Can You Work for the Post Office with a Felony?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is one of the largest government agencies in the country, employing millions of people nationwide. However, many people are unsure if they can work for the post office with a felony conviction on their record. In this article, we will answer this question and provide detailed information on the post office’s hiring policies and what to expect during the application process.
Can the Post Office Hire Someone with a Felony?
Yes, the United States Postal Service can hire individuals with felony convictions, but it depends on the nature and severity of the offense. The USPS does not have a blanket ban on hiring individuals with felonies, but they do have specific guidelines and regulations in place to ensure that they are hiring the best-qualified candidates.
Post Office Felony Hiring Guidelines
The USPS hiring guidelines for individuals with felonies are outlined in Section 3.40 of the USPS’s Management Instructions. According to this section, the postal service will consider hiring an individual with a felony conviction if:
- The individual has been convicted of a non-violent felony crime that is more than 5 years old and has been fully satisfied (i.e., the individual has completed their sentence, including probation, parole, or supervised release).
- The individual has been convicted of a non-violent felony crime that is within the past 5 years, but has provided a written explanation and documentation to explain the circumstances surrounding the offense and has demonstrated good citizenship and rehabilitation.
Types of Felonies That May Disqualify You from Working for the Post Office
While the USPS may consider hiring individuals with certain felony convictions, there are some types of felonies that may disqualify you from working for the post office. These include:
- Crimes of violence, such as murder, assault, battery, or robbery.
- Drug-related felonies, such as distribution or possession with intent to distribute.
- Financial felonies, such as theft, embezzlement, or fraud.
- Sex-related felonies, such as sexual assault or child pornography.
The Application Process for a Post Office Job with a Felony
If you are interested in working for the post office with a felony conviction, you can follow these steps:
- Check the USPS Website: Visit the USPS website to search for job openings and to learn more about the application process.
- Fill Out the Application: Complete the online application form, which will require you to provide detailed information about your work history, education, and criminal background.
- Disclosure Requirements: If you have been convicted of a felony, you will be required to disclose this information on your application. You will also be required to provide documentation or explanation for the offense, as well as proof of rehabilitation.
- Application Review: The USPS will review your application and check your criminal background. They may also conduct a polygraph test or interview as part of the hiring process.
- Conditional Offer of Employment: If you are selected for a position, you will receive a conditional offer of employment pending a background check.
What to Expect During the Background Check**
During the background check process, the USPS will investigate your criminal history and gather information about your employment and education. They may contact your previous employers, verify your education, and interview your references. If the background check reveals any outstanding warrants, unpaid taxes, or other issues, it may affect your ability to work for the post office.
**Conclusion**
Working for the post office with a felony conviction is possible, but it depends on the nature and severity of the offense. The USPS has specific guidelines and regulations in place to ensure that they are hiring the best-qualified candidates. While some types of felonies may disqualify you from working for the post office, others may not. If you are interested in working for the USPS with a felony conviction, be prepared to disclose the offense and provide documentation and explanation. With the right approach and a strong rehabilitation record, you may still be able to secure a job with the post office.
**Table: Eligibility for USPS Jobs with Felonies**
| Type of Felony | Eligibility for USPS Job |
| — | — |
| Non-violent felony (more than 5 years old) | Eligible |
| Non-violent felony (within the past 5 years) | Eligible (with written explanation and documentation) |
| Crimes of violence | Not eligible |
| Drug-related felonies | Not eligible |
| Financial felonies | Not eligible |
| Sex-related felonies | Not eligible |
**Bullets Points:**
* The USPS can hire individuals with felony convictions, but it depends on the nature and severity of the offense.
* The USPS has specific guidelines and regulations in place for hiring individuals with felonies.
* Some types of felonies may disqualify you from working for the post office.
* You must disclose any felony convictions on your application and provide documentation and explanation.
* The USPS may conduct a background check and may contact your previous employers, references, and verify your education.
* If you have been convicted of a non-violent felony, you may still be eligible for a USPS job.
