Can a felon hold a government job?
Asked by: Mr. Kamryn Kautzer | Last update: September 9, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (21 votes)
Yes, you can work for the Federal Government if you have a criminal record and were formerly incarcerated. People with criminal records are eligible to apply to most federal jobs, however there are some exceptions.
Does the US government hire felons?
People with criminal records are eligible for employment in the vast majority of federal jobs. For a few positions, they may not be eligible because specific laws or statutes prohibit employment, depending on the crime committed.
What is the best job a felon can get?
Lot of skilled trade jobs like construction, welding, landscaping, electrician, plumber, pipefitter and gas fitter will hire felons which you can find on indeed and Craigslist along with in person job site. Also truck driving too. Even restraunts and slaughterhouses along with meat packing plants.
What will disqualify you from federal employment?
- Felony criminal convictions.
- Arrests for serious misdemeanors.
- Financial issues indicating irresponsibility.
- Dishonesty on resumes or applications.
- Serious mental health conditions.
- Substance abuse.
Can you be a government contractor with a felony?
The simple answer to your question is yes. Your felony conviction will not prevent you from starting a business or winning government contracts. The biggest issue you will have is if there is a need for a security clearance on the contract. City, county, and state contracts would be easier than federal.
Can a felon get a government job?
Can a convicted felon get a government job?
An individual can work for the Federal Government if they have a criminal record. This is true even if they were formerly incarcerated.
What kind of business can a felon own?
- Start Freelancing On Fiverr Or Upwork.
- Online Business.
- Lawn Care Business.
- Car Wash Owner.
- Dry Cleaning.
- Carpentry, Welding, or Plumbing.
- Affiliate Marketing.
- Open a Pet Grooming Salon.
What can stop you from getting a government job?
- Certain federal laws, like those prohibiting treason, carry with them a lifelong ban on federal employment.
- Other federal laws prohibit federal employment for a certain number of years.
Can a felon pass a federal background check?
Yes, you can work for the Federal Government if you have a criminal record and were formerly incarcerated. People with criminal records are eligible to apply to most federal jobs, however there are some exceptions.
Does the USPS hire felons?
It is Postal Service policy to evaluate the employability of each applicant with a criminal conviction record individually. The fact that an applicant has a criminal conviction record is not sufficient to disqualify that applicant from postal employment.
Do felonies go away after 7 years?
Dismissed felony charges can usually be sealed or expunged right away. In California, a felony conviction stays on your record forever if you do not get it expunged. You may be eligible for an expungement if you did not serve time in state prison.
What states are felon friendly?
- California.
- Colorado.
- Kansas.
- Maryland.
- Massachusetts.
- Montana.
- Nevada.
- New Hampshire.
Can a felon join the military?
Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases. The offenses and moral behavior-related issues that cannot be waived include: If you are under civil restraint, including parole, confinement, or probation.
Does FBI hire felons?
FBI Eligibility
Be a U.S. citizen. Public record must be in good standing with no felony convictions. Adherence with FBI drug policy. Pass urinalysis and background investigation.
What jobs can a felon not have?
They're typically restricted from credentials for occupations in the Department of Public Health's jurisdiction or in real estate, the distribution of drugs or pharmaceuticals, pest control, embalming and insurance sales.
What is the federal program for hiring felons?
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
It applies to previously incarcerated individuals hired no later than one year after conviction or release from prison. The WOTC can provide an employer up to $9,600 in tax relief for each qualifying hire.
How far back do federal background checks go?
In states like California, criminal background checks go back seven years. However, some states allow a deeper look into your past if the job pays a higher salary (usually over $75,000). Some government jobs or jobs with access to sensitive information may allow - even require - background checks further.
Does the CIA hire felons?
Criminal or Unethical Behavior: We trust our employees to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Recent involvement in criminal or unethical behavior can disqualify you from getting a clearance. This includes pending criminal charges, felony convictions, and a dishonorable discharge.
What rights do federal felons lose?
- Voting rights.
- Ability to travel abroad.
- Gun ownership.
- Jury service.
- Employment in certain fields.
- Public assistance and housing.
- Parental rights.
What government jobs can a felon get in the US?
- Military Service - U.S. Navy Search & Rescue. ...
- Retail Store Key Holder. ...
- UpSpire. ...
- Military Service - U.S. Navy Reserve, Construction. ...
- WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS OF TARRANT COUNTY. ...
- Strengthen your profile. ...
- Military Service - U.S. Air National Guard, Aircrew Flight Equipment. ...
- Federal Air Marshal.
What fails a government background check?
Discrepancies in your employment or education history, major financial problems, or even lying on your application can trigger a failed check. For jobs requiring security clearance, a history of drug use, financial instability, or even risky personal relationships can raise red flags.
Can I work for government with a criminal record?
Yes, you can work for the Federal Government if you have a criminal record and were formerly incarcerated. People with criminal records are eligible to apply to most federal jobs, however there are some exceptions.
What can felons do to make money?
- Digital marketer. National average salary: $62,307 per year Primary duties: Digital marketers specialize in developing online advertising campaigns and overseeing brand communications. ...
- Freelance designer. ...
- Painter. ...
- Maintenance worker. ...
- Entrepreneur. ...
- Web developer. ...
- Truck driver. ...
- Barber.
Can a felon get a federal grant?
Are there grants for those convicted of felonies to start their own businesses? Yes. Formerly incarcerated individuals may be able to get startup business grants from the federal government and their state or local government.
Why do companies not hire felons?
Employers' reluctance to hire such individuals may be prompted by law or by fear of litigation. Some occupations, such as those involving contact with children, are legally closed to people with felony convictions.