When it comes to hiring, small businesses and HR managers need a screening option that’s both reliable and cost-effective. At National Crime Search (NCS), our Essential Background Check is the next step up from our entry-level Basic package — designed to give you essential criminal history information while including additional verification components that keep you compliant.
For $45.95, the Essential Background Check provides:
- SSN Trace
- Multi-State Criminal Database Search
- One County Criminal Search (based on the applicant’s current residence)
- Two County Courthouse Verification Searches to verify any Multi-State Database hits
Nationwide median turnaround time: just 38 minutes
SSN Trace: The First Step in Any Background Check
The Social Security Number (SSN) Trace checks various public and proprietary databases to determine whether the SSN provided was issued, and if so, when and in what state. Additionally, it helps reveal address history, which is critical in guiding where further criminal record searches should be conducted. If the SSN trace identifies addresses outside the current county, you may choose to expand your search for a more complete picture.
👉 For a detailed explanation of how this works, see our blog: What is an SSN Trace?
Multi-State Criminal Database Search: Wide Coverage, Fast Results
The Multi-State Criminal Database Search offers a broad view of potential criminal records from across the country. This database compiles records from multiple sources, such as:
- State and county court records
- Department of Corrections records
- Sex Offender Registries
- OFAC and other Security Watchlists
While this search casts a wide net, not every jurisdiction reports to a national database. That’s why pairing it with a County Criminal Search — and courthouse verification — is critical.
👉 For more detail on database searches, see our blog: What is a Multi-State Criminal Database Search?
County Criminal Search: Local Accuracy
A County Criminal Search is one of the most accurate sources for criminal record information because it’s conducted directly at the local courthouse. The Essential Background Check includes one county criminal search based on the applicant’s current residence.
👉 For more, check out:
What is a County Criminal Search?
Why Should I Include a County Criminal Search in My Screening Process?
County Courthouse Verification Searches: Compliance Made Easy
This is where the Essential sets itself apart. In addition to the core searches above, it includes two County Criminal Verifications of Multi-State Database hits.
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), certain criminal records found in a database must be verified directly at the source before they can be reported. As a PBSA-accredited provider, NCS follows this best practice for every Essential package.
Our trained court researchers pull the most current, official information — directly from the courthouse — to ensure:
- The record matches your applicant
- The information is current and legally reportable
- You remain compliant with FCRA requirements
*County fees may apply
Why Choose the Essential Background Check?
The Essential Background Check is ideal if you:
- Need a quick, affordable way to screen potential hires
- Want essential criminal history coverage with built-in compliance
- Want peace of mind that potential database hits are verified at the source
- Prefer a package that can be expanded later if needed
It’s an effective step toward maintaining workplace safety, protecting your business, and making informed hiring decisions — all while keeping costs under control.
🚀 Upgrade to Enhanced
If you hire across multiple counties or states, or you want even more county courthouse verifications, consider upgrading to our Enhanced Background Check.
Enhanced blog post coming soon.
