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Illinois Background Check – Everything You Need to Know

Are you curious about the process of performing a background check in Illinois? Well, today is your fortunate day! 

You've come across the most extensive online guide that navigates the complexities of IL background checks and acquaints you with the best background check services for seamless and precise outcomes. 

It's crucial to acknowledge that searching public records in Illinois is more intricate than it seems. 

Even though they are considered public knowledge, the manual process of sifting through countless records and information to reveal particular background information about a person can be challenging and time-consuming, similar to locating a small object in a large stack of hay. 

Our suggested Illinois background verification services stand out as the perfect remedy, granting you immediate access to detailed data within seconds.

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7 Best Background Check Illinois Services 

What Is a Background Check Illinois?

Conducting a background check in Illinois involves thoroughly examining an individual's details within the public records at the state and national levels. Utilizing different identifying factors such as name, telephone number, or email address can yield a plethora of data through searching public records. 

A search of Illinois' public records reveals extensive information, encompassing personal particulars, work and educational history, potential family members and connections, past addresses, legal and courthouse documents, details from the sex offender registry list, social media accounts, and property ownership records.

Manually combing through public records can be a challenging and unpredictable endeavor. Utilizing Illinois background check services offers a more dependable method for acquiring precise background information. 

These services use the given ID details to scour their vast repository, which includes billions of federal and Illinois public records. The gathered data is then consolidated into a well-structured background check document that’s readily understandable and shareable with others.

A standard Illinois background check report may include the following:

  • A full name
  • Age
  • Aliases
  • Photographs
  • Criminal and arrest records
  • Civil court records
  • Educational background
  • Financial assets
  • Liens
  • Bankruptcies
  • Weapons permits
  • Professional licenses
  • Social media profiles

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How to Run an Illinois Background Check?

Conducting an Illinois background check can be approached in two ways: the challenging method and the effortless approach. 

The difficult route involves laborious tasks like contacting relevant public institutions, filing record requests, and meticulously sifting through obtained records to procure specific details.

On the other hand, opting for the convenient option offers a more straightforward process. Utilizing a people search platform such as BeenVerified allows for seamless execution of an Illinois background check. 

Simply inputting the individual's name, city, or phone number into the search tool or using reverse email lookup tools for email addresses provides a hassle-free experience.

Once the essential details are submitted, the IL background check service will thoroughly search its sources. Although it might take a bit longer, an extended time frame suggests that a significant volume of genuine information is being gathered.

How Can I Access Public Records in Illinois?

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) regulates access to public records in Illinois. It allows people to examine government records held by state and local agencies, with specific exemptions applied.

To access public records in Illinois, follow these steps:

  • Identify the agency: Determine the agency or department likely to possess the records you seek, whether a state agency, local government entity, or even a school district.
  • Prepare a written request: Draft a written request specifying the records you wish to access. Ensure it includes pertinent details such as names, dates, and other information aiding the agency in locating the records. Sample request forms can be found on the Illinois Attorney General's website.
  • Submit your request: Dispatch your request to the appropriate agency through the mail, email address, fax, or in-person submission. Verify the preferred method of compliance on the agency's website or by contacting them directly.
  • Await agency response: The agency is required to respond within five business days. They may grant access to the records, deny access based on a valid exemption, or request an extension if more complex documents need additional processing.
  • Appeal a denial, if necessary: In case of a denial, you can appeal the decision. The Illinois Attorney General's Public Access Counselor (PAC) oversees FOIA compliance and aids in dispute resolution. You can request a review with the PAC within 60 days of the denial.
  • Review the records:  Upon approval, you can examine the records at the agency's office or request copies for a reasonable fee. The agency may also provide electronic copies if available.

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Illinois Background Check Laws

The Fair Credit Reporting Act

Your Illinois company is not only subject to the state laws governing employee background checks but also has to adhere to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

A key obligation under the FCRA of employee background checks is giving advance notice to the employee if you intend on using a third-party provider for the review.

If a prospective employee refuses consent for a background check during your company’s hiring process, you can treat their job application as withdrawn.

Title VII

In 1964, the Civil Rights Act's Title VII became a pivotal law prohibiting workplace discrimination against employees and job seekers in all states, including Illinois, based on their protected statuses. 

The enforcement of this law falls under the jurisdiction of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), a federal agency responsible for promulgating associated regulations. 

Notably, Title VII and its regulations address criminal history details that could surface during pre-employment background checks in Illinois. The EEOC has guided employers regarding appropriately handling arrest and criminal conviction details discovered in background checks.

As per the EEOC, it’s essential to evaluate criminal and traffic records obtained from pre-employment background checks in Illinois on a case-by-case basis, particularly concerning the specific role for which the candidate is under consideration, before deciding to hire them based on such information.

