The Federal Bonding Program is designed to reduce one specific barrier that can make employers hesitant to hire workers with difficult employment backgrounds.
What the program provides
The U.S. Department of Labor says the program provides fidelity bonds that protect participating employers against certain losses caused by dishonest acts of a bonded employee during the first six months of employment.
Who may be eligible
Eligible groups can include justice-involved people, individuals in recovery from substance use disorder, people with limited work histories, and others who face barriers to employment.
The bond is not paid by the worker
Federal guidance states that the initial coverage is provided at no cost to the job applicant or employer.
U.S. Department of Labor federal reentry resources
Why job seekers should know about it
An employer may be more comfortable considering a candidate when a perceived financial risk has a formal public program behind it.
The program does not guarantee a job and does not replace skills, references, or a strong application. It is one tool that workforce programs, employers, and job seekers can discuss when a background creates an additional hiring concern.
