Hiring freelance private investigators? Let’s talk money.

You don’t want to overpay. But lowballing? That’ll get your job ignored—or worse, attract the wrong kind of help.

So what should you budget for subcontract PI work? And what affects the rate?

Let’s break it down.

What’s the Average Rate for a Freelance Private Investigator?

Most subcontract investigators charge by the hour or the job.

Here’s a quick look:

• Surveillance: $35–$100/hour
• Background checks or skip traces: $200–$500 flat
• Court research or document retrieval: $40–$75/hour
• Expert consulting or testimony: $100–$250/hour

Please note that rates vary by state, case type, and experience.

What Impacts the Price?

Private investigators don’t all charge the same. Here’s what drives the number up (or down):

• Licensing requirements in that state
  
  

• Urban vs. rural location
  
  

• Time sensitivity or rush delivery
  
  

• Travel involved
  
  

• Risk level (e.g., surveillance in bad weather or sketchy areas)
  
  

• How specialized the task is
  
  

Tip: When in doubt, ask for a rate sheet or quote before assigning the job.

What About Flat Rates vs. Hourly?

Some jobs work best with flat fees—like simple background checks or court pulls.

Surveillance? Go hourly. So do complex, open-ended cases.

Whatever you choose, spell it out in the subcontractor agreement:

• Rate
  
  

• Max billable hours (if hourly)
  
  

• What expenses are covered
  
  

• How and when they’ll get paid
  
  

Don’t Forget These Extra Costs

If you're budgeting for a job, include:

• Mileage or travel expenses
• Equipment rental (if you’re providing it)
• Time spent testifying in court
• Time for prep, reporting, and file handling
• A case that looks cheap can balloon fast if you skip these line items.

Pay Fast, Stay on Their Good Side

Nothing frustrates freelance private investigators more than slow pay.

If you promise payment within 7 days of receiving the report—stick to it.

Building a good rep as a fast payer will help you attract better subcontractors next time.

Where to Post Private Investigator Jobs and Budget Smarter

You can set the pay rate when you post on Investigator Jobs Portal. Use our job templates, pick the case type, and customize your offer.

Final Word: Budget Right, Hire the Right Private Investigator

Good work costs money—but it’s worth every penny when the case goes smooth.

Understand the rates. Set a budget. Put it all in writing.

And always post your jobs where licensed investigators are already looking.