How do I choose between Searchbug’s People Search API (api_ppl), Contact Info API (api_contact), and Name, Address, Phone & Email API (api_nape)?
Use the People Search API (api_ppl) when you need the highest match accuracy, deeper background indicators, and the option to add Restricted Access for SSN and driver’s license data in high‑stakes workflows like fraud prevention, skip tracing, and compliance checks.
Choose the Contact Info API (api_contact) for everyday identity verification, CRM cleanup, and lead enrichment where you want strong match rates and good value without paying premium people‑search pricing.
Use the Name, Address, Phone & Email API (api_nape) for economical, high‑volume contact discovery and list cleanup where broad coverage is more important than the deepest possible data.
For a detailed comparison of when each API is best, see our guide on Searchbug People Search APIs.
How can I optimize People Search API costs using Searchbug’s api_ppl, api_contact, and api_nape without sacrificing data quality?
A common way to lower your effective cost per result is to design a workflow that uses lower‑priced APIs as a first pass and escalates only the “no‑hit” records to the premium People Search API (api_ppl).
For example, you might start high‑volume lists with Name, Address, Phone & Email (api_nape) at the lowest price point, then send unresolved records to the Contact Info API (api_contact), and finally route the most critical or still unresolved records to the People Search API (api_ppl) where you need the deepest data and strongest match accuracy.
High‑volume users can also combine this workflow with annual plans to lock in lower per‑hit rates.
Our People Search API Cost Optimization white paper shows specific scenarios, blended‑cost examples, and workflow diagrams to help you design a cost‑effective implementation.
Are Searchbug APIs suitable for KYC compliance?
Yes. Many financial and insurance organizations use them to validate customer information before onboarding.
How do I pay for API services?
All APIs operate on a prepaid balance. Load between $10 and $5,000, and each successful query deducts from your balance. When funds run low, your balance automatically replenishes with your preset amount.
How does the API pricing work?
When a query is successful (called a "hit"), charges apply. There is no charge if there is no information found on a query. Some APIs like Criminal Check are priced per search, where No Results means that a person does not have a criminal record, which is considered a successful query with useful information.
The API price decreases as your monthly volume increases, making it cost-effective for businesses handling high search volumes. You can also apply for Annual Plan if you want to lock in your rates and save up to 60% compared to a non-commitment monthly plan.
Can I test the API before purchasing?
Yes! We offer free API testing for qualified users. Register for a no-obligation Sandbox API Test Account, and you'll receive a limited number of live queries to evaluate the quality of our data before fully integrating.
How often is the data updated?
Searchbug uses multiple data sources and advanced algorithms to ensure data is fresh, accurate, and continuously updated.
Need Something Custom?
If you don't see the exact API you need, Searchbug can build a custom API tailored to your workflow or data challenges. Contact us to discuss your requirements.
