Why It Matters and How to Get Started
Hiring someone with a criminal record might seem risky, but the truth is, it can be one of the best business decisions you make. Many formerly incarcerated individuals are eager to work, highly motivated, and deeply loyal to employers who give them a chance.
For businesses willing to look beyond a background check, second-chance hiring expands the talent pool, improves retention, and creates positive community impact—all while offering financial benefits like tax credits and federal bonding programs.
This page provides practical guidance on hiring and supporting formerly incarcerated employees, along with key programs that make the process easier.
Millions of Americans carry a criminal record, and for many, that record closes doors before they even get a chance to prove themselves. But people aren’t defined by their worst mistakes—and many are more than ready to work, build careers, and contribute to society.
By choosing to hire based on skills, potential, and work ethic, rather than just a background check, companies can:
- Reduce Recidivism – A job is one of the strongest factors in preventing repeat offenses.
- Improve Local Communities – Employment creates stability, lowers crime, and strengthens families.
- Find Committed, Hardworking Employees – Many second-chance hires stay longer and work harder because they value the opportunity.
Second-chance hiring isn’t just about helping people rebuild their lives—it’s about giving your business access to skilled, dedicated workers who might otherwise be overlooked.
The Business Benefits of Hiring Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
Beyond social impact, second-chance hiring comes with real business advantages:
✅ Loyalty & Low Turnover – Studies show that employees with records tend to be highly dedicated and have lower turnover rates.
✅ Financial Incentives – Federal and state programs offer tax credits and protections for businesses that hire returning citizens.
✅ Community & Brand Reputation – Companies known for second-chance hiring build stronger relationships with customers and communities.
✅ A Larger Talent Pool – With labor shortages in many industries, expanding hiring criteria gives businesses access to untapped potential.
How to Successfully Hire and Integrate Formerly Incarcerated Employees
1. Rethink the Hiring Process
Many companies automatically disqualify applicants based on a background check. Instead of using it as a first filter, use it later in the process to give candidates a fair shot.
- Focus on skills and experience first. Can the applicant do the job?
- Ask about their goals, not just their past. Give them space to explain their journey.
- Consider a case-by-case approach. Not all convictions are the same.
2. Provide Training & Support
The first few months of employment are critical. A structured onboarding process helps employees adjust and succeed.
- Assign a mentor or peer guide to help with workplace expectations.
- Offer skills training to bridge any gaps in experience.
- Set clear performance expectations but allow for learning curves.
3. Build a Culture of Inclusion
Creating a workplace that supports second-chance hires benefits everyone.
- Communicate to existing staff that second-chance hiring is a company commitment.
- Focus on skills and work ethic rather than past mistakes.
- Treat all employees with the same professional respect and expectations.
Programs & Resources for Employers
Several programs make hiring formerly incarcerated individuals easier and more financially beneficial:
👉 Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) – Offers up to $2,400 per hire for businesses that employ people with felony records.
👉 Federal Bonding Program – Provides free fidelity bonds to cover employers against any risk in hiring someone with a record.
👉 Second Chance Business Coalition – A network of major companies leading the way in second-chance hiring.
👉 Fair Chance Business Pledge – A commitment made by businesses to remove barriers for job applicants with records. Please note this was an Obama-era initiative and is now archived.
Employer Success Stories
coming soon!
Final Thoughts
Second-chance hiring isn’t just about giving someone a job—it’s about unlocking potential, strengthening communities, and making smart business decisions.
If you’re open to hiring but unsure where to start, these programs and resources can help you take the first step.
Hiring someone with a record may not seem like the easy choice. But for the right candidate, it could be the best decision your business ever makes.