Locate Anyone, Anywhere in the United States
Our expert investigators use premium databases, proven techniques, and 20+ years of experience to find the people you’re looking for—even when others have failed.
See How Our Skip Tracing Works
A two-minute overview of how we locate the people our clients need to find.
Watch OverviewWhat Is Skip Tracing?
Skip tracing is the specialized process of locating individuals who have “skipped”—meaning they’ve moved, changed contact information, or deliberately made themselves difficult to find. The term originated in the debt collection industry when debtors would “skip town” to avoid paying their obligations, but today skip tracing serves dozens of legitimate purposes across legal, financial, and personal contexts.
Professional skip tracing goes far beyond simple internet searches or basic people-finder websites. Our investigators access premium databases that aggregate information from credit bureaus, utility companies, DMV records, court filings, and dozens of other sources that aren’t available to the general public. We cross-reference multiple data points to verify accuracy and provide you with actionable intelligence you can rely on.
Unlike automated “instant” searches that simply pull whatever data exists in a single database, professional skip tracing involves human analysis and investigative judgment. We evaluate the quality of leads, identify potential red herrings, and pursue additional investigation when standard sources come up short. This combination of powerful databases and experienced human investigators is what allows us to find people that automated searches miss.
For a comprehensive overview of the process, see our complete guide to how skip tracing works.
Skip Tracing vs. People Search Websites
Many people try free or cheap people search websites before contacting professional skip tracers. Here’s how they compare.
| Feature | People Search Websites | Professional Skip Tracing |
|---|---|---|
| Data Sources | Public records, social media, marketing lists | Credit headers, utility records, proprietary databases |
| Data Currency | Often 6–24 months outdated | Real-time or near real-time data |
| Verification | None—raw database output | Human verification and cross-referencing |
| Accuracy | 30–50% for current addresses | 85%+ for current addresses |
| Difficult Cases | Usually fails completely | Specialized techniques for evasive subjects |
| Legal Reliability | Not suitable for legal proceedings | Court-tested, attorney-approved |
| Support | None or automated only | Direct access to investigators |
For more, see our guides on skip tracing vs. people search services and professional vs. DIY skip tracing.
Who Uses Our Skip Tracing Services?
Trusted by professionals who need accurate, current information to do their jobs.
Law Firms
Attorneys & Paralegals
Process Servers
Service of Process
Debt Collectors
Collections & Recovery
Investigators
Private Investigators
Financial Services
Banks & Lenders
Bail Bonds
Fugitive Recovery
Insurance
Claims & SIU
Landlords
Former Tenants
Private Individuals
Family & Friends
Industry-specific guides: law firms, collection agencies, private investigators, bail bondsmen, and insurance companies.
Our Skip Tracing Service Levels
Whether you need a quick address verification or a comprehensive investigation, we have a service level that fits.
Basic Skip Trace
Address & PhoneQuick database search to find current address and phone numbers. Ideal for recent moves and subjects who aren’t deliberately hiding. Results typically within 24 hours.
Standard Skip Trace
Verified & Cross-ReferencedComprehensive search across multiple databases with verification. Includes address history, phone numbers, employer information, and known associates.
Advanced Skip Trace
Deep InvestigationFor difficult subjects who have deliberately hidden. Includes social media analysis, asset indicators, relative outreach strategies, and persistent follow-up.
Rush / Expedited
Priority ProcessingPriority handling for time-sensitive matters. Court deadlines, urgent service requirements, and critical collections. Same-day results available.
Service Level Comparison
| Feature | Basic | Standard | Advanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current Address | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Address History | Limited | ✓ (7 years) | ✓ (Full) |
| Phone Numbers | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (with carrier info) |
| Employer Information | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Relatives / Associates | — | ✓ | ✓ (with contact info) |
| Social Media Profiles | — | Basic | Comprehensive |
| Asset Indicators | — | — | ✓ |
| Verification Level | Database only | Cross-referenced | Investigator verified |
| Turnaround | 24 hours | 24–48 hours | 3–7 days |
Specialized Search Services
Defendant Location
Find defendants for service of process, including documentation for due diligence declarations.
