Quick Answer
Last verified:

Sterling pricing varies by team size and features, ranging from $20 to $500 per month in 2026. Your actual cost depends on the tier you choose, contract length, and negotiated discounts.

Use the interactive pricing calculator to estimate your exact cost based on team size and requirements.

  • Free tier: No free tier available
  • Billing: Monthly and annual (save 15-20%)
  • Hidden costs: Add ~35% for implementation, support, and training

Sterling offers 1 pricing tiers: Standard. Standard paid plans include Standard at $75/month. The Standard plan is large enterprises and fortune 100 companies in regulated industries (fintech, healthcare, logistics, enterprise saas) requiring scalable global screening programs with advanced compliance and customization capabilities..

Compared to other background checks software, Sterling is positioned at the mid-market price point.

Last verified: February 2026 | Sources: 5 pricing pages and reviews

All Sterling Plans & Pricing

Plan Monthly Annual Best For
Standard $75 /month Custom Large enterprises and Fortune 100 companies in regulated industries (fintech, healthcare, logistics, enterprise SaaS) requiring scalable global screening programs with advanced compliance and customization capabilities.
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Standard

  • Highly configurable API with 13+ years of innovation and development
  • Global screening programs scalable to anywhere you hire
  • Machine learning algorithms for social media screening with EEOC/FCRA/GDPR compliance
  • Extensive service suite customizable to business needs
  • Integration with major enterprise systems (Workday, Oracle Taleo, SAP SuccessFactors, Lever)

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Hidden Costs to Budget For

Watch for 7 hidden costs
  • Custom pricing means costs vary significantly by contract
  • No transparent pricing available without sales consultation
  • Pass-through fees from courts, DMVs, and other agencies
  • International screening can add substantial costs
  • Premium services and faster turnaround times cost extra
  • Implementation and integration fees for enterprise deployments
  • Volume commitments may be required for better pricing
Tip

Ask your Sterling sales rep about these costs upfront. Getting them in writing before signing can save you from surprise charges later.

Full hidden costs breakdown →

Frequently Asked Questions

01 How much does Sterling background screening cost?

Sterling uses custom enterprise pricing without public rates. Costs typically range from $20 to $500+ per check depending on screening complexity, volume, and service level. Contact their sales team for a customized quote.

02 What types of companies use Sterling?

Sterling primarily serves large enterprises and Fortune 100 companies in regulated industries such as fintech, healthcare, logistics, and enterprise SaaS that require global screening capabilities and advanced compliance.

03 Does Sterling offer international background checks?

Yes, Sterling provides comprehensive global screening programs and can conduct background checks in countries worldwide, making it ideal for companies with international hiring needs.

04 What ATS systems does Sterling integrate with?

Sterling integrates with major enterprise systems including Workday, Oracle Taleo, SAP SuccessFactors, Lever, iCIMS, LinkedIn, Jobvite, and many others through their highly configurable API.

05 Is Sterling suitable for small businesses?

Sterling is primarily designed for enterprise clients and may be cost-prohibitive or overly complex for small businesses. Smaller companies may find better value with providers like Checkr, GoodHire, or Certn.

06 What happened to Sterling after the First Advantage acquisition?

Sterling is now a First Advantage company, which may result in branding changes and service updates. However, Sterling continues to operate as a trusted global screening provider with its existing technology and partnerships.