Is it OK to put terminated on an application?

Asked by: Jacinthe McKenzie  |  Last update: July 20, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (47 votes)

If you prefer, you can simply write "job ended," "laid off," or "terminated" on your job application.

Should you put terminated on a job application?

Your job application needs only a brief version of why you were terminated. Explaining in great detail can cause a hiring manager to decide to interview other applicants. Keep it short but positive. If you were terminated for job performance issues, state the reason and what steps you've made to improve yourself since.

How do you say you were terminated on an application?

You can say that you were “let go,” for example. That one tends to work well in most situations. If you were made redundant, say that instead. Consider how you can best describe what happened to you and why your contract was terminated in your last role.

Does a termination show up on a background check?

The Hard Truth: Yep, It Goes on Your Record

Most companies will at least note the fact that you were terminated, even if they're light on specifics. Oftentimes, when a new employer checks your references, all they can check is your dates of employment and whether of not you're “eligible for rehire”.

Can you get hired after being terminated?

Getting hired after being fired is quite possible. Highlight your skills, address the past honestly, and show growth. Many employers value resilience and improvement. Approach each application with confidence and a positive attitude to turn potential setbacks into new opportunities.

I Was Fired! Do I Put That On My Job Application? From Tory Johnson

23 related questions found

How long does a termination stay on your record?

How long do employers keep employee records in California? Payroll records and timecards should be retained for a minimum of three years after termination.

How long after termination can you apply?

It depends on the circumstances of your termination and the company's policies. If you left on good terms, you might be able to apply right away. If there was bad blood, it's best to wait a while and let things cool off. In general, give it at least a few months before reaching out.

Does termination look bad on your record?

Yes, being fired goes on your record. When you get hired, human resources starts a file gathering your working history information. That includes all your basic info, performance reviews, job title, dates of employment, and specifics of your departure.

Should I put a job on my resume if I was fired?

Just because you lost the job doesn't mean you can't put it on your resume , as you may have gained valuable experiences and skills during your time there. Ultimately, the choice of whether to include it is up to you and what makes you feel comfortable.

Can I say I quit if I was fired?

Hiring managers ask a number of questions during the recruitment and hiring process. Often, hiring managers want to know about your reasons for leaving a past position when screening applicants. If you were fired from that job, it's best to prepare in advance to answer as positively as possible.

Do employers care if you were fired?

It is natural to be concerned about the perception other employers will have when they hear the news that you were fired from a previous role. But, believe it or not, prospective employers don't look as negatively on candidates who have been fired from jobs as they do on candidates who have voluntarily quit jobs.

How do you answer if you have been terminated?

Here are a few steps to take to help you explain your termination to a future employer:
  1. Be honest. ...
  2. Keep it short and simple. ...
  3. Share your improvements. ...
  4. Focus on the positives and what you have to offer. ...
  5. Use the STAR technique. ...
  6. Practice your response.

Do you have to disclose termination?

Are You Required to Disclose You Were Fired in an Interview? If a hiring manager doesn't ask, then there's no need to tell. It's best to avoid disclosing any potentially negative information about yourself during an interview if you don't have to.

Should I say fired or terminated?

While employees who have been terminated vs laid off from a job might say they've been fired by their company, HR professionals know this isn't always an accurate description. Termination is a broad term that simply means the employee-employer relationship has ended.

How do you say terminated on a job application?

Be brief and to the point. Your future employer doesn't need to know all the details. In fact, we advise you to discuss the reason for being fired only if you're asked. Avoid the words 'I was fired', use more neutral phrases such as 'let go', 'role termination', or even 'mutual separation' if relevant to your situation ...

Is it OK to reapply for a job after being fired?

Can you get rehired after being fired? Yes, there is a chance. If you have been let go because you were not a good fit or due to poor performance and now believe you have improved professionally, you could apply again.

Can a background check find out if you were fired?

Can a Background Check Reveal if a Candidate Was Fired? It's possible that a job candidate's previous employers will reveal if he or she was fired from their previous job and the reason for the dismissal. However, in most cases, don't expect to receive this information.

Should I put terminated on a job application on Reddit?

You can put it down for sure. If asked about why you left, just tell them you are seeking to transition into a new role and are seeking new opportunities (which is technically true from the sound of it). The only thing is that you probably will not be able to call upon them as a reference.

What should I put as a reason for leaving if I was fired?

You might want to go in softer by saying that you were “let go” or “laid off”. The words you use have real power. “Fired” is an inherently negative word and will stick out in an interviewer's mind.

Can an employer lie about termination?

Lying itself may not be illegal, but it can be evidence that your termination was motivated by an illegal rationale. Otherwise, why not tell the truth? We often prove wrongful termination by showing that your employer is not telling the truth about why you were fired.

Can other jobs see if you were fired?

Even if your previous employer doesn't disclose details of your termination, they may tell the potential employer that you were terminated, which doesn't reflect well on you if you stated that you were laid off.

Should I be honest about being terminated?

Honesty establishes trust, which is crucial to building a positive relationship with the potential employer—lying or being misleading will damage that. When you lie, there is always the possibility that the employer will find out eventually, so it is better to avoid that conflict altogether by being forthcoming.

Does termination stay on your record?

If an employee is involuntarily terminated, his/her personnel records must be retained for one year from the date of termination. Under ADEA recordkeeping requirements, employers must also keep all payroll records for three years.

Can you be hired after termination?

The good news is that many people have successfully landed new jobs after being fired. You can, too. I consulted hiring managers, human resources professionals, and employment attorneys for their advice.

Does terminated mean fired or quit?

The main difference between resignation and termination lies in who initiated the severance of employment. With a resignation, you decide to end your employment; whereas in contrast, with a termination, your employer makes the decision to end your employment.