There are 2 types of companies that pump septic tanks in our neighborhood:  Full Service, and Pump only.  Most of the companies are pump only.  That is, they empty your tank and dispose of the contents.  They may or may not inspect your tank as well.Full service companies pump the tank, but will inspect the tank, and repair baffles, replace the pump if you have one, and install a new drain field.  Using a full service company to pump your tank is more expensive, but might make good sense if you already suspect you have a problem.

The EPA recommends that septic tanks be pumped out every 3-5 years:

The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often, generally once a year. (A service contract is important since alternative systems have mechanized parts.)

 These are the major factors that influence how often to pump your septic system:

• Household size
• Total wastewater generated
• Volume of solids in wastewater
• Septic tank size

Homeowners Guide to Septic Systems Brochure (epa.gov)

Our survey of the price to pump a 1000-gallon concrete tank is listed below.  The price assumes that the access to the tank is above ground and does not require digging to reach it.  There is more detail on the attached spreadsheet.  If you have a different size tank or needs, contact information for the companies surveyed is also included on the spreadsheet.