Spokeo Review: What is Spokeo and Does it Really Work?

Spokeo logo cover

Spokeo is a popular people search tool designed to track down old acquaintances or learn about the people around you. Through billions of records, the platform pulls together information to help you paint an accurate picture of others in your life. This Spokeo review thoroughly examines the platform’s features and how it provides the results you need.

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Spokeo logo

Spokeo Review – Our Verdict

Spokeo logo

Spokeo is an excellent background check service whether you’re searching by name, phone number, email address, or physical location. Few other people search tools have such a range in their capabilities. Pricing is reasonable for what you get, and you can gather up some of the most basic data on your subject completely for free.

There are caps on the number of searches you can perform in a month, although it’s unclear at a glance what these limits are. Spokeo is pretty accurate at getting things right the first time though, with over 12 billion records to find data from.

  • Reasonably-priced plans
  • Pulls from over 12 billion records
  • Free basic searches
  • Unclear pricing model
  • Available in the US only
  • No unlimited search plans

Spokeo at a Glance

Unlike many other people search sites out there, Spokeo gets you results quickly. Even with 12 billion records at its disposal, you’ll have a list of applicable search candidates in mere moments.

You can view basic information on a search subject for free, but the information here is somewhat sparse. Many fields are blurred out, and detailed data is unavailable. To see everything unabridged, you’ll need to sign up for a monthly membership.

Screenshot of Spokeo home page

Spokeo has only one price point, a $24.95 package for name, email, phone number, and address searches. You’ll start off with a $0.95 7-day trial and can cancel at any time.

The site’s biggest downside is its monthly search limit. There’s no clear answer on how many reports you can run per month or how much it costs to upgrade.

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Who Spokeo is Best For

Having knowledge about those around you can keep you and your loved ones safe. Anyone can use Spokeo to look up information on neighbors, colleagues, or someone they met online. The site reveals questionable past behavior and criminal records that could be serious red flags. Spokeo can’t be used to screen candidates for employment, tenancy, or financial services.

Spokeo Pricing

To find any price information on Spokeo’s website, you first have to start up a search. After entering a search subject based on one of Spokeo’s available criteria, the service will quickly track down your data. Clicking on one of the names meeting your search parameters takes you to some very basic information you can view for free.

If you want a detailed report, choosing “unlock profile” takes you to a payment page as a new user. From there, Spokeo informs you that a one-week trial membership costs just $0.95. In the fine print, the site lets you know that you’ll receive a bill for $24.95 per month after the trial concludes.

Spokeo’s help center mentions casually that a subscription has a maximum number of searches available each month. It goes on to say that you can upgrade your plan to increase this limit but reveals no potential costs for doing so.

Spokeo Features

There’s a lot you can do with a Spokeo membership. Read on to learn about some of the platform’s top features.

Spokeo People Search

The Spokeo search tool enables you to locate lost friends and family with no more than a name. It will find anyone in the United States with that moniker and reward you with a list of those individuals. If you have a previously-known location, Spokeo will be able to narrow down your search that much more.

Choosing a name reveals any phone numbers and email addresses connected to the individual, along with all the places they’ve lived. You’re also made aware of any social media profiles the person has.

Screenshot on the Categories of personal information available on Spokeo

If you’re looking for background information, Spokeo shows employment and education history. It will also show accessible court records from any state in the country, making it one of the best background check services out there. The people search can help you screen online connections and avoid going out with potentially dangerous individuals.

Keep in mind the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) doesn’t let you use Spokeo for certain purposes. You can’t use the site to make determinations on employment, lending, or selecting a tenant for your rental property.

Run a People Search with Spokeo

Spokeo Reverse Phone Lookup

Decipher the person or business calling you at all hours of the day with Spokeo’s reverse phone lookup. With just a ten-digit number, the platform can provide the caller’s name, location, and whether you’re dealing with a cell phone, landline, or VoIP. If the system flags the number as spam, Spokeo will show you comments on the number from other Spokeo users.

Screenshot of Reverse phone lookup on Spokeo

Run a Reverse Phone Lookup with Spokeo

Spokeo Email Search

An email search locates the name of the sender and any other available contact information for that person. The report will also link any social media accounts and personal details of the person on the other end of the message.

Screenshot of Reverse email lookup on Spokeo

For individuals you’ve met online, the email search can discover if the person’s being honest or fabricating parts of his or her story. It can also deter you from scams or see who a partner’s been chatting with.

Run a Reverse Email Lookup with Spokeo

Spokeo Address Search

Spokeo’s address search lets you obtain information on the inhabitants of a particular property. You can discover who lives at the location, contact info, and criminal records for anyone inside.

Screenshot of Reverse address lookup on Spokeo

You can broaden searches to check your neighborhood for safety concerns or sex offenders living nearby. Knowing potentially dangerous areas can keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s way.

The address search also helps potential homeowners learn the property details of a home in question. While real estate reports only provide so much, a Spokeo search can alert you to issues you weren’t aware of. You can also get a feel for a neighborhood and whether or not it’s a good place to live.

Run a Spokeo Address Search

Free Basic Searches

Spokeo doesn’t offer the option to pay upfront for searches. Instead, your initial search will lead you to basic information on the person or location in question. It will then point you toward the option of paying for more details.

You’re more than welcome to remain on the basic information page and browse everything made available there. The snapshot blurs out some lines of text, but it may reveal enough to provide whatever data you’re looking for. At a glance, you’ll know some address history, family members associated with your subject, and whether they have a criminal record.

Fast Results

Most people search sites slog through data while up your search subject. Along the way, pop-ups ask additional questions you’ll have to answer. These prompts may help narrow down results, but can delay the process if you’re not paying attention. When all’s said and done, it feels a bit over the top.

Luckily, this isn’t the case with Spokeo. Type in your search criteria, and in seconds, you’ll have results on your screen. You may have to scroll through a list to find the right John Smith, but at least this is something you can control.

Wealth Data

Wonder how much one of your coworkers makes? Spokeo is one of the few sites to share wealth data on a person in question. You can see income information from jobs alongside investments and financial interests your subject pursues. A search also shows any property the target owns and the approximate value of each place.

Mobile App

Users can download the Spokeo app to track down people while on the go. After installation, all of Spokeo’s features are instantly available no matter where you may be. The app searches the same databases and will even locate any missing information from your phone’s contact list. Through constant monitoring, you’ll be the first to know if one of your friends changes emails or gets a new cell phone number.

The Spokeo mobile app is currently only available for Android devices. Support for other devices is coming down the line.

Alternatives to Spokeo

If Spokeo doesn’t resonate with you, here are some alternative people search services to consider instead.

Truthfinder logo

TruthFinder goes deeper than Spokeo, allowing you to check the dark web for stolen personal data. Discovering you’ve been subject to identity theft early on can minimize damage to your finances and credit score.

The site has both people searching and reverse phone lookups to pull together data on a target. These reports may not scour as many records as Spokeo does but still produce accurate results most of the time. Unlike Spokeo, there’s no limit to the number of searches you can perform in a month.

If signing up for two months at a time, it is possible to purchase TruthFinder for as low as $23.28 per month. There’s no option for a trial membership or refunds. TruthFinder does charge an additional $4.99 per month for phone number searches.

Where Spokeo’s searches are lightning-fast, TruthFinder takes the long route to get your answers. The site throws additional questions your way as it searches, but many steps don’t seem to add much weight to the outcome. All in all, the entire process takes several minutes to complete.

  • Proprietary dark web scanning
  • Reasonable pricing for phone number lookup service
  • Unlimited reports
  • Must get a monthly subscription, no individual reports
  • Only includes results from the United States
  • Over-the-top process to obtain results
Intelius logo

It’s hard to top Intelius’s search prowess, perusing billions of records like Spokeo to pull together information. The service is very easy to use, with separate tabs dedicated to people search, reverse phone lookup, criminal records, and the like.

Intelius stands out for its address search feature, similar to what Spokeo brings to the mix. Looking up a property can tell you about previous owners, revisions to the home, and what its value should be based on several conditions.

Adding features like reverse phone lookup or address searching increases the overall cost of the package. Two months of people searching goes for as low as $21.13 per month, but adding extras can bring the price up to $34.95 per month. You can download reports for a $3.99 upcharge.

To keep yourself safe online, Intelius offers an identity protection program for $9.95 monthly. This system monitors your credit for strange happenings and alerts you immediately if something’s amiss. When battling against identity theft, there’s up to $1 million in insurance coverage available.

  • Unlimited searches
  • The site is easy to navigate
  • Address and property searches
  • Other services come with additional fees
  • Hard to understand pricing options
  • Reports are sometimes lacking
Instant Checkmate logo

Instant Checkmate loves locating criminal activity and does it well. With so many government databases at its fingertips, you can learn all about the past of your neighbors or that potential love interest with a few keystrokes.

Where Spokeo’s searches are fast, Instant Checkmate can take an eternity to provide results to your inquiry. You’ll need to be present for a search in case Instant Checkmate asks you additional questions to narrow down your search.

Anyone constantly on the go will delight in Instant Checkmate’s mobile apps. The platform offers a search tool for both Android and iOS with the same functionality and results as the desktop application. With unlimited searches, you can look up that unknown number the moment you get the phone call. 

You’ll have to buy a monthly membership to use Instant Checkmate, and prices aren’t cheap. A single month of reports will set you back $35.12, but those willing to pay three months at a time will only pay $28.09. Features such as phone reporting and dark web monitoring cost extra.