It’s of utmost importance to highlight that using background check services that do not conform to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is strictly forbidden. Adherence to FCRA regulations when conducting background checks is imperative.

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Illinois SB 1480

The EEOC has guided employers regarding appropriately handling arrest and criminal conviction details discovered in background checks.

Per the EEOC, it’s essential to evaluate criminal and traffic records obtained from pre-employment background checks in Illinois on a case-by-case basis, particularly concerning the specific role for which the candidate is under consideration, before hiring them based on such information.

It’s of utmost importance to highlight that using background check services that do not conform to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is strictly forbidden. Adherence to FCRA regulations when conducting background checks is imperative.

Employers need to consider six factors when deciding if there’s a significant connection between the conviction and the job position.

  • How long ago the conviction occurred
  • How many convictions the person has
  • The severity and nature of the conviction and how it relates to the safety of others
  • The facts and circumstances of the conviction
  • How old the applicant was when the belief happened
  • Any efforts made to rehabilitate
  • Suppose the employer determines there’s a substantial relationship between the conviction and the job. In that case, the employer must go through an adverse action procedure similar to what is required under the FCRA.

The legislation states that employers mandated to reject candidates based on specific convictions are exempted. 

For instance, certain healthcare employers must consider disqualifying offenses under the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

It's crucial to emphasize that using background check services that don't adhere to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is completely prohibited. Ensuring FCRA compliance is extremely important when carrying out background checks.

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How Far Back Does a Background Check Go in Illinois?

The FCRA imposes constraints on disclosing non-conviction criminal arrests that took place over seven years ago. However, individual states can establish their temporal boundaries for background checks independent of the FCRA’s restrictions.

Illinois has no limitations on how far back a background check can reach to uncover past criminal convictions.

What Can You Find With a Background Check Illinois?

Discovering the wealth of details that an Illinois background check can unveil would surely surprise you. When you use a top-notch people search platform like BeenVerified or TruthFinder, a thorough background check dossier can give you glimpses into someone's history.

Personal Information

In the initial part of each background check report, a segment specifically focuses on personal details to facilitate detailed identification. 

This segment commonly comprises information like the person's name, age, birth records, any alternative words they may use, and visual references such as pictures. These components are crucial in confirming your identification of the right person.

Jobs and Education

Furthermore, you can discover additional information about the person's academic history and career path, including their schools and prior work locations. 

Nevertheless, it's crucial to note that using this data for checking potential employees or tenants is permissible only if the background check provider you use adheres to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulations.

Possible Relatives and Associates

In this segment, you'll delve into an intriguing investigation of the individual's social and work-related circles. It offers a collection of possible relatives, companions, and associates associated with the person.

This valuable information can deliver a more profound comprehension of their interpersonal bonds and professional affiliations. 

Additionally, if you're conducting a background examination on a family member, you could come across your background review report, introducing an absorbing element to the inquiry and illuminating familial associations.

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Contact Information

In this segment, you'll delve into an intriguing investigation of the individual's social and work-related circles. It offers a collection of possible relatives, companions, and associates associated with the specific person. 

This valuable information can deliver a more profound comprehension of their interpersonal bonds and professional affiliations. 

Additionally, if you're conducting a background examination on a family member, you could come across your background review report, introducing an absorbing element to the inquiry and illuminating familial associations.

Criminal and Traffic Records

Conducting a thorough background check in Illinois requires delving into the extensive array of criminal and arrest records meticulously compiled from the public archives of the state's law enforcement agencies and courts. 

These repositories offer crucial insights, furnishing details such as the nature, timing, and site of perpetrated transgressions. 

Furthermore, in cases where legal action was taken against the individual, one can unearth pertinent particulars like the lawsuit identifier and the specific court where judicial proceedings took place. 

By encompassing these components, an all-encompassing background check guarantees a comprehensive scrutiny of an individual's criminal past within Illinois.

Property Information

This segment is a priceless asset in evaluating an individual's financial stability. It offers a wealth of relevant information that can illuminate their economic position. 

From extensive property possession particulars such as property tax documentation, selling prices, and land assessments to insights about mortgages and possessed vehicles, encompassing vehicle identification numbers (VINs), this segment presents a comprehensive perspective on the person's financial condition. 

This data is precious in assessing their fiscal well-being.

Related Links

In this segment, we embarked on a journey across the expansive realm of the online world, hunting for any digital traces that might guide us to the individual we seek. 

It reveals various possible findings, from social media accounts and articles to personal web pages and engaging weblogs. By untangling these digital strands, we can acquire valuable perspectives into the person's internet footprint and reveal intriguing facets of their existence.

