No, you cannot use BeenVerified without paying, as there are no free options available for its services.
Understanding BeenVerified's Payment Structure
BeenVerified operates on a subscription-based model, meaning users must sign up for a paid plan to access its extensive search capabilities. Unlike some services that might offer limited free trials or basic free searches, BeenVerified explicitly states that it does not provide any free options for its users. This payment structure ensures access to its comprehensive database, which compiles various types of public records.
What BeenVerified Is Used For (and What It's Not)
BeenVerified is primarily designed for individuals seeking to find information on people, such as contact details, addresses, and other background insights. It compiles public records into an easy-to-understand format for personal use.
However, it's crucial to understand the limitations and appropriate uses of BeenVerified, especially concerning legal compliance:
- Not a Free Service: As established, accessing any information through BeenVerified requires a paid subscription.
- Not for Employment Screening: BeenVerified cannot be used to research employees or for any form of employment screening (hiring, promotion, retention, etc.). This is because BeenVerified is not a consumer reporting agency (CRA) as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The FCRA is a federal law that regulates how consumer information can be collected, disseminated, and used, particularly for purposes like employment, housing, credit, or insurance. Using a non-CRA service like BeenVerified for these FCRA-regulated purposes is a violation of federal law.
Appropriate Uses for BeenVerified:
- Finding long-lost friends or family members.
- Verifying online dating profiles for personal safety.
- Investigating unknown callers or senders of messages.
- Researching potential buyers or sellers for personal transactions.
- Gaining general background insights for personal curiosity and non-FCRA regulated purposes.
Prohibited Uses for BeenVerified:
- Making employment decisions (hiring, promotions, termination).
- Screening tenants for rental properties.
- Making credit decisions or determining eligibility for loans.
- Underwriting insurance policies.
- Any other purpose regulated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
How BeenVerified Works (Subscription Details)
While specific pricing plans can vary, BeenVerified typically offers different subscription durations, such as monthly or multi-month plans, which users must purchase. These subscriptions grant access to a range of search tools.
To use the service, you would generally:
- Visit the official BeenVerified website, such as www.beenverified.com.
- Select and purchase a suitable subscription plan.
- Enter the information you wish to search (e.g., a name, phone number, or email address).
- Access the compiled search results, which are drawn from various public records.
Key Considerations Before Subscribing:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Requires a paid subscription; no free options available. |
| Data Source | Aggregates information from public records. |
| Legal Compliance | Is not FCRA compliant; must not be used for employment, housing, credit, or insurance decisions. |
| Primary Purpose | Personal background checks, finding people, general information gathering (non-FCRA purposes). |
By understanding that BeenVerified is a paid service with specific legal limitations regarding its use, individuals can make informed decisions about whether it meets their needs and ensure they use it appropriately.