Judgment Debtor Location
Find debtors who have disappeared for judgment collection.
Heir & Beneficiary Search
Locate missing heirs through our heir search services.
Witness Location
Find witnesses for depositions and trial through our witness location services.
Missing Person Search
Reconnect with lost family through our missing person investigation.
Fugitive Recovery
Skip tracing support for bail bond agents and fugitive recovery professionals. Current locations and known associates.
What’s Included in Your Skip Trace Report
Comprehensive data compiled from premium nationwide databases—not outdated public records.
For cases involving judgment collection, we can extend to asset investigation to identify property, vehicles, and other assets available for collection.
How Our Skip Tracing Process Works
Combining cutting-edge database technology with experienced human investigators to deliver accurate, reliable results.
Submit Your Request
Provide whatever information you have: name, last known address, date of birth, Social Security number, phone, or other identifying details. More info means faster, more accurate results.
Initial Database Search
We run the subject through premium database systems including credit header data, utility connection records, DMV information, court filings, and proprietary skip tracing databases.
Cross-Reference & Verify
Our investigators cross-reference results across multiple sources to verify accuracy, checking for address consistency, timeline logic, and corroborating evidence.
Deep Investigation (If Needed)
For difficult cases we employ advanced techniques: social media analysis, relative research, public records investigation, and strategic database queries.
Deliver Your Report
You receive a comprehensive report with all located information, organized for easy use. Reports include confidence levels for each data point so you know what’s most reliable.
For more detail, see our article on how skip tracing works.
Our Databases & Data Sources
The quality of skip tracing results depends directly on data source quality. We access premium databases not available through consumer-grade people search sites.
Data Source Effectiveness
Percentage indicates likelihood of returning accurate current address
Premium Data Sources We Access
- Credit Bureau Header Data:Non-financial identifying information from credit files showing where people have applied for credit—often the most current address data available
- Utility Connection Records:Electric, gas, water, cable, and internet service connections—shows where people are actually living
- Phone Carrier Records:Current cell phone subscriber information including carrier and account status
- USPS Change of Address:National Change of Address (NCOA) database showing forwarding requests
- DMV Records:Driver’s license and vehicle registration addresses where legally accessible
- Court Records:Civil and criminal case filings across state and federal courts
- Property Records:Real estate ownership, deed transfers, and tax assessor records
- Professional Licenses:State licensing board records for regulated professions
- Business Filings:Corporate registrations, officer/director listings, and UCC filings
Our Success Rates
Real-world results across thousands of cases. These numbers help set appropriate expectations for your search.
| Case Type | Success Rate | Typical Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| Recent movers (within 1 year) | 95%+ | 24 hours |
| Standard (good starting info) | 90%+ | 24–48 hours |
| Moderate difficulty (limited starting info) | 85% | 2–3 days |
| Difficult (deliberate hiding) | 75% | 5–7 days |
| Very difficult (years missing, minimal info) | 60% | 1–2 weeks |
| International (US citizens abroad) | 50% | Variable |
What Affects Success Rates?
Several factors influence our ability to locate someone: the quality of starting information you provide, how long since the person was last at a known address, whether they’re actively avoiding detection, their level of digital activity (credit, utilities, etc.), and whether they’re living with others or alone. We’re upfront about difficulty assessments and will tell you the realistic probability of success before you commit to a search.
Pricing & Packages
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. All prices are quoted upfront before we begin work on your case.
Basic Skip Trace
Entry-level pricing for recent moves, simple address verification, and straightforward locates. Best for subjects who aren’t deliberately hiding.
Standard Skip Trace
Mid-tier service with cross-referenced verification. Includes employer information, relatives, and known associates. Our most popular option.
Advanced Skip Trace
Premium investigation for difficult subjects and evasive debtors. Includes comprehensive social media analysis and asset indicators.
Deep Investigation
Maximum-depth investigation for people who have deliberately disappeared. Cold cases, persistent follow-up, and creative leads.
Rush / Expedited
Priority processing surcharge for court deadlines and urgent service needs. Same-day turnaround available on standard searches.