  • Accurate criminal and background checks
  • Dark web monitoring
  • Handy mobile app for Android users
  • Overbearing search process
  • Expensive membership fees
  • No option to pay per report
Peoplefinders logo

PeopleFinders is no stranger to the search business, having over 20 years of experience helping people reconnect. The site uses more than 120 billion records to help you find individuals you’ve lost touch with over time.

You can generally obtain good results with nothing more than a first and last name, but knowing where someone lived at some point helps that much more. If you only have a phone number or address, PeopleFinders can work with that also.

Strangely enough, PeopleFinders doesn’t use social media when checking for results. Conversely, Spokeo is quite good about leafing through these platforms for additional data.

One month of PeopleFinders is the same price as Spokeo at $24.95. Through a current introductory offer, you can sign up for just $19.95. Three and six-month memberships bring that price down to $12.95 or $9.95 per month, respectively. PeopleFinders also offers a premium membership for $29.95, providing more detailed results.

  • 20+ years of service
  • Quality service
  • Easy to use
  • Requires a premium membership for comprehensive reports
  • Available in the US only
  • Doesn’t search social media

Spokeo Review – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Still have questions about how Spokeo works? This FAQ serves to answer some of the most common questions about the service.

Bottom Line on Spokeo Review

Spokeo can work wonders for anyone searching by name, address, phone number, or email. The platform looks through billions of records before providing a detailed report on its findings. You can see basic reports without paying a penny, but it will require a membership to have an unobstructed view of all available data. Since Spokeo is not FCRA-compliant, remember not to use the service for business-related inquiries.

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Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

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Instant Checkmate Review: Are the Results Worth the Price?

Instant Checkmate logo

In this troubling world, there’s nothing more important than keeping you and your family safe. Instant Checkmate searches can alert you to nearby criminals and sex offenders that could put your loved ones at risk. While impressive, this just scrapes the surface of all Instant Checkmate can do.

Instant Checkmate logo

Is Instant Checkmate Legit? – Our Verdict

Instant Checkmate has one of the largest databases to pull from. All these sources give the best chance at thorough and accurate criminal and background checks. There’s no limit to the number of searches you can run, and Instant Checkmate throws in location reports for good measure.

The search process takes longer than it should, with several annoying prompts that could be combined into a simple questionnaire. You have to buy at least a month’s membership to use Instant Checkmate, and prices are higher than most competitors. Fortunately, it’s possible to run searches from anywhere with the handy mobile app.

  • Accurate criminal and background checks
  • Dark web monitoring
  • Handy mobile app for Android users
  • Overbearing search process
  • Expensive membership fees
  • No option to pay per report

Instant Checkmate at a Glance

Instant Checkmate places the power of information right at your fingertips. With nothing more than a name, you can uncover everything from work history to criminal activity on a person in question.

Prices go run higher than the average people search tool, perhaps due to the depth of an Instant Checkmate scan. The only way to get a report is through a monthly membership, which costs as much as $35.12 if you only pay one month at a time. There are some additional upcharges if you’re interested in the add-ons.

Users with Android devices can take advantage of the Instant Checkmate mobile app. With this handy tool, you can run a search from just about any location. iOS users aren’t so lucky.

Because Instant Checkmate is not a Consumer Reporting Agency, it’s prohibited to search for the purpose of employment or tenant screening. You’re also unable to use the tool to make decisions about issuing credit, loans, or insurance.

Screenshot of Instant Checkmate Public Records Search Service

Who Instant Checkmate is Best For

Instant Checkmate is best for anyone wanting to look up an individual or location for personal reasons. If you want to learn more about your neighbors or locate a long-lost friend, Instant Checkmate likely has your answer. 

That said, it is against the law to use Instant Checkmate for employment or tenant screening. You also can’t use the service to make determinations about loans or credit.

Instant Checkmate Pricing

The service has two subscription options, one for people searches and the other for reverse phone lookups. Here are some of the top features each plan offers:

Person Reports

Phone Reports

Price

$28.09 – $35.12

$5.99

Location Reports

Phone Numbers

Employment/ Education History

Criminal Records

Address History

Owner’s Name

Social Media Profiles

Photos

Assets

If you’re trying to track someone down, Instant Checkmate’s Person Reports tool is your only option. A single search combs through billions of records to locate your subject and provide all available information.

You may learn where the person has lived, employment and education history, and any trouble they’ve gotten into with the law. Should you still want to get in contact, Instant Checkmate will share any phone numbers, addresses, and social media profiles belonging to him or her.

The Instant Checkmate cost for Person Reports is $35.12 for a single month. Anyone planning to use the service for longer can invest in three months for an average of $28.09 per month.

For just $5.99, you can run an unlimited number of reverse phone lookup reports for a month. This feature can identify who’s on the other end of a number you don’t recognize, putting a name to a caller. It’s also a great way to gather information on someone you met online and have been texting back and forth with.

When you run a report, Instant Checkmate will provide photos of the owner, their location, and any social media profiles they may have. You can use the date to decide whether or not to answer the phone next time.

Instant Checkmate has two add-on features to consider as well. For a one-time fee of $3.99, you can download your reports to a device and view them any time, even while offline. You’ll have this information even if you choose not to renew your Instant Checkmate contract.

The people search tool can also monitor the dark web for $1.99 per month. It will alert you if any of your sensitive information from passwords to credit card numbers end up out there. This way, you can act quickly and shut down the threat before it gets out of hand.

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Instant Checkmate Features

There’s a lot you can uncover with an Instant Checkmate membership. Let’s dive into its top features now.

Instant Checkmate People Search

Screenshot of Instant Checkmate People Search

People Search is Instant Checkmate’s standout feature. This single tool can locate information on just about anyone, from a love interest to the new neighbor moving in down the street. A search provides a comprehensive list of available data from employment and education history to past addresses.

If you’re hoping to reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in ages, Instant Checkmate has you covered. The site will share known phone numbers, email addresses, or social media profiles you can use to reconnect.

The only information you need to perform a search is a first and last name. Knowing a city or state the person has lived in at some point will facilitate the process. Instant Checkmate then sifts through billions of records, putting all the data it collects into one easy-to-read format.

A search takes time, partly due to the number of records Instant Checkmate goes through. As the service does its thing, it may ask you additional questions to filter results. While this does help obtain an accurate report, it adds minutes to the already long search process. Moreover, you have to be in front of your device to address those prompts.

You can use the people search tool for any personal reason you can think of. Because of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), it’s against the law to use such a tool to make judgments about hiring, renting, or lending money.

Run an Instant Checkmate People Search

Instant Checkmate Reverse Phone Lookup

Screenshot of Instant Checkmate Reverse Phone Lookup

Chances are you get occasional calls from phone numbers you don’t recognize. With Instant Checkmate’s reverse phone lookup, you can track down the name of the person or company trying to reach you. As bot calls become more common, you can contact the business calling you to get placed on a do not call list.

It’s also possible to use this feature to look up someone you’re already in contact with. If buying or selling online, running a search on a number can alert you to a scam. The tool also works great for looking up someone you met over the web to see if their story checks out before going out in person.

Results typically aren’t as comprehensive as a person search but still provides some background information on your target. You can learn where the individual lives and check out any available photos linked to a public record.

Run an Instant Checkmate Reverse Phone Lookup

Instant Checkmate Criminal Records Search

Screenshot of Instant Checkmate Criminal Records Search

Instant Checkmate has a specific search for traffic, criminal, and arrest records. These background reports can reveal information about the people around you and help protect your loved ones.

If a criminal record exists, Instant Checkmate will tell you the nature of the offense and where it took place. It also shows when charges were filed, sentencing, and time spent behind bars.

Beyond looking up an individual, you can use Instant Checkmate to search crime stats in your city, state, or zip code. Having this information can be an invaluable tool before considering a move to a new area.

Run an Instant Checkmate Criminal Records Search

Sex Offender Database

All criminal record reports include a map of any registered sex offenders in the area you’re searching. Once the map loads, you can click on an offender to see detailed information and a mugshot. Knowing where these individuals live can help you keep your family out of harm’s way.

Inmate Search

Another feature unique to Instant Checkmate is the inmate search. Equipped with a name and state, the database will scan through available records for a match. If you’re unsure of a person’s location, you can run a nationwide search instead.

Should Instant Checkmate find a match, it will provide you with the full name, age, and sex of the inmate. The site will also provide any information on a potential release date. Note that searches don’t take into account eligibility for parole.

Customer Privacy

You can run searches on Instant Checkmate knowing that your privacy is protected. The platform will never reveal to any of your search subjects that you’re performing an inquiry on them. Those individuals won’t be any the wiser unless you tell them yourself.

Dark Web Monitoring

The dark web is teeming with identity thieves trying to make a buck off their latest conquest. These unscrupulous individuals use this part of the internet to sell stolen passwords, credit card numbers, and personal identification. Others can use this data to impersonate you or make purchases at your expense.

Instant Checkmate’s dark web monitoring scours the area for any information belonging to you. If located, the site informs you your identifiers have been compromised so you can take necessary action. Canceling a credit card or changing a password before it’s used can save you untold headaches trying to undo damage to your wallet or credit.

Instant Checkmate Mobile App

Those wishing to perform people searches without having to sit in front of a computer can rejoice. Instant Checkmate has a mobile app for Android users with all the same great functionality as the website itself.

You can use the app to look up a person or phone number anywhere you have cellular data or a Wi-Fi connection. The app provides the same comprehensive report you’d receive when searching from a computer.

Unfortunately, Instant Checkmate does not offer an app for iOS.

Hide Your Data

Instant Checkmate puts you in control of your own public data. While on the site, you can ask to suppress your information so others can’t run a search on you. Removing your data from Instant Checkmate translates to other people search sites as well.

