How to opt out of SmartBackgroundChecks

1. Go to www.smartbackgroundchecks.com and search your own name + state (or full name/address/phone) using the site's normal search — this is a prerequisite, not optional, because the opt-out flow needs your specific profile.
2. Open your listing from the search results and copy its full profile URL (you'll need this if the opt-out form asks for it, and to confirm later that it's gone).
3. Go to the dedicated removal page at smartbackgroundchecks.com/optout (also linked from the 'Do Not Sell My Personal Information' link in the site footer).
4. On your profile page, click the yellow 'Request My Record To Be Removed' button; on the /optout page itself, enter a valid email address, check the box confirming you are the subject of the record, and complete the CAPTCHA, then click 'Accept Terms & Start Removal'.
5. Check your inbox for a confirmation email from SmartBackgroundChecks and click the verification link inside it — the removal does NOT take effect until this link is clicked, so this step is easy to miss.
6. Wait for processing: most independent tests show the listing disappears within 24-72 hours, though the company has told the BBB it can take 3-5 business days, and some guides say to allow up to 9 days before following up.
7. If the listing is still live after ~9 days, email privacy@mtalley.zendesk.com (or use the site's contact form) with your profile URL and the confirmation email as proof, and consider a BBB complaint if it's still ignored after that.
8. Recheck every 2-3 months: because the site re-scrapes public records, a removed profile can reappear later and need to be opted out again.

On timing: Typically 24-72 hours after clicking the email confirmation link; the company has told the BBB it can take 3-5 business days, and one independent walkthrough recommends allowing up to 9 days before escalating.

Worth knowing: Data can and does reappear because the site periodically re-scrapes public records; every source recommends rechecking your name every 2-3 months and resubmitting the opt-out if a new/duplicate listing shows up.