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How Long Does a Background Check Take In Illinois?

The time required for an IL background check differs based on the chosen approach. Opting for a top-notch people search platform such as BeenVerified enables you to rapidly access a thorough background check dossier. 

This facilitates the seamless conduct of numerous checks and the acquisition of in-depth findings. Conversely, electing to go the manual route can extend the duration for conducting an Illinois background check up to one to three working days.

7 Best Services for Background Check Illinois 

Undertaking a comprehensive investigation into background checks in Illinois, we meticulously analyze the leading services in this domain. 

Our assessment includes a detailed evaluation of the distinct features of each service, showcasing their individual qualities. Furthermore, we strive to identify the most suitable people search platform for particular needs related to background checks in Illinois.

BeenVerified – Best Overall for Background Check Illinois 

BeenVerified logo

When discussing Illinois background checks, BeenVerified is a prominent provider renowned for its wide array of search choices. They grant entry to diverse categories of searches, such as Illinois criminal and traffic records, court records, public records, and more. 

This empowers users to acquire a thorough understanding of an individual's background. By tapping into billions of Illinois public records and dependable information outlets, BeenVerified guarantees the precision of their reports.

One key benefit of BeenVerified is its user-friendly interface. It’s tailored to facilitate quick and effortless searches by offering an intuitive layout and clear instructions. Whether new or seasoned on the platform, navigating it and delving into the reports is smooth. 

Additionally, BeenVerified presents cost-effective pricing options that include monthly subscriptions and pay-per-search alternatives; this makes it viable for individuals or businesses operating within budget constraints.

BeenVerified also offers friendly customer support. If you encounter any inquiries or issues while conducting the background check, their proficient team is ready to help. They can offer advice on effectively utilizing the platform and aiding in understanding the details presented in the reports.

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PeopleLooker – Best Background Check Illinois for Quick & Detailed Results

When conducting background checks in Illinois, PeopleLooker proves to be a dependable option. This service for searching public records in Illinois allows users to obtain crucial details about people, such as their criminal past and contact information.

By providing extensive access to various public records in Illinois, including criminal and court records, among others, PeopleLooker distinguishes itself by furnishing thorough background check reports that outshine the offerings of numerous competitors.

The simple-to-navigate platform ensures a smooth and uncomplicated experience, even for individuals or businesses with a limited understanding of background checks. 

This user-friendly nature is especially advantageous for those needing background checks but needing more substantial prior knowledge.

PeopleLooker provides a range of adaptable pricing choices for their Illinois background check solutions, addressing diverse requirements and financial plans. 

With their cost-effective rates, they ensure accessibility to both individuals and businesses with different budgetary limitations.

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TruthFinder – Best Value for Money

TruthFinder is the top choice for conducting background checks in Illinois, offering a user-friendly platform that enables simple searches using names, phone numbers, or email addresses. 

With access to an extensive source of public records in Illinois, TruthFinder provides a substantial amount of precise information about individuals.

TruthFinder's standout feature lies in integrating a dark web surveillance tool, granting access to data that might not be easily obtainable on other areas of the internet. 

Regarding cost, TruthFinder presents a monthly membership priced at $28.05, and opting for a two-month subscription totals $46.56. To understand why TruthFinder is the premier option for background checks in Illinois, we suggest immersing yourself in our comprehensive review of TruthFinder.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use TruthFinder or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

>> Try TruthFinder >>

Intelius – Best Illinois  Background Check Service for Accuracy

Intelius emerges as a strong contender in Illinois for performing background checks, aligning it with BeenVerified. This nationwide search service has built a name for itself by providing precise results. 

Like BeenVerified, Intelius flaunts an expansive repository comprising over 20 billion public records. This ensures that users can easily tap into a wide array of information about individuals in Illinois.

Intelius provides a more budget-friendly alternative to TruthFinder regarding pricing, offering a monthly package at $21.13. Choosing the two-month subscription results in a total of $42.25. 

Despite its similarities with TruthFinder, Intelius does not include the dark web monitoring feature, contributing to its slightly reduced price point. 

For an extensive evaluation of the platform and its appropriateness for background checks in Illinois, we suggest referring to our comprehensive Intelius review.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use Intelius or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Intelius does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

>> Check Out Intelius >>

Instant Checkmate – Best for Illinois  Background Check Service for Speed

Instant Checkmate is the premier option for swiftly acquiring background check outcomes in Illinois. This specific service prioritizes convenience, providing rapid results and a distinctive mobile app feature that differentiates it from other background check services in Illinois.

