring operations. Check whether your systems need a connection, and confirm which integrations and checks are available for your intended use.

4. IntelliCorp

Best for: Employers focused on core employment screening needs.

IntelliCorp offers employment background-check products that include criminal-record searches, motor vehicle reports, and employment eligibility screening. These services cover several common needs, including checks for driving-related roles and eligibility.

Its combination of criminal, driving, and eligibility screening may suit employers looking to address those needs with one provider. The right mix depends on the roles you’re filling and your hiring process. Confirm which services are available and appropriate before choosing a package or starting checks.

5. First Advantage

Best for: Businesses seeking screening and verification services from one provider.

First Advantage provides employment background screening as well as identity-related services. Depending on your use case, you may be able to handle screening and verification through one provider.

That combination is its main distinction. Before deciding, check which screening and verification services are available for your roles and locations. Ask about coverage, workflow requirements, and how the services would fit with your current hiring process.

How we picked these tools

We focused on providers that serve employment screening needs and offer practical options for business buyers. The comparison looks at the screening categories and workflow features each provider describes, including web access and available API, ATS, or HRIS connections.

Not every buyer needs an integration, so we treat these as workflow considerations, not requirements. We did not rank providers using unverified pricing or turnaround claims. Before purchasing, confirm legal and compliance requirements, candidate notice and consent processes, location coverage, and current service details directly with the provider.

Frequently asked questions

What does background check software do?

Background check software helps employers request and coordinate screening during hiring. Depending on the provider, it may also help teams manage checks and track their status.

Should I choose standalone software or an integration?

A standalone platform may work for a team that manages screening separately. API, ATS, or HRIS connections may suit teams that want screening to fit into existing systems. Check which connections each provider supports.

What should I confirm before buying?

Screening options vary by provider, location, role, and package. Check applicable legal requirements and candidate notice or consent processes, then confirm coverage, pricing, and expected turnaround with the provider.

The verdict

Compare providers against the checks you need, your hiring workflow, and the service details they confirm for your locations. GoodHire offers customizable screening packages, status tracking, and ATS and HRIS integrations. ClearStar has a broad range of screening categories, while Certn offers both standalone access and API, ATS, or HRIS connections. The best fit depends on your requirements.