Help Center

For questions or issues regarding your service, you can contact Instant Checkmate’s support team during regular business hours from 10 am to 7 pm Eastern Standard Time. There’s also an option to email the team outside those hours. Plan to wait about 24 hours for a response.

If waiting isn’t your strong suit, the website has a detailed FAQ section you can turn to for help. Here you’ll find answers to a long list of common questions regarding the service.

Alternatives to Instant Checkmate

Instant Checkmate has some great features, but it may not be for everyone. If that’s you, here are some alternatives to consider instead.

Truthfinder logo

Like Instant Checkmate, TruthFinder allows you to keep tabs on the dark web. With TruthFinder, the power is in your hands to run your own reports any time you desire. Best of all, there’s no additional cost for the feature.

While TruthFinder doesn’t have a criminal record search per se, it does have sections for public records and background checks. These portals tend to run a little faster and offer up specific information.

Prices for TruthFinder come in cheaper than Instant Checkmate, with a month’s worth of people searching capping out at $28.05. You’ll need to pay an additional $4.99 per month to do reverse phone lookups.

TruthFinder allows you to run as many reports as you desire with an active membership, and reviews indicate the platform does a great job. Results consistently come back with accurate information, even if the process takes several minutes to complete.

  • Proprietary dark web scanning
  • Reasonable pricing for phone number lookup service
  • Unlimited reports
  • Must get a monthly subscription, no individual reports
  • Only includes results from the United States
  • Over-the-top process to obtain results
Intelius logo

Intelius has three membership tiers to choose from. Each plan includes a people search, but moving up the ladder unlocks address lookup capabilities and reverse phone reports depending on how high you go. Reports tend to roll in more quickly with Intelius than other sites, but at times don’t have as much information. 

You won’t find an address lookup feature with most other people search sites. Intelius lets you obtain current and historical data on a location by inputting the address. Potential homeowners can look into the past of a house for red flags before putting in an offer.

For just the people search, you’ll pay $24.86 for unlimited reports. Adding address lookups increases the price to $29.78, and the reserve phone search on top of that brings the total to $34.95. It’s possible to try out the service for $0.95 for a week to see if you like it.

For $9.95 per month, you can employ Intelius’s Identity Protect to safeguard your credit. Not only does this service help you understand your score, it offers up to $1 million in identity theft coverage should something happen.

  • Unlimited searches
  • The site is easy to navigate
  • Prepares results quickly
  • Other services come with additional fees
  • Hard to understand pricing options
  • Reports are sometimes lacking
US Search logo

For reasons unknown, US Search hides its pricing information until you’re well into your first request. Only after the site teases your results are you hit with costs and the option to pay per report or monthly. A month of unlimited searches will set you back $19.86, whereas a single report can cost as high as $3.

US Search’s site feels rather basic to the trained eye, perhaps to simplify the experience for new users. The platform comes with a quick start wizard designed to walk you through a search from beginning to end. Since there are no specific searches for criminal records or a person’s background, you’ll have to rely on the wizard to pull together the data you need.

None of the other people search sites we reviewed have a refund policy, making US Search unique in that regard. If you don’t like the service after using it a few times, you can contact the customer support team for a refund.

  • Quick start wizard
  • Reasonable cost for membership
  • Fair refund policy
  • Basic presentation
  • Lack of transparent pricing
  • Available in the US only
Peoplefinders logo

PeopleFinders enters the picture with more than two decades of experience in helping people connect with old acquaintances and family members. The site has access to over 120 billion records it uses to locate data for your request.

The search process couldn’t be easier, requiring no more than a first and last name. If you have more information on your target, adding that to the mix typically brings in even better results. You can also search by address or phone number.

A regular PeopleFinders membership costs $24.95 per month, but an introductory offer knocks the price down to $19.95. If you want to buy a three or six month membership, you can get the monthly price down to $12.95 or $9.95, respectively. PeopleFinders also has a premium membership for $29.95 that supposedly shares more information about your subject.

When running a PeopleFinders search, the platform doesn’t check social media profiles for information. While this may not affect your results, one can’t help but wonder what additional data could be found there.

  • 20+ years of service
  • Quality service
  • Easy to use
  • Requires a premium membership for comprehensive reports
  • Available in the US only
  • Doesn’t search social media

Instant Checkmate Review – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Still curious about how Instant Checkmate works? These answers serve to address some of the most common questions about the service.

Bottom Line on Instant Checkmate

The sky’s almost the limit of what you can do with an Instant Checkmate membership. Searches can alert you to criminals in your neighborhood or throw up red flags about grabbing a meal with someone you met online. This knowledge can keep you and your loved ones safe in an increasingly dangerous world. Just make sure not to use Instant Checkmate when considering an employee, tenant, or lessee.

Run a Background Check with Instant Checkmate

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

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Intelius Review: An Excellent People and Address Search Tool

Intelius cover image

Intelius is a background check service designed to locate information on specific individuals in your life. With a few keystrokes, the service pores over billions of data points to pull any and all available data about a person in question. What’s more, the site has a similar feature for houses homeowners can use to buy with confidence. Keep reading to discover everything Intelius can do for you.

Intelius logo

Is Intelius Legit: Our Verdict

The Intelius people search tool allows unlimited searches with an active membership. Memberships fall into one of a handful of categories, and pricing options can be quite confusing. To complicate matters more, some add-ons can ramp the price up further.

Once you’ve paid for the features you need, it’s quite simple to perform searches on a computer or through the mobile app. You’ll encounter a few annoying prompts as your reports come in, but Intelius provides data faster than most other sites. Reports are usually good, but occasionally Intelius comes back with lackluster results.

  • Unlimited searches
  • The site is easy to navigate
  • Prepares results quickly
  • Other services come with additional fees
  • Hard to understand pricing options
  • Reports are sometimes lacking

Intelius People Search at a Glance

Intelius is a stellar people search tool for locating information on people across the United States. Crunching through billions of records, the site can bring back tons of data on your subject if it’s out there.

Alongside people searches, Intelius lets you scan addresses for past owners, home history, and equips you with knowledge about the community. Anyone looking to start a life in a particular neighborhood can use Intelius to affirm an option or provide you with a reason to say no.

Prices are quite reasonable, with people searching costing just $21.13 per month if you sign up for two months at a time. Unlocking the full range of Intelius’s search spectrum runs $34.95 monthly. If there’s room in the budget, you can also consider some add-ons from Intelius to round out your package.

Screenshot of Intelius home page

Who Intelius is Best For

Intelius works well for anyone hoping to uncover information on a new neighbor, look up a potential romantic partner, or track down a long-lost family member or acquaintance. As long as you have a name, location, or even an old phone number, Intelius will go right to work. 

Intelius is not for employers, renters, or lenders, however. Because of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), it is against the law to look up individuals for these means.

Intelius Cost 

At present, there are three pricing options you can choose from with Intelius. Precisely what each plan gives in terms of reporting is a little confusing.

 

People Search

Address Lookup and People Search

Reverse Phone Lookup and People Search

Price

$21.13 – $24.86/month

$29.78/month

$34.95/month

Unlimited Person Reports

Unlimited Address Reports

Unlimited Phone Reports

Criminal Records

Address History

Assets

Nearby Sex Offenders

Home Ownership History

Photos

Social Media Profiles

 

 

There’s a bit of overlap between Intelius’s plans, and exactly what you’re getting with each one isn’t terribly clear. No matter which route you go, you’ll be able to run an unlimited number of reports during your membership timeframe.

Screenshot of Intelius pricing plans

The Intelius People Search tier comes with two price options. Signing up for a single month of membership will set you back $24.86 while paying for two months at a time lowers the average to $21.13 per month. At this price point, you’ll have access to a person’s historical data, including criminal records and owned assets.

Address Lookup and People Search appear to add more detailed information about a particular area. You can still search for people, but it’s also possible to load in an address and see what the neighborhood is like. Reports will come back with demographics, property values, and how bad crime is. You can also see a list of sex offenders living close by.

You can try out Address Lookup and People Search for $0.95 for a week to see if the service is for you. If you don’t cancel within those seven days, Intelius will automatically charge you $29.78 for a month’s membership.

The Reverse Phone Lookup and People Search tiers include everything the previous plans have to offer. It also lets you find out who’s on the other side of that phone number. You can search solely by phone number to track down the caller’s name, address, and any social media profiles they may have. If pictures are available, Intelius will show you who’s calling and give you some clues as to why.

Similar to the previous tier, you can try Reverse Phone Lookup and People Search for six days for just $0.95. Because it contains the broadest range of Intelius’s search capabilities, a membership costs $34.95 per month.

Screenshot of Intelius Identity Protect plan

There are also a couple of add-ons you can pick up to bolster your Intelius package. For a one-time fee of $3.99, you’ll be able to download any reports you run while an Intelius member and view them even when you’re offline. Save important searches so you don’t have to run them again.

At $9.95/month, Intelius Identity Protect monitors your credit and enables you to view your score online anytime. The service also watches your records for signs of identity theft and alerts you when something looks suspicious. If there is an issue, Intelius affords up to $1 million in identity theft insurance to combat it.

Intelius Background Check Features

This Intelius review lists a ton of great features you’ll have access to the moment you sign up for a monthly membership. Here are some of the best tools you’ll have right at your fingertips.

People Search

Screenshot of Intelius People Search Feature

Many people come for the Intelius people search and stay for the many other features. With just a first and last name, Intelius goes through billions of records to locate all available information on your target. If you know of a city or state the person has lived, it makes searching that much easier.