Volume Discounts
Significant per-search discounts for collection agencies, law firms, and process servers with ongoing skip tracing needs.
For a current quote and details on pricing factors, contact us directly or see our guide on skip tracing cost factors.
Turnaround Times
Skip tracing is often time-sensitive. Here’s what to expect for each service level.
| Service Type | Standard Turnaround | Rush Available |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Skip Trace | 24 hours | Same day (4–6 hours) |
| Standard Skip Trace | 24–48 hours | 24 hours |
| Advanced Skip Trace | 3–7 business days | 2–3 business days |
| Deep Investigation | 1–2 weeks | 5–7 business days |
For urgent matters, rush service prioritizes your search with dedicated investigator attention. See our guide on how long skip tracing takes.
Why Professionals Choose Our Skip Tracing
When your case depends on finding someone, you can’t afford outdated data or amateur searches. Our professional skip tracing delivers results when others fail.
- 20+ years of professional skip tracing experience since 2004
- Premium databases not available to the public
- Human investigators—not just automated database dumps
- Court-tested methods for due diligence declarations
- Cross-referenced data from multiple sources
- Persistence on difficult cases when standard searches fail
- Fast turnaround—most searches within 24 hours
- 100% satisfaction guarantee on every skip trace
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
If we can’t locate usable information on your subject, we’ll refine the search or provide a refund. We’ve built our reputation on results.
Legal Compliance & Permissible Purpose
Skip tracing is legal, but accessing certain databases requires a “permissible purpose” under federal law. We ensure full compliance.
Key Regulations
- FCRA— Fair Credit Reporting Act: governs access to credit header information
- GLBA— Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act: restricts access to financial information
- DPPA— Driver’s Privacy Protection Act: limits access to DMV records
- State Privacy Laws— Various states have additional restrictions on data access and use
Common Permissible Purposes
- Service of legal process
- Debt collection on existing obligations
- Litigation and legal proceedings
- Insurance underwriting and claims
- Employment verification (with consent)
- Tenant screening (with consent)
- Locating missing heirs and beneficiaries
- Licensed investigation purposes
⚠ Important Notice
Skip tracing may not be used for stalking, harassment, or any illegal purpose. We verify permissible purpose on every search and reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who cannot demonstrate a legitimate need. Misuse of located information can result in civil and criminal liability.
For a comprehensive overview, see our guide: Is Skip Tracing Legal?
What Information Helps Us Find People
While we can often locate people with minimal data, providing more details lets us work faster and with greater accuracy.
Essential Information
- Full legal name (first, middle, last)
- Any known aliases or maiden names
- Approximate age or date of birth
Highly Valuable (Provide If Available)
- Social Security Number (even last 4 digits helps)
- Last known address (even if years old)
- Last known phone number
- Last known employer
- Driver’s license number and state
- Vehicle information (make, model, plate)
Additional Helpful Details
- Names of relatives or known associates
- Previous addresses
- Email addresses
- Social media usernames
- Physical description
- Known habits, hobbies, or affiliations
Don’t worry if you don’t have all this information—we successfully locate people with minimal starting data every day. For more, see what information is needed for a skip trace.
Nationwide Coverage
All 50 states, U.S. territories, and resources for international searches involving U.S. citizens abroad.
Each state presents unique challenges and opportunities for skip tracing. Some states have robust public records that are easily accessible, while others have restrictive privacy laws that require creative approaches. Our experience across all jurisdictions means we know where to look, what’s available, and how to navigate state-specific obstacles efficiently.
State-Specific Skip Tracing Services
Skip Tracing FAQ
Ready to Find Your Subject?
Professional skip tracing backed by 20+ years of experience and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Get started today.
Reviewed by People Locator Skip Tracing Investigation Team
Established 2004 · 20+ Years Experience · FCRA · GLBA · DPPA Compliant
A professional skip tracing service trusted by attorneys, process servers, and debt collectors since 2004.
Legal Disclaimer. People Locator Skip Tracing provides investigative services for lawful purposes only. All searches comply with applicable privacy laws including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), and state-law parallels. This page is informational and not legal advice. Specific cases typically require coordination with appropriate counsel.
