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The truth is that some companies hire many people with a record. They look for people who have the skills and abilities to do the work, even if they have a criminal record. Others may be afraid that people who have criminal records won't be good workers. In those cases, it's up to you to show them that's not true.

So, what can you do to increase your chances of getting hired? Here are a few tips:

Contact a community organization. There are hundreds of local service providers across the country who specialize in helping ex-offenders find work.

• Different local service providers offer different services. Some place workers in jobs with local employers. Others offer training and resources to help with your job search. Some even have a list of companies in their area that have hired people with criminal records.
• Find a service provider near you by selecting your state in the State Resources box at the bottom of this page.

Use multiple ways to connect with employers. Try several of the following:

• Talk with family, friends, counselors and others about the kind of work you'd like, and ask for job leads.
• Contact employers in person, by phone and online to ask about job openings in your field.
• Apply to jobs you find in online job banks.
• Attend job fairs and introduce yourself to different employers.
• Visit employers in your community to apply for jobs.

Tell employers about the Federal Bonding Program. It’s a free service that offers security to employers who hire justice-involved workers.

• Some employers may be worried about theft or dishonesty by workers. The Federal Bonding Program offers them peace of mind in the form of insurance.
• Bonds cover up to $5,000 for any employee dishonesty committed on or away from the workplace.
• Federal bonding is no cost to employers or workers.
• The process is simple and can be completed over the phone with no paperwork to sign.
• Print a brochure (see link below) to bring to employers or tell them to call 1 (877) US2-JOBS to get more information.
• You can visit your nearest American Job Center (see link below) to get more information.

See if you qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit It gives tax discounts to employers who hire someone with a criminal record or another barrier to employment.

• You can qualify for WOTC if it’s been less than one year since you were convicted of a felony or released from prison for a felony. You might also qualify if you are low-income or have been unemployed for six months or more.
• Visit an American Job Center (find the closest one using the link below) to see if you qualify.
• If you do qualify, ask for a “pre-certification” letter that you can show employers during your job search.
• You can also print a brochure about WOTC to bring to interviews. See the link at the bottom of this screen.

Learn more at How do I talk about my conviction?