As the search does its thing, Intelius may ask you a few poignant questions along the way to narrow down its results. The process takes several minutes, and some of the prompts seem unnecessary. When results roll in, you’re rewarded with the person’s history as well as current location and assets.

The Intelius people search tool can work wonders for reconnecting with friends from high school or a relative you haven’t talked to in ages. It’s also a great way to investigate your date for Friday night or the neighbor who just moved in down the street.

You can use the people search to look up anyone as long as it’s for a personal reason. It’s against the law to use Intelius to look up potential employees, tenants, or lessees because of the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

All of Intelius’s plans include the people search as part of their package.

>>> Run an Intelius People Search

Intelius Reverse Address Lookup

Intelius Reverse Address Lookup

The reverse address lookup zeroes in on a location instead of a person. If you’re looking to buy a home, this is a great tool to learn about what happened there in the past. You’ll see the current homeowner’s information alongside any info available from previous residents. Data can be quite detailed, including the number of persons in the home and estimated income.

Intelius includes every recorded change and updates to the house in question. Reports will show how home value has changed over time and what its current value should be.

You’ll also obtain information on the surrounding area. A search reveals crime statistics and community demographics you can use to make a judgment on a potential place to live. Any sex offenders in the neighborhood will show up on your scan as well. Intelius will also try to provide data on neighbors with names and ages.

>>> Run an Intelius Reverse Address Lookup

Intelius Reverse Phone Lookup

Intelius Reverse Phone Lookup

Cell phone numbers aren’t as private as they used to be. It’s common to receive calls from numbers we don’t recognize, and Intelius’s reverse phone lookup can help you decipher who’s calling.

With just ten digits, Intelius will locate who’s on the other end of the line and report back to you. For those selling online, this search can help you determine if you’re dealing with an interested party or a scammer. Since online daters often connect through the phone, you can look up who you’re meeting with well in advance.

If it’s a business calling, the search can reveal that as well. There’s usually just a bot on the other end, so you can contact the company directly and get moved to a do not call list.

Run an Intelius Reverse Phone Lookup

Intelius Criminal Records Search

Intelius Criminal Records Search

Reporting provides more than just demographic information on a person in question. The Intelius criminal records search will locate any offenses, whether felonies or misdemeanors, on an individual. As long as records exist, Intelius is good at finding them.

To find criminal data, you’ll need your target’s first and last name. Known whereabouts help Intelius find who you’re looking for, but searches cover the entire United States.

Run an Intelius Criminal Record Check

Intelius Background Check

There’s a tab specific to background checks on the Intelius site. These Intelius background checks go deeper than just a criminal records search will do. A scan reveals marriage and divorce history, lawsuits, bankruptcies, liens, and more. You’ll also get any information typically included in a standard people search report.

Public Records Search

While public records are accessible by anyone, it can be arduous to track down the specific record you need. Intelius takes away the hassle, combing through databases across the country for the information you seek. You’ll have existing records in moments without ever having to leave your seat.

Confidential Inquiries

If you’re using Intelius to dig up information on someone, there’s a chance you may not want them to know. Luckily, all searches through Intelius are completely confidential. No matter what information you’re on a quest for, your search subject won’t be any the wiser.

Identity Protection

Your credit score sets the tone for loans, credit cards, and even landing that perfect apartment. Low scores indicate to banks and lenders that you may not have the ability to pay back what you plan to borrow.

An optional add-on, Intelius can monitor your credit score as an optional add-on so you know where you stand. If your score’s low, you’ll be able to put a plan in place to bring it up to a better level. Any dramatic changes to your credit may indicate a case of identity theft. Without identity protection, you may not find out until it’s too late.

As part of this package, Intelius throws in up to $1 million of identity theft insurance for such an event. The site helps with the recovery process and provides these funds to return what you’ve lost.

Suppress Your Public Data

Just as you can find information on others, so too exists information on you among the billions of records Intelius searches. With a bit of help from Intelius, this doesn’t have to be the case. The platform provides the means to remove your data from searches made by Intelius and similar people search sites by walking through a handful of prompts. You will need to authenticate your identity before proceeding.

Intelius Mobile App

With Intelius, you’re not limited to a computer to run your searches. The people search site has a mobile app for both Android and iOS you can use to check numbers and look up folks wherever you may be. The mobile app packs just as much power as a computer search, so you can rest assured you’re getting all available information.

Alternatives to Intelius

Should Intelius not speak to you for one reason or another, all hope is not lost. The services below are solid alternatives to anything Intelius can offer.

Truthfinder logo

TruthFinder stands out thanks to its proprietary dark web scanning that’s included in a standard membership. Having a window into this section of the internet will quickly tell you if you’ve been the target of an identity theft scam.

There’s no limit on the number of reports you can run with TruthFinder, and results seem more accurate than other people’s search providers. The process to get your results is time-consuming and feels way over the top.

Prices for TruthFinder come very similar to what Intelius brings to the table. People searching can be as low as $23.28 per month if you subscribe for two months at a time, but this does not include the reverse phone lookup. You’ll have to tack on an additional $4.99 to look up phone numbers.

Unlike Intelius, TruthFinder doesn’t have the option to look up data based on a physical address. Potential homeowners wanting to learn about a neighborhood will have to learn residents’ names and search that way.

  • Proprietary dark web scanning
  • Reasonable pricing for phone number lookup service
  • Very accurate reports
  • Must get a monthly subscription, no individual reports
  • Only includes results from the United States
  • Over-the-top process to obtain results
Spokeo logo

Spokeo boasts having over 12 billion records to race through for a complete and thorough report. Once you have that data, you can download it to your computer to view at any time for no additional cost.

The site may pull from a multitude of locations, but some government sites don’t make the list. If you’re checking for arrest records or a lawsuit against someone, you may be better off with another search tool.

Membership costs are some of the lowest in the business. Short-term users can purchase a month of searches for $19.95. Anyone planning to use Spokeo for several months can pick up a three-month subscription and get that price down to $14.95 instead.

With Spokeo, you can search by name, physical address, phone number, or even an email address. Other sites often omit digital mail when trying to track down information on someone.

  • Reasonably-priced plans
  • Pulls from over 12 billion records
  • Unlimited PDF downloads
  • Lacks some government search information
  • Available in the US only
  • Reliant on social media
Instant Checkmate logo

Instant Checkmate is the winner for government record searches, providing accurate criminal and background check data on your search subject. There’s even a section dedicated to looking up inmates in all 50 states.

With advanced search filters, Instant Checkmate is perhaps the easiest to narrow down a search to a specific person. The process is still over the top, taking several minutes of questions to get you where you want to be. It serves to get the best results, but there has to be a more streamlined method.

Searches often come with detailed property data rivaling Intelius’s address lookup feature. The platform also has dark web scans if you’re willing to pay a little more.

The pricing structure for Instant Checkmate is the highest of any site we’ve reviewed. A single month of searches costs a whopping $35.12. If you’re willing to buy three months at a time, you can get fees down to $28.09. Reverse phone searches are not included and add $5.99 to the total.

  • Accurate criminal and background checks
  • Searches come with property data
  • Advanced search filters
  • Overbearing search process
  • Expensive membership fees
  • No option to pay per report
US Search logo

US Search is the muddiest people search service, at least in terms of pricing. Without a pricing page, it takes some careful digging to whittle down the costs. At our best guess, a month’s worth of searches currently costs $19.86. Per report options are available but start at $3.

The site makes it incredibly easy to walk through search criteria with a quick-start wizard. Questions are specific, to the point, and don’t take much time to answer like on other platforms.

Perhaps in an attempt to cater to new people searchers, everything on US Search’s site is pretty basic. It’s easy to navigate, but you won’t find a ton of information or clarity along the way. If you’re not happy using US Search, it is one of the few people search sites offering a refund.

  • Quick start wizard
  • Reasonable cost for membership
  • Fair refund policy
  • Basic presentation
  • Lack of transparent pricing
  • Available in the US only

Intelius Background Check Review: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

People search sites like Intelius aren’t always very transparent. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about the service.

Bottom Line on Intelius

Intelius can work wonders for anyone in search of a long-lost family member or curious about the new family moving in down the street. If you have a reason to look someone up, Intelius can help you find the information you need. 

Those searching for a home can use the address lookup to vet houses and neighborhoods. Since Intelius is not FCRA-compliant, you will have to limit requests to those personal in nature.

>>> Run a Background Check with Intelius Today!

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

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TruthFinder Review: Is it a Legit Background Check Service?

Truthfinder review illustration

TruthFinder is a background check service you can use to uncover information about those around you. With so much false information floating around, it’s designed to help you decipher fact from fiction regarding a date, neighbor, or colleague. Read on to discover everything TruthFinder can do for you.

Run a Background Check with TruthFinder

TruthFinder logo

Is TruthFinder Legit? – Our Verdict

Truthfinder logo

TruthFinder is perfect for anyone wanting to gather information on someone for personal reasons. With a single search, you can collect information on a new neighbor or track down a long-lost friend. It’s even possible to look yourself up to see if your data has found its way to the dark web.

Although you can’t run a report without a monthly subscription, TruthFinder lets you search as often as you want while your membership is active. Keep in mind that TruthFinder is not an FCRA-compliant service and can’t be used for employee, tenant, or lendee screening.

  • Proprietary dark web scanning
  • Reasonable pricing for phone number lookup service
  • Unlimited reports
  • Must get a monthly subscription, no individual reports
  • Only includes results from the United States
  • Over-the-top process to obtain results

TruthFinder at a Glance

TruthFinder is one of the best background check services allowing you to discover information on individuals you’d like to learn more about. It provides accurate details on a person’s history, criminal status, and current whereabouts.