Drawing on an extensive government record repository, Instant Checkmate can deliver precise background information with exceptional effectiveness. It's essential to note that this service is positioned at the upper echelon of the price range, featuring a monthly subscription priced at $35.12

Although it does not provide a two-month option, it offers an alternative through its three-month package, available for $84.28. Beyond its swiftness and precision, Instant Checkmate places a high priority on safeguarding your data. We suggest delving into our comprehensive review of Instant Checkmate for a more thorough insight.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use Instant Checkmate or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Instant Checkmate does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

>> Check Out Instant Checkmate >>

Spokeo – Best for Illinois  Background Check Service for Reverse Email Lookup

Leverage the potential of reverse email lookup to transform the approach to conducting background checks using an individual's email address. 

Spokeo stands out as the premier choice for email lookup among a range of options, specifically designed to meet business research requirements and lead generation in Illinois, revolutionizing the process.

Spokeo goes beyond just searching for email addresses. It provides a detailed range of tools for finding names, phone numbers, and physical addresses, positioning itself as a top-notch option for conducting background checks in Illinois. 

Notably, Spokeo prides itself on offering one of the most budget-friendly monthly subscription rates, commencing at $19.99. 

For individuals interested in a longer commitment, their three-month package is economical at $44.85, further affirming Spokeo's status as one of Illinois's most affordable background check services. 

For a more detailed assessment, we encourage you to explore our extensive review of Spokeo.

>> Check Out Spokeo >>

US Search – Best for Illinois  Background Check Service for API Integration

Streamline the background check process effortlessly using US Search's convenient quick start wizard. What distinguishes US Search is its reimbursement guarantee, assuring customer contentment if the service fails to fulfill expectations. 

Although its online platform may seem simpler than other companies, it remains a dependable choice for fundamental background checks in Illinois. The monthly subscription is competitively priced at $19.86 for individuals needing numerous searches or a lasting resolution. 

To acquire a more profound insight into US Search and its features, we recommend taking some time to peruse the comprehensive review of US Search.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use US Search or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. US Search does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

>> Check Out US Search>>

Illinois Public Records Search - Frequently Asked Questions

Below are commonly asked queries regarding background checks in Illinois. These will assist in addressing any inquiries that still need to be resolved.

Can I Get a Free Background Check Illinois?

Conducting a thorough investigation into a person's background in Illinois entails navigating through a substantial volume of information.

This can be pretty challenging when seeking out service providers that furnish dependable background check reports without any cost. When contemplating using a no-cost background check in IL, exercising prudence and thoroughly assessing the service's credibility is crucial.

In reality, complimentary background checks in Illinois often need more thoroughness and precision found in more exclusive options. 

The valuable insights provided by reputable background check platforms like TruthFinder are typically inaccessible without payment. To gain further insight into this subject, exploring top-notch free background check websites is recommended to make an informed decision.

>> Check Out BeenVerified  >>

How Much Is a Background Check Illinois?

If you choose TruthFinder or Intelius for conducting a background check in Illinois, you must enroll in their monthly subscription, priced between $24 and $28. Subscribing offers the advantage of running unlimited background checks within one month.

What Background Check Service Is Best for Illinois?

In Illinois background check services, there is a standout: TruthFinder

This service distinguishes itself through its vast repository of public records, inclusive phone and email address search capabilities, and the additional safeguard of dark web monitoring, placing TruthFinder at the forefront. 

Following closely behind is Intelius, known for its exceptional user interface and a slightly more economical price point. These premium services provide people with practical and precise means to conduct background checks in Illinois.

Bottom Line on Background Check Illinois 

Envision embarks on a thrilling expedition of conducting an Illinois background check, whether it's for professional investigation, reestablishing connections with a long-lost acquaintance, or unraveling the reality about a potential companion. 

But brace yourself for the challenging journey ahead. Visualize navigating through a complex network of governmental facilities, persistently filing document requests, and disbursing charges at every twist and turn.

Your odyssey is far from reaching its conclusion, Even after acquiring those invaluable records after persistent efforts. Now begins the arduous task of diligently scrutinizing the documents for the elusive information you seek. 

However, fear not! The saviors of background check services stand ready to assist you! Witness the enchantment unfold before your eyes by just inputting your subject's name, contact number, email address, or physical location.

Instantly, a comprehensive IL background check dossier materializes before you, bestowing upon you the knowledge you are pursuing.

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DISCLAIMER: You may not use the non-FCRA approved services mentioned in this article or the information they provide to decide about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. These services don’t provide consumer reports and are not consumer reporting agencies. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.) 

The information available on our website may not be 100% accurate, complete, or up to date, so do not use it as a substitute for your own due diligence, especially if you have concerns about a person’s criminal history. The services we mention do not make any representation or warranty about the accuracy of the information available through our website or about the character or integrity of the person about whom you inquire. For more information, please review each service’s Terms of Use.

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