The Work Number vs FormFree
Verification & Data head-to-head · axis by axis, same rubric for both
Equifax Inc.
FormFree Holdings Corporation
| Axis | The Work Number | FormFree |
|---|---|---|
| Production impact | 4.1 | 2.1 |
| Functionality & depth | 3.6 | 2.3 |
| Integrations & ecosystem | 4.3 | 1.4 |
| Adoption & support | 3.5 | 2.1 |
| Return on spend | 1.8 | 2.1 |
| Overall | 3.4 | 2.0 |
The Work Number wins 4 of 5 axes. Same rubric, same weights, no sponsorships.
What the rubric says
The Work Number and FormFree are both scored in Verification & Data. The Work Number carries an overall of 3.4, FormFree an overall of 2. The widest gap between them is Integrations and ecosystem, at 2.9 of a point. That axis measures how well it reaches the rest of the stack. The Work Number takes it, 4.3 to 1.4.
Where the five axes separate
On Integrations and ecosystem the record favours The Work Number, 4.3 against 1.4. On Production impact the record favours The Work Number, 4.1 against 2.1. On Adoption and support the record favours The Work Number, 3.5 against 2.1.
Pricing posture
The Work Number does not publish pricing. Its listed model is quote only, priced per verification. FormFree does not publish pricing. Its listed model is quote only.
Deployment and who each one targets
Deployment for The Work Number: Cloud, reached by REST API, batch SFTP, web portal or direct LOS integration. Deployment for FormFree: Cloud, integration path not published. Segment focus for The Work Number: Any lender that needs instant employment and income data with GSE rep and warrant. Segment focus for FormFree: Lenders pursuing cash flow underwriting and expanded credit eligibility. The two entries name different buyers.
What each record credits
The Work Number: Authorized for Fannie Mae DU validation and Freddie Mac AIM, so hits bring relief. FormFree: Passport pairs direct-source bank data with a credit score, supporting thin-file lending.
What each record holds against them
The Work Number: Highest per-verification cost in the category; a class action alleges $17.85 rose to $66.45. FormFree: AccountChek, the brand lenders remember, now belongs to Stewart via Informative Research.
Which one fits which shop
Best fit for The Work Number: Lenders who need the highest instant hit rate and have decided to pay. Best fit for FormFree: A lender wanting trended cash flow alongside a bureau score to qualify thin-file borrowers.
The short answer
The Work Number finishes ahead on the published rubric, 3.4 to 2. The margin comes mostly from Integrations and ecosystem. Same rubric, same weights, no sponsorships.
Both tools are scored on the same weighted rubric, production impact carries the most weight. Comparisons are never sponsored. Disclosure →