The tool does beyond rudimentary scans, diving deep into the dark web for data that may come back to haunt you. If you’ve been subject to identity theft, it’s here your private information will come up for sale. Through routine self-searches, you can rest assured that your credit card and social security numbers are safe.

All searches are completely anonymous, and you can perform them from a computer or mobile device. TruthFinder’s personalized user interface keeps the process simple.

Although TruthFinder isn’t the cheapest option out there, the price makes sense for the amount of data you receive. You can’t perform single searches, but a one-month membership only costs $28.01. If you’re planning a lot of searches, you can save a few bucks by subscribing for two months at a time.

Run a Background Check with TruthFinder

Who TruthFinder is Best For

Anyone and everyone can use TruthFinder to uncover information about a particular person. At less than $30 per month, the price should be well within reach of the average searcher. 

Because TruthFinder is not FCRA compliant, businesses, landlords, and financial institutions can’t use the service to play favorites with candidates.

Is TruthFinder Legit?

TruthFinder is a legitimate people search service that began conducting business back in 2015. Search results often come back accurate, and the information listed is up to date. It currently has a 4.4 rating on Consumer Affairs, and reviews on both the Google Play Store and Apple Store speak highly of what TruthFinder can do.

TruthFinder Cost

TruthFinder only has monthly memberships and does not allow one-off searches. Its pricing is not evident at first glance, and even its about section doesn’t reveal options.

You’ll have to run your first search to discover monthly fees, and at this point, you’ll be able to choose between a one-month or two-month subscription.

One-month subscription: $28.01 per month

Two-month subscription: $23.28 per month

If you hesitate on the membership screen, TruthFinder usually offers a special 5-day trial of all its services for just $1. After that, you’ll pay the full price for a monthly membership.

The reverse phone lookup is a separate feature that costs an additional $4.99 per month.

Screenshot of Truthfinder's subscription plans

TruthFinder Features

TruthFinder has several cool features you can take advantage of as a subscriber. Let’s take a look at them now.

People Search

TruthFinder works surprisingly well at finding a friend or family member you’ve fallen out of contact with. With its search feature, you can enter the name and last known location of a person in question and let TruthFinder do the work for you.

As it looks through data, TruthFinder often prompts questions about the individual’s age, middle initial, or how you know the person. These pieces of information will help the service narrow its parameters and find what you’re looking for. You’ll need to stay close to your computer while the search is running in case a question pops up.

After a handful of minutes, you’ll see a list of people potentially fitting your candidate. Clicking on one of those names sends you to your report once you’ve agreed you’re not going to violate the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

On the other side of the search, you’re greeted with a wealth of information on your target. In this solitary location, you’ll uncover social media information, education and work history, past relationships, and even criminal records. It will also share any current addresses or contact information so you can get in touch.

You can use TruthFinder people search for more than just missing friends or relatives. The tool also works well for new neighbors or the love interest you met in person or online. Being in the know can help keep you and your family members safe.

Run a People Search with TruthFinder

Public Records Search

Screenshot of Truthfinder's Public records search

For a long time, the only way to look into public government records was through a formal request from your local courthouse. A single request could take days or even weeks to get one document from the county you’re looking for information from.

With TruthFinder, you can search for public records on an individual and get access to information from any courthouse in the country, all from your computer. You only have to know the name of the person you’re inquiring about. As with any search, the more information you have on someone, the better.

When your results come in, you’ll be able to immediately see any criminal activity he or she has engaged in the past. This includes arrest and criminal records, court cases, bankruptcies, and even outstanding warrants. These records will also reveal if the person in question is a sex offender.

Reverse Phone Lookup

Truthfinder's reverse phone lookup page

Cell phone numbers aren’t as private as they used to be, leading to more frequent calls from unknown numbers. The TruthFinder reverse phone lookup lets you see who’s trying to get in touch.

Getting your results takes a few minutes, and you’ll want to stand by to click through various prompts and confirmations. Once on the other side of the search, you’ll have access to the caller’s name, location, and social media presence. If available, TruthFinder will even display satellite images of the person’s house.

TruthFinder will also share any information it has on the caller’s relatives or criminal record. If the phone number originates from a business, you’ll receive the company’s name, location, and any other data the site can dig up.

You can also use the TruthFinder reverse phone lookup to see who’s on the other end of the number your significant other is in contact with. It’s worth noting that TruthFinder doesn’t have access to phone conversations or text messages, but you can see the name and locations of the person on the other end.

Dark Web Search

Dark web search on Truthfinder

While there are other background check sites out there, few have the power of the dark web search. TruthFinder’s comprehensive scan scours for any of your personal information out for sale on the dark web. The tool will let you know if you’ve been a victim of identity theft so you can lock down accounts and change information before it’s too late.

Online identity theft is at an all-time high, and it’s becoming increasingly easy for your private information to fall into the wrong hands. With one dark web search, TruthFinder will show you if your bank account, credit or debit cards, driver’s license, passport number, and more are accessible to miscreants. If your information comes up in a search, you’ll want to act fast to regain control of your identity.

Run a Dark Web Search with TruthFinder

Accurate Reports

Despite all the pomp and circumstance of getting your results, TruthFinder does an excellent job of finding accurate and up-to-date information on your search target. Just before you see your results, the site shows you an accuracy gauge based on what it could locate.

To that point, TruthFinder will always only be as accurate as the information found in the millions of databases it searches. It cannot come up with information that simply isn’t there.

TruthFinder App

The TruthFinder App puts the entire service at your fingertips, no matter where you may be. You can quickly check who’s on the other end of a phone call or look up the person you’re meeting for lunch while you’re on your way there.

You can download the app on both Android and iOS devices. TruthFinder reviews on each operating system receive high praise, with over 4.5 stars out of a possible 5.

Easy-to-Use Dashboard

No matter which device you prefer to run reports from, TruthFinder comes with a personalized dashboard for you to use. This layout makes it easy to run searches and track down information on the person in question. The interface is very intuitive, with specific search buttons laid out for you to choose from.

Search Anonymously

There can be some trepidation about running a search on someone online. After all, it could be catastrophic if that other person finds out.

Fortunately, TruthFinder lets you remain completely anonymous any time you run a report on an individual. The person will have no idea you looked them up or what information you were able to acquire. Such privacy when searching is a huge blessing, as many social media sites will inform others of your intent. Some platforms even require you to add the individual to your network to obtain information.

Protect Your Online Presence

If you can look up information on others, you’d better believe that people can look up information on you. TruthFinder allows members to opt out of searches by filling out an online form. 

This means others using TruthFinder to look you up won’t be able to dig up any information on you. Note that this does not remove your data from the millions of records TruthFinder scans.

Alternatives to TruthFinder

There’s some strong competition for TruthFinder out there. If the service doesn’t appeal to you, consider one of these alternatives instead.

Intelius logo

Like TruthFinder, Intelius’s website is very easy to use. A single click can take you to background check, reverse phone lookup, or even a search by address. There’s no limit to the number of searches you perform in a month, but it can take a long time to get results.

Intelius offers a fast pass to cut the wait time down, but it begs the question of why scans can’t be fast in the first place. The fast pass is just one of many potential upcharges you may find yourself paying for.

Pricing options aren’t terribly clear, either. It’s hard to decipher just what information you’ll get from each of the packages listed on the site.

You can bundle reverse phone lookup and people search for $34.95 per month or address lookup and people search for $29.78 per month. Both come with week-long trials for just $0.95. There’s a standard people search option for $24.86 per month or $21.13 monthly if you pay in two-month increments. 

  • Unlimited searches
  • The site is easy to navigate
  • Fast Pass for quick report access
  • Other services come with additional fees
  • Hard to understand pricing options
  • Not the most accurate results

Instant Checkmate is huge on government data, using billions of databases to come up with accurate background checks, including criminal activity on your target. Searches often come with detailed property data you won’t find elsewhere.

Like other people search sites, Instant Checkmate’s search process seems over the top. You can use advanced search filters to increase your chances of hitting the jackpot on pertinent information.

Membership fees with Instant Checkmate are the highest we’ve seen, perhaps due to the depth of government data it searches through. A single month will set you back $35.12, but you can reduce costs a bit by paying $28.09 monthly for a three-month subscription. Reverse phone lookup tools will cost you an additional $5.99.

Instant Checkmate does have dark web monitoring, but this is an extra $1.99 per month upcharge.

  • Accurate criminal and background checks
  • Searches come with property data
  • Advanced search filters
  • Overbearing search process
  • Expensive membership fees
  • No option to pay per report
US Search logo

US Search doesn’t have a pricing page, making it increasingly difficult to know what you’re going to pay for signing up. After running a test search, it appears you can perform a month’s worth of searches for just $19.86. Individual searches are an option, but each one can cost up to $3.

If you’re new to the people search game, US Search has a quick start wizard to walk you through the process. The site will ask poignant questions about your criteria to narrow down parameters and help you find what you’re looking for.

The platform is one of the few to offer a refund policy if you’re not enjoying your experience or getting the desired results. Simply call the customer service department at the number on the site and ask for a refund.

  • Quick start wizard
  • Reasonable cost for membership
  • Fair refund policy
  • Basic presentation
  • Lack of clear pricing
  • Available in the US only
Spokeo logo

Spokeo advertises fast searches with over 12 billion records from thousands of data sources. You’ll only find information from U.S. sources, but this is an impressive number nonetheless.

Last time we checked, Spokeo offered a single month of unlimited reports for just $19.95 a month. If you know you’ll be searching for a while, you can get three months of results for just $14.95 per month.

