Four words: Automation and Continous Evaluation (CE).
With more and more employers using the work number, e-verify systems, or not cooperating in general, there will be less reliance upon the field. I’ve also noticed many educational institutions going to the National Student Clearinghouse Database for transcripts.
Throw in CE, and now you remove 35-40% of the total volume of investigations and Investigators.
You’ll have to be retired with an income to remain in the industry, have a secondary income or spouse working, or live nearby an area where there is always a demand for BI’s even with CE and automation.
I think FY21 will be a rough year for everyone especially those trying to do this Full Time.