Fidelity bonds reduce hiring risk for job seekers whose backgrounds may make employers reluctant to hire them, including many people with a criminal record or other employment barrier.
Job seeker facing a background-related hiring barrier, including a justice-involved applicantEmployer prepared to hire an eligible worker
Entitlement facts
Benefit type
Employment program. A public or nonprofit program providing job preparation, training, placement support, work supports, or employer-risk assistance. Taxonomy definition →
What it unlocks
A no-cost bond for the initial employment period that protects the employer against specified employee dishonesty losses.
Who qualifies
Job seeker facing a background-related hiring barrier, including a justice-involved applicant; Employer prepared to hire an eligible worker
Requirements
The job seeker must face a qualifying employment barrier, such as a criminal record or another background-related risk, and have a bona fide job offer that meets program rules. State coordinators determine eligibility and issue bonds; self-employment and some job types are excluded.
How to activate
Contact the state bonding coordinator or an American Job Center, confirm the job offer and eligibility, and have the coordinator issue the bond.
Cost basis
No-cost access. The core benefit has no required payment, purchase, deposit, paid membership, or pre-existing paid-product relationship under the captured terms.
Cost and fees
No charge to the eligible job seeker or employer for the initial federal bond. Continued commercial coverage may cost extra.
Geography
US, Administered through state and local coordinators
Personalization
Published eligibility is not described as individually targeted.
EVIDENCE / 1 SOURCE
Eligibility is conditional, not guaranteed.
Check the provider's final terms immediately before applying, depositing funds, spending, or changing a paid relationship.