It is possible to perform a single search while on Spokeo should a membership not interest you. You’ll pay $0.95 for the search, but Spokeo will automatically enroll you in a seven-day trial of its services. Be careful not to start paying for a membership if you don’t want to.

When you receive your results, Spokeo allows you to download the information to your computer for access at any time in the future. This service doesn’t even cost anything extra to use.

  • Reasonably-priced plans
  • Pulls from over 12 billion records
  • Unlimited PDF downloads 
  • Lacks some government search information
  • Available in the US only
  • Vague pricing

TruthFinder Review – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In our FAQ section, we drill down on some of the most popular questions about the TruthFinder service. Have a look at the answers below.

Bottom Line on TruthFinder

TruthFinder offers an accurate look into someone’s life, whether you’re curious about a new neighbor or want to find a friend from high school. The site scours millions of data points to provide you with everything from education history to criminal records. 

It can even help keep your information safe by checking the dark web for stolen credit card numbers or personal identifiers. Using TruthFinder is safe and easy. Just be sure not to use the site for anything that violates the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Run a Background Check with TruthFinder Now

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

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Toast POS Review: The Good, the Bad, and the Delicious

Toast logo

Toast POS is point-of-sale software specific to the restaurant industry. Restaurants can use Toast to accept credit card payments, take customer orders, and allow seamless communication between front and back-of-house staff. Read on to see all the ways Toast POS can work for your business.

Get Toast POS for Your Restaurant

Toast logo

Our Verdict – Toast POS System Review

Toast POS is an excellent point-of-sale software for any size restaurant. Startups can plug right into its free tier of service, and more established businesses have a handful of other plans to pick from. No matter what you choose, there’s 24/7 customer support available to help with issues.

Using the software does require proprietary Toast POS hardware, but Toast will give you the first terminal or handheld for free. While Toast’s plans include most features, restaurants interested in marketing or advanced management tools will need to pay extra for these add-ons.

Toast software displayed on several devices
  • Free tier of service
  • Commission-free online orders
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Proprietary hardware
  • Limited options for reservations
  • Several costly add-ons

Toast POS at a Glance

Toast POS caters specifically to the food and beverage industry, choosing not to spread itself thin with other business types. Whether you run a food truck or fine dining, Toast POS has all the tools any restaurant needs to thrive.

It’s possible to use Toast POS without paying a cent with its impressive starter kit. Not only will you have access to several software tools, but the platform also sends a terminal your way free of charge.

Upgrading your plan unlocks new features as your restaurant demands them, such as online ordering and payroll. There are also plenty of hardware options to accommodate an expanding restaurant floor or busy back of the house.

Who Toast POS is Best For

Toast POS is one of the best POS software for small businesses with a completely free starter kit including both hardware and software. Established restaurants can work directly with the point of sale provider to build a package suitable to their needs. The system leaves plenty of room for expansion, offering tools for online ordering and a payroll platform for burgeoning restaurants.

Toast POS Cost

Toast has four price plans to choose from as your restaurant’s demands change. Check the chart below to see what each one offers:

Starter Kit

Point of Sale

Essentials

Restaurant Basics

Price

$0/month

$69/month

$165/month

$110/month

Order and Table Management

Menu Management

Reporting and Analytics

Terminals

Up to two

Custom

Custom

Custom

Payroll and Team Management

Payment Processing

2.99% + 15¢ per transaction

2.99% + 15¢ per transaction

2.99% + 15¢ per transaction

2.99% + 15¢ per transaction

Online Ordering

24/7 Support

Unlike other point-of-sale services, Toast charges one flat rate across the board for payment processing. This takes some of the sting out of starting at a lower price point, although rates are still a bit high.

There are some fantastic benefits to using Toast POS, even at the free level. Even though Toast requires proprietary hardware, the company gives you a terminal just for signing up. Keep in mind you’ll have to pay for any additional terminals you may need. If choosing a higher tier, Toast POS will work with you to create a custom configuration.

Each plan gives access to order, table, and menu management tools you need to run an effective restaurant. You’ll also be able to review reports to see sales summaries and which products aren’t selling.

At $110 per month, the Restaurant Basics package adds in team management tools for scheduling and payroll. It also includes business insurance and a 401k package exclusively for Toast POS users.

If you plan to allow any online ordering, you’ll need to invest in the Essentials package. For $165 per month, the Toast POS system will connect you to customers via the web and provide delivery service options as well.

Get Started with Toast POS Now!

Toast software on a desktop screen

Toast POS Features

Toast POS has an assortment of features that makes it a top restaurant POS software. Let’s check out some of the top ones now.

Order and Table Management

Whether you’re running a fancy sit-down or fast casual, Toast POS has the order tools for you. You can take orders from customers at a counter through terminals or have guests place their own orders through self-ordering kiosks.

Handheld tech lets you take and send orders from the table, enabling your staff to spend more time with customers. Flex tablets track orders for the back of the house, allowing for efficient food prep and speedy order completion. The software also makes it possible to assign tables to different servers to avoid confusion.

Menu Management

All Toast POS software connects to the cloud, so you can access and modify your menu from any location. As you make updates, you’ll see changes appear in real time both in your physical restaurant location and online.

You can also track and manage item availability with to-the-minute countdowns. All your servers and kitchen staff will know the moment you run out of a menu item to avoid frustration from customers.

Toast POS Hardware

There are a slew of Toast POS hardware options for your restaurant to choose from. When signing up for the free starter kit, you’ll receive your very own Toast Flex for orders and system management.

Other Toast POS plans allow for a customized hardware setup, including kiosks for customers to order from and portable devices servers can use at tables. Your kitchen staff can use wall-mounted or standalone tablets to view orders for prep.

Toast makes devices for all restaurant types, and each is designed to withstand the rigors of the industry. Machines come spill and temperature resistant and are able to adjust to match your decor.

Toast POS hardware

Reporting and Analytics

Knowing your restaurant’s performance is a key indicator of success. No matter where you are, you can log into the Toast POS system to receive various reports and analytics.

If you have multiple locations, Toast POS will show you an overview of each one. You can see labor costs, sales numbers, and how each restaurant performs. It’s possible to view a sales summary over any time period to see if a particular promotion worked or if items sold at different price points.

You’ll know at a glance what’s working and what isn’t, so you can make adjustments to menu items or prices on the fly. By identifying areas of improvement, you can stop throwing money away and start making more than ever before.

Payroll and Team Management

Toast’s team management tools are perfect for expediting employee onboarding and making scheduling a snap. You can build schedule templates and communicate directly with your staff from within Toast about last-minute changes or what your daily specials might be. The Toast POS system also adds in labor data to monitor employee time.

The same software has a built-in restaurant payroll system linking employee hours with wages so you don’t have to. You can use Toast POS to direct deposit funds into employee accounts or print checks for each one. Toast POS can remit federal and state information when tax time rolls around.

Online Ordering

Why limit your restaurant to a physical location? Toast POS has a robust online ordering system to connect with customers on the go. Online purchases have no commission fees, so your income doesn’t take a hit.

Customers can pick up orders curbside, or you can take advantage of Toast’s delivery service system. The Toast POS system locates local drivers for you and quickly gets your food into customers’ hands.

Email Marketing – Loyalty

Through Toast POS, your restaurant can run targeted promotions to current and potential customers. After building email marketing templates, you can set the system to send messages automatically so you don’t have to. At the end of the day, you can use Toast software to see how effective your campaigns are.

You can also use Toast’s loyalty programs to reward repeat customers. The software prompts customers to sign up, and loyalty members earn points for purchases they make. Information is saved within your Toast POS system and linked to customers through a credit card number.

Toast POS Customer Support

Toast won’t sell you some software and leave you high and dry. It offers team training and go-live support with experts who can design a system specific to your restaurant’s needs. Once live, you can contact Toast POS customer service 24/7/365.

Even after getting your system up and running, Toast has several training opportunities to hone your skills. There’s a massive database of information and interactive webinars throughout the year. You’ll also get sneak peeks at new products and offer feedback about what you use.

Get Started with Toast POS Now!

Alternatives to Toast POS

Toast POS may not be ideal for every restaurant. Here are a few alternatives to consider if it’s not for you.

Like Toast POS, TouchBistro is a restaurant-exclusive POS software with an assortment of tools for all restaurant types. The software relies on iPad devices, which can be considerably cheaper than Toast’s proprietary machines. Customer support is always on hand to help with issues.

Pricing with TouchBistro isn’t quite so clear. It will set you back $69 per month to get the basic package, and you’ll have to decide from there which other features you need. Each add-on increases your monthly cost.

Some features, such as email marketing and online ordering, have a substantial price tag that smaller businesses may not be able to afford. When you sign up, you’re committing to at least a year-long contract with TouchBistro.

  • Several restaurant POS tools
  • Works with iPad devices
  • Always available customer support
  • Minimum one-year contract
  • Nontransparent hardware and processing fees 
  • Add-ons like online ordering are not cheap

Square POS is a well-rounded point of sale system with plans dedicated to the food and beverage industry. Like Toast POS, Square has a free plan for newer businesses that comes with a card reader for in-person sales. Interestingly, Square POS includes online ordering in all its packages for no extra charge.

Once you outgrow the free plan, your next restaurant POS option costs $60 per month. Here, you’ll receive advanced features, mobile POS software, and finally have access to 24/7 support.

Square’s processing rates in person aren’t as bad as Toast, but online rates are significantly higher. There’s no way to make use of a third-party payment processor when dealing with Square, either.
It should come as no surprise that Square has several extra features you can add to your plan for an additional fee. Of these, the most notable are marketing tools. Read our Square POS review to find out more about it.

