Does BeenVerified $1trial allow access to criminal records?
BeenVerified is a popular public records search service that provides users with access to various types of information, including criminal records, contact details, property records, and more. One of the key selling points of BeenVerified is its affordability and ease of use, making it a widely used tool for individuals who want to look up background information on others.
A common question potential users ask is whether the BeenVerified trial allows access to criminal records. This article explores the details of beenverified $1 trial, its features, and its limitations when it comes to accessing criminal records. We will also discuss how the service gathers data, the legal implications of using it, and alternative options for accessing public records.
Understanding BeenVerified’s $1 Trial
What is the BeenVerified $1 Trial?
BeenVerified offers a limited trial for just $1, which allows users to explore its database and access various types of public records. This trial is a great way for users to determine whether the service meets their needs before committing to a full subscription.
The trial typically lasts for a limited period, usually 7 days, and gives users access to:
Background reports
Contact information
Address history
Property records
Social media accounts
Criminal records (with limitations)
Does the BeenVerified $1 Trial Include Criminal Records?
Yes, BeenVerified’s trial does allow access to criminal records, but there are some important limitations to keep in mind:
Data Availability: The availability of criminal records varies by state and county. Not all jurisdictions provide full access to their criminal records databases.
Accuracy of Records: BeenVerified compiles data from multiple sources, which means that records may not always be up to date or 100% accurate.
Restricted Use: The information found on BeenVerified cannot be used for employment screening, tenant background checks, or any purpose covered under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
How BeenVerified Collects Criminal Records
BeenVerified gathers criminal records from multiple sources, including:
State and county court records
Arrest records
Sex offender registries
Federal databases
Police reports (where available)
However, because criminal records are stored at different levels of government, there may be gaps in the data. Additionally, some states have privacy laws that restrict the release of certain types of criminal records.
Limitations of Accessing Criminal Records on BeenVerified
1. Not a Consumer Reporting Agency
BeenVerified is not a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA), meaning it is not legally permitted to provide data for hiring, renting, or lending decisions. If you need a background check for legal or employment purposes, you should use an FCRA-compliant service instead.
2. Incomplete Records
The completeness of criminal records in BeenVerified depends on how often public records databases are updated. Some counties may take months or even years to update their records, leading to outdated information.
3. Restricted Jurisdictions
Certain states have restrictions on the public availability of criminal records. If a state limits public access, BeenVerified may not have complete records for individuals from that state.
4. No Federal Criminal Records
While BeenVerified provides access to state and county records, it does not always include federal criminal records. Federal crimes, such as tax fraud or drug trafficking, may not appear in a BeenVerified report.
How to Use BeenVerified’s Trial to Check Criminal Records
If you want to use BeenVerified’s $1 trial to look up criminal records, follow these steps:
Sign up for the Trial: Visit the BeenVerified website and sign up for the $1 trial. Make sure to read the terms and conditions.
Enter the Person’s Name: Use the search bar to enter the full name of the individual you want to check.
Filter the Results: If multiple results appear, use additional details like location or age to narrow down your search.
View the Report: Once the search is complete, review the report to see if any criminal records are listed.
Verify the Information: Since BeenVerified’s data may not always be complete or up to date, cross-check the information with official state or county court websites for accuracy.
Is BeenVerified’s Trial Worth It for Criminal Record Searches?
The BeenVerified $1 trial is a cost-effective way to explore public records, including criminal history. However, whether it is worth it depends on your specific needs:
Pros
Affordable ($1 for trial access)
Easy-to-use interface
Access to multiple types of public records
No commitment required beyond the trial period
Cons
Not FCRA-compliant
Data may be incomplete or outdated
Some jurisdictions restrict access to criminal records
No federal criminal records included
If you are looking for casual research or personal curiosity, BeenVerified is a good option. However, if you need criminal background checks for employment or legal purposes, you should use a more comprehensive and legally compliant service.
Alternatives to BeenVerified for Criminal Record Checks
If you are not satisfied with BeenVerified’s trial or need a more official background check, consider these alternatives:
1. Official State Websites
Many state governments offer online portals where you can search for criminal records for free or a small fee.
2. County Court Records
Visiting a county court website or office can provide the most accurate and up-to-date criminal records.
3. FCRA-Compliant Background Check Services
If you need a background check for employment or tenant screening, use services like:
GoodHire
HireRight
Checkr
IntelliCorp
4. National Criminal Database Searches
For a more extensive search, consider using a service that pulls data from national criminal databases, though these are typically more expensive than BeenVerified.
Conclusion
BeenVerified’s $1 trial does allow access to criminal records, but with several limitations. While it provides a convenient and affordable way to conduct background searches, it should not be relied upon for official or legal purposes. Users should be aware that the accuracy and completeness of records vary based on location and data sources.
For those needing a quick and inexpensive way to look up criminal records for personal use, the beenverified $1 trial can be useful. However, for employment screening, tenant verification, or other legal purposes, it is better to use an FCRA-compliant service or check official government databases.
By understanding the limitations of BeenVerified, you can make an informed decision about whether its $1 trial is the right option for your needs.
