Desk-Based investigator: records and background research

Attorneys, small businesses, landlords, property managers and individuals who need facts checked.

Flat fee per search or report, or hourly billing for larger research projects. Regular work from a few law firms can steady your income.

• Online and records research
• Organized, accurate note-keeping
• Clear report writing
• Understanding of privacy rules

• Many states license this work as private investigation, so check before taking paid cases
• Background checks used for hiring, housing or credit decisions may fall under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, so check what applies
• Laws limiting access to certain personal data, such as motor vehicle records, and the permitted uses
• Errors and omissions insurance, since inaccurate reports can cause real harm to others
• Home business rules from your city, HOA or lease

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your research tools, insurance, any licensing fees and how you market to attorneys and businesses. Costs vary by state, so check requirements before taking paid work.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your rates, the types of searches and reports you offer and your client base. These are estimates, not guarantees. Plan for at least about 10 hours a week.

Many states license this work as private investigation, so check before taking paid cases. Also check whether the Fair Credit Reporting Act applies to hiring, housing or credit checks, laws limiting access to personal data, and home business rules from your city, HOA or lease.