  • Basic plan is free to use
  • Free reader for in-person sales
  • Online ordering included in all plans
  • Must use Square’s payment processing
  • Processing rates are on the expensive side
  • Marketing tools cost extra

Lightspeed POS crushes inventory management with a robust system other point of sale services can’t compete with. It’s simple to track products across multiple locations, assign specific SKUs to items, and reorder supplies straight from the app.

Pricing for restaurant tools starts at $69 per month, but this package leaves out critical features like table ordering and floor plans. If you want access to all Lightspeed’s features, your monthly bill will surpass the $400 mark.

There’s some flexibility with hardware, but it’s a bit annoying that you have to contact customer service for a quote. Fortunately, Lightspeed POS has free onboarding assistance to ensure everything gets set up correctly the first time.

For those watching every penny (and who isn’t?), Lightspeed POS has lower payment processing rates than Toast. Lightspeed users also have access to a suite of eCommerce tools for online ordering.

  • Robust inventory management system
  • Free onboarding assistance
  • Lower payment processing fees
  • eCommerce platform not included in the basic tier
  • Must request a quote for hardware pricing
  • On the pricey side

Clover POS has a series of plans specifically for quick service or full-service dining. Each option includes point-of-sale software and the hardware you’ll need to get up and running. Higher-priced tiers come with more hardware, but you can always purchase more to round out your setup.

Even the most basic quick-service dining plan starts at $90 per month and goes up from there. Full-service restaurants wanting all the fixings should expect to pay no less than $290 monthly. No matter which plans you end up choosing, your first month of service is entirely free.

If you’re keen on online ordering, Clover does have the capability for an online store. This feature is a costly add-on not included in any plan.

Of the restaurant POS services we’ve reviewed, Clover has the lowest payment processing rates for card-present transactions. A few tenths of percent savings on each purchase may not seem like a lot, but the savings add up fast.

  • Hardware included in each plan
  • First month of service is free
  • Low payment processing fees
  • Confusing pricing model
  • Some Clover partners may not do legitimate business
  • Keyed-in transactions have significantly higher processing rates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Want to learn more about Toast POS? Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about the point of sale provider.

Bottom Line on Toast POS Review

Toast POS creates an interface between you and the customer, allowing you to take orders and credit card payments. The software facilitates communication between the front and back of house, expediting order turnaround and keeping customers happy. As your restaurant grows, Toast POS makes it easy to upgrade to online ordering, targeted marketing campaigns, and can even handle scheduling and payroll.

Get Started with Toast POS Now!

6 Best Business Savings Accounts for April 2023

A businessman pointing to a piggybank

Businesses big and small need a savings account to generate interest and pull funds from on a rainy day. That said, some options stand head and shoulders above the rest. This article reveals the six best business savings accounts as we head into the new year.

Quick View on the Best Business Savings Accounts

When checking out the best business savings accounts, we looked for any pesky fees and interest rates that serve to offset them. We also found it important to understand minimum deposit requirements at the time of opening and limitations on drawing money out. Finally, we looked for additional features that made a particular company stand out and how easy it was to use an account.

You can find a more detailed look at our methodology below.

Bank or Fintech

Fees

Interest Rates

Minimum Deposit

Withdrawals

Additional Features

$3 monthly service fee (waivable), $2 for out of network ATMs

0.20% APY

$250 minimum opening deposit

Up to 6 free each cycle

Overdraft coverage if linked to business checking

None

1.26% APY

$0.01

6 free withdrawals each month

Four physical bank locations, additional banking services available

$10 monthly service fee (waivable), fees for excessive deposits

Up to 0.04%

$100 to open account

Up to 6 transfers or withdrawals each monthly cycle, up to $1,000 in cash from ATM

Can set up automatic transfers, overdraft protection, rewards program

$9 monthly service fee, $2.5 for out of network domestic ATMs, $5 for international

1.50% APY

$0.01

Maximum six withdrawals per month

Tax optimization software, fast enrollment, smart mobile banking, overdraft forgiveness

$25 overdraft fee

Up to 0.20% APY

$25,000 minimum opening deposit

Up to 6 free withdrawals per statement cycle

$200 bonus for new business owners, ATM reimbursements, Quickbooks integration

Monthly maintenance fee (waivable), fees at out of network ATMs

0.01% APY

$500 minimum opening deposi

Limited to 6 withdrawals each month

More than 2,400 bank locations in 28 states

 

 

Business Checking Accounts That Earn Interest

Sometimes, you don’t have to look to business savings accounts to earn interest on your money. Some of the best business checking accounts offer APY on their own:

  • Bluevine Business Checking – 2.0% APY on balances up to 100k & Best Bank Account for LLCs
  • American Express Business Checking – 1.3% APY on balances up to $500k
Capital one logo

Capital One Business Savings Account: Best Overall Business Savings Account

Monthly Fee: $3/month

4.7

Capital One has a baseline APY of 0.20%, but many businesses can qualify for higher promotional rates for the first 12 months of use. There are only a handful of branch locations around the country, but the bank’s extensive ATM network more than makes up for it. 

If you accidentally pull too much from your account, you’ll never have to worry about overdraft fees. Beware of the monthly account fee should you not be able to keep up with the requirements.

Why we chose it: Capital One’s large ATM network, minimal fees, and high promotional interest rates of up to $5 million make it one of the best online savings accounts for businesses.

  • High promotional interest rates
  • Does not charge overdraft fees
  • Large ATM network
  • Limited physical locations
  • Monthly account fee
  • Out-of-network ATM fees

Fees

You’re looking at a $3 per month service fee with Capital One if you can’t meet monthly criteria. Fortunately, this is no more difficult than having at least $300 in your business savings account at all times. For other fees, expect a $2 charge for out-of-network ATMs both in the United States and abroad.

Interest Rates

Capital One advertises a 0.20% interest rate as a current baseline to go off of when setting up your account. It’s possible to grab a promotional rate for your first year with the bank, although this amount seems to be on a case-by-case basis. Whatever rate you end up with, it’s good on balances up to $5 million. Any funds beyond that will receive a lower APY.

Minimum Deposit

It takes a $250 initial deposit to open a business savings account with Capital One. Once you’ve opened an account, you don’t need to maintain a set amount. If you can maintain a balance above $300, you won’t have to worry about monthly fees.

Withdrawals

Capital One gives six free withdrawals each payment cycle. Going over the limit can result in unsightly fees. For each withdrawal, you can take up to $600 out through an ATM at a time.

Additional Features

Besides a promotional interest rate for the first year, having a linked business checking account saves you from overdraft fees on your savings. Beyond that, Capital One works with business owners to find banking products that best suit their needs.

>>> Create Your Business Savings Account with Capital One

NBKC bank logo

NBKC Business Money Market Account: Best Business Savings Account for Add-On Services

Monthly Fee: None

4.6

NBKC Bank loves offering a lot for very little. Its money market account has minimal fees to contend with across the board, so your money stays with you. Memberships unlock several add-on services you can build into your account, from fraud protection to invoicing. There aren’t any physical branches outside the Kansas City area, and the app lacks a few features. However, NBKC’s customer service more than makes up for it.

Why we chose it: NBKC Bank goes beyond traditional banking with professional invoicing, cash management, and several other powerful service options.

  • Many extra service options
  • Few fees to contend with
  • Excellent customer service
  • No physical bank branches outside of Kansas and Missouri
  • High international wire fees
  • Mobile app limitations

Fees

Good luck stumbling across a fee while using NBKC Bank. There’s no charge to open an account, maintain it, or if you have an overdraft. Furthermore, you aren’t penalized for returned checks, using a debit card, or depositing money into your business money market account. The only area you have to worry about is international wire transfers, which can set you back $45 a pop.

Interest Rates

NBKC Bank has a high-yield business savings account at 1.26% APY. Best of all, this rate remains whether you have a penny or millions stashed away.

Minimum Deposit

There are no requirements for opening or maintaining your money market account through NBKC Bank. You won’t ever encounter a fee for falling below a certain threshold, nor will your interest rate suffer.

Withdrawals

You can withdraw funds from your money market account up to six times per statement period. It’s possible to pull out up to $1,010 from an ATM each day as long as you have sufficient funds.

Additional Features

This is where NBKC bank really shines. As a traditional bank, it offers a multitude of banking services you can use with your business. These extend to invoice processing, cash management tools, and one-on-one service from industry experts. Anyone living in the Kansas City area can take advantage of these services from a physical branch location.

>>> Set Up Business Savings with NBKC

Bank of America logo

Bank of America Business Advantage Savings Account: Best Business Savings Account With Rewards

Monthly Fee: $10/month

4.5

The Business Advantage Savings account gives you the opportunity to level up your interest through various reward tiers based on your monthly balance. There are monthly fees, but it is possible to waive these through a handful of requirements. With thousands of branches and ATMs around the country, chances are you’ll never be far from one. This is a good thing, because transaction fees for using non-Bank of America ATMs can be high.

Why we chose it: Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program offers interest rate boosts and other incentives to serve your business.

  • Preferred rewards to boost interest rate
  • Over 17,000 ATMs and 4,300 branches
  • Can waive the monthly fee
  • Lacks 24/7 customer service
  • Monthly fees
  • Transaction fees when using non-Bank of America ATMs

Fees

Bank of America has a $10 monthly service fee for anyone unable to meet the requirements to have it waived. To qualify for free savings, you’ll need to do at least one of the following:

  • Maintain a $2,500 minimum daily balance
  • Include one Business Advantage Savings account as part of your Business Advantage Relationship Banking solution
  • Become a member of Preferred Rewards for Business

Otherwise, there are incremental fees if you deposit more than 25 items or over $5,000 in cash during a statement cycle.

Interest Rates

You’ll start off at 0.01% APY, no matter what your average daily balance is. Should you enroll in Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program, you’ll be able to increase this rate as you move up the ladder. To be eligible, you must open a Bank of American business checking account and have an average daily balance exceeding $20,000 across your business deposit accounts.

Interest rates at higher tiers are:

Gold: 0.02%

Platinum: 0.03%

Platinum Honors: 0.04%

Minimum Deposit

To open a Business Advantage Savings account, you’ll need to make an initial deposit of at least $100. There’s no penalty for falling below this number, but there are plenty of perks for moving it higher. You can waive the monthly service fee or tap into high-interest rates if your balance is high enough. In case you missed it, we have also guide on how to open an EIN-only business bank account.

Withdrawals

When working with your savings account, you’ll have to limit withdrawals to six per payment cycle. The maximum amount you can withdraw from an ATM at a time is $1,000.

Additional Features

The Preferred Rewards program offers many benefits beyond an interest rate increase. You can earn discounts on auto loans and merchant services while cutting down on ATM fees just by moving up the ranks. Bank of America also protects your account from overdrafts and allows automatic transfers so you can maximize your interest.

>>> Save with Bank of America

Lili logo

Lili Automatic Savings Account: Best Business Savings Account for Tax Optimization

Monthly Fee: None

4.4

Lili’s all-in-one banking app is super simple to set up, rarely taking more than a few minutes to create your account. Although online-only, Lili has many great features, such as tax optimization software to help keep you in good standing with the IRS. To access business savings, you’ll have to sign up for Lili Pro, a premier service with a monthly service fee. Fortunately, this high-yield business savings account puts many other financial institutions to shame. By the way we also have reviews for other business savings accounts such as; Novo Review and Bluevine Review

Why we chose it: Lili’s checking and savings accounts come with personalized tax optimization tools to ensure you can file easily and without issue.

  • Tax optimization software
  • High yield business savings account
  • Quick enrollment
  • Must transfer money to savings every day
  • Monthly service fee
  • Low monthly transfer and deposit limits

Fees

It will cost you $9 per month to subscribe to Lili Pro, the mobile app’s advanced tier of service. There’s no way to remove this fee, and you’ll need a Lili Pro membership to open a business savings account. There are no additional charges for doing business, but watch out for $2.50 fees for domestic out-of-network ATMs and $5 for international ones.

Interest Rates

Lili is one of the top high-interest business savings accounts out there, offering up to 1.50% APY on funds located within. The rate actually went up from 1% at the beginning of the year.

Minimum Deposit

There’s no minimum deposit required to start a Lili business savings account. However, you will need to deposit at least $1 per day into your business savings account to keep it open. You can set this transfer to happen automatically so you don’t forget.

Withdrawals

Lili limits monthly withdrawals from your business savings account to just six. It can be challenging to move funds back to checking, and the process can take up to a week to complete. Make sure to plan ahead if you’re going to need to tap into what Lili calls an emergency savings account. When taking money out through an ATM, the cap is $500 per day.

Additional Features

Lili has cool tax optimization tools to help you save for the season. With it, you can categorize purchases, find your tax bracket, and file all from the app. Enrollment is lightning fast, and the smart mobile app makes it easy to bank from anywhere. There’s also overdraft forgiveness if you overstep the bounds of your account.

>>> Get Started with Lili Banking

Axos logo

Axos Bank Business Premium Savings Account: Best Business Savings Account for Welcome Bonuses

Monthly Fee: None

4.3

While most financial institutions stifle transfers, Axos offers a lot more leeway with up to 20 per month across your accounts. Anyone setting up an account for the first time can earn a $100 bonus for doing so, and new businesses may see up to $200 in free money. The Premium Savings account does have a hefty $25,000 initial deposit that some small businesses may not be able to afford, however.

Why we chose it: Axos allows more transfers than most other online savings accounts for businesses and has a nice welcome bonus for new owners.

  • Up to $200 welcome bonus
  • Allows 20 transfers per month
  • Integrates with Quickbooks
  • No cash deposits
  • High initial deposit required
  • Poor customer service

Fees

Axos Bank scoffs at fees, charging absolutely nothing for monthly maintenance nor costs should your balance fall below a certain threshold. This makes Axos the best free business bank account for cash deposits.

You’ll want to keep tabs on your finances though, as $25 for over drafting your account can be a punch in the gut.

Interest Rates

You’re looking at a 0.20% interest rate with Axos Bank no matter how high your business savings account goes. The online provider does seem to imply a rate increase if you pass the $5 million mark. If your Premium Savings account falls below $24,000, the rate drops to 0%.

Minimum Deposit

You’ll need at least $25,000 in initial funds to open up an Axos Premium Savings account. Once up and running, there’s no requirement to maintain this balance or fees if you drop below it. If funds dip below $24,000, you won’t earn any interest.

Withdrawals

Like most other business savings accounts, you can perform up to six withdrawals each statement cycle. You can draw up to $1,010 from your account each day.

Additional Features

Axos Bank really stands out for dropping money into your account at startup, making a good bank account for startups. An extra $100 to $200 can mean a lot to an up-and-coming business, and all you have to do is sign up. Additionally, Axos integrates well with Quickbooks software for financial tracking.

>>> Open a Business Savings Account with Axos Bank

US bank logo

U.S. Bank Basic Business Savings Account: Best Business Savings Account With Lending Options

Monthly Fee: None

4.2

U.S. Bank has some great lending options to complement its checking and savings accounts for business owners. It’s possible to set up business loans or business lines of credit for an immediate expense or grow your business. The bank has more than 2,400 branch locations around the country in 28 states, so you may have a drive a little to find one. While you’re there, take advantage of the specialized merchant services U.S. Bank offers for your business type. Don’t also forget our review for the other business savings accounts like; Chase Bank Review and SoFI Review

Why we chose it: You can use U.S. Bank’s business savings account to set money aside for a rainy day or make use of a long list of lending options.

  • Lending to fit your needs
  • Specialized merchant services for restaurants, retailers, and service providers
  • 2,400 branch locations
  • Nontransparent fees
  • Only locations in 28 states
  • Very low APY

Fees

The fee schedule at U.S. Bank is very muddy. You’ll need to visit a branch or call an agent to figure out monthly charges for not meeting your account requirements. It is clear that you can avoid monthly fees if you maintain at least $500 daily. There are also ambiguous fees for transactions and the use of out-of-network ATMs.

Interest Rates

U.S. Bank’s interest rate is 0.01%. It doesn’t matter how much you have in your account; your money will only grow at this rate.

Minimum Deposit

There’s a $500 minimum opening deposit for a U.S. Bank Basic Business Savings account. Should you call below this minimum, you will incur a monthly maintenance fee from the company.

Withdrawals

With U.S. Bank, you’ll have the standard six monthly withdrawals to work with. Within a 24-hour period, it’s only possible to pull out $300 from your business checking account using an ATM.

Additional Features

If you prefer to bank in person, U.S. Bank has more than 2,400 locations scattered throughout the United States. These branches cover 28 states, seemingly without rhyme or reason. The bank does make it easy to view account features through a handy app and detailed monthly statements.

>>> Start Saving with U.S. Bank

Methodology for the Best Business Savings Accounts

We looked into many different factors when selecting the best business savings accounts to populate this list. Here are the top considerations we used when making our decision.

  • Fees: There’s little point in using a bank that’s going to slowly suck your account dry. We make sure to avoid institutions with hidden fees or high costs for doing business that ultimately put you at risk of losing money instead of growing your account. If there are monthly maintenance fees, we prefer providers with the option to waive these amounts if you meet certain criteria.
  • Interest Rates: Interest rates are the bread and butter of any savings account. Without a good interest rate, there’s no reason not to leave all your funds in a checking account for quick and easy access. With a national average rate hovering around 0.24%, banks should meet this or have incredible features to make up for it.
  • Minimum Deposit: Banks requiring a minimum initial deposit can be a barrier for startups or up-and-coming small businesses. Even worse are penalties for failing to maintain a certain threshold over a period of time. Any institution with a high deposit requirement has to have a good reason for doing so.
  • Withdrawals: Your money only works for you when you have the ability to access it. It’s hard to find a bank without withdrawal limits on a savings account, but knowing how much you can take out and when is half the battle. ATMs should allow withdrawals from your business savings account, and the limit should be on the higher side.
  • Additional Features: Many banks and fintech companies follow cookie-cutter systems that lead to lackluster service options. The best business savings accounts have features making them stand out from the masses. This can include a large ATM network, access to physical branches, overdraft protection, and financial management tools.
  • Ease of Use: We wanted to make sure each option making our list was easy enough for the most novice of business owners to understand and use. Access to funds was an important factor, along with the ability to communicate with support staff should the need arise. We also tried to locate organizations with transparent fee structures and clear guidelines on what you can and can’t do.

Best Business Savings Account Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The logic behind a business savings account isn’t always clear. This FAQ answers some of the most popular questions about the benefits of opening one.

Bottom Line 

Business savings accounts are just as important as their checking counterparts, serving as a place to accrue interest and put money away for future use. Many of the best savings options have minimal fees and easy requirements for opening. 

Having funds set aside can be a godsend in an emergency situation where other business owners would have to take out an expensive loan. Since most banks limit withdrawals, you’ll just have to be mindful of pulling out the money you need.

We do have favorite business checking but we believe any of the options on this list will serve you well. Check our other reviews also to other business bank accounts like Oxygen Review and Kabbage Review.

Not sure how to open a business savings account? Read our guide on how to open a business bank account to find out. 

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC