According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), federal law doesn’t prohibit employers from hiring individuals with felony convictions. However, employers have discretion in making decisions, and company policies vary widely. Chick-fil-A, a fast-food giant with over 3,000 locations in the United States, takes a franchise-based approach to hiring. This means each restaurant owner (called an “operator”) sets their own hiring standards, including how they consider applicants with criminal records.
Does Chick-fil-A Have an Official Policy on Felony Hiring?
Chick-fil-A does not publicly state an official blanket policy about hiring individuals with felony convictions. However, job postings typically mention that offers are contingent on a background check.
The absence of a corporate-wide prohibition means that in many cases, felons can apply — and sometimes get hired — depending on the local operator’s decision and the nature of the conviction.
Background Checks at Chick-fil-A
Most Chick-fil-A locations conduct third-party background checks after a conditional job offer. These usually review:
- Criminal history (county, state, and federal databases)
- Employment verification
- Education history (for certain positions)
- Sometimes, driving records (for delivery or catering roles)
How Far Back They Look?
Background check look-back periods depend on state law:
- 7 years in states like California, New York, and Texas.
- Unlimited look-back in states with no restrictions, such as Alabama and Florida.
Impact of a Felony on Hiring
Operators may reject applicants for certain offenses, especially:
- Violent crimes (assault, robbery)
- Sexual offenses
- Recent theft or fraud charges
Non-violent, older convictions — particularly if unrelated to food service — may have less impact.
EEOC Guidelines and Your Rights
The EEOC states that employers must consider:
- The nature and seriousness of the offense
- How long ago it happened
- Whether the offense relates to the job duties
For example:
- A 10-year-old drug possession conviction may be less relevant for a front-counter cashier job.
- A recent theft charge may raise concerns if the role involves handling cash.
Real-Life Applicant Experiences
Case 1: Hired Despite Felony
Marcus, 34, applied to a Chick-fil-A in Georgia with a 12-year-old non-violent felony. The operator discussed his conviction openly during the interview and decided to give him a chance. Marcus has been working there for three years and is now a shift leader.
Case 2: Application Rejected
Samantha, 28, applied in Florida with a recent theft conviction from two years prior. The operator informed her after the background check that they could not move forward, citing the role’s cash-handling responsibilities.
Older, non-violent offenses stand a better chance of being overlooked than recent or job-related felonies.
More Opportunities: Can Felons Become Cops or Police Officers?
Tips for Applying to Chick-fil-A with a Felony
- Be Honest Early
If asked about convictions, disclose them truthfully. Many operators respect honesty more than a spotless record. - Highlight Rehabilitation
Share proof of completed programs, steady work history, or community involvement. - Choose the Right Location
Apply to multiple Chick-fil-A restaurants — some operators are more open-minded. - Get References
Letters from former employers, probation officers, or mentors can strengthen your application. - Apply for Roles with Lower Risk
Kitchen prep or maintenance jobs may have fewer background-related restrictions compared to cashier positions.
State Laws That Could Help You
Some states limit how employers can use criminal records in hiring:
- Ban the Box states (like California, New Jersey, and Minnesota) prohibit employers from asking about criminal history on the initial application.
- Fair Chance Hiring laws require employers to consider applicants’ qualifications before running a background check.
If you live in one of these states, your application will likely be judged first on your skills, not your past.
How to Improve Your Chances Beyond Chick-fil-A?
While Chick-fil-A might be an option, broaden your search to other felon-friendly employers in food service, such as:
- Popeyes
- KFC
- Taco Bell
- Subway
Many chains face high turnover and may be more flexible.
Final Word
Landing a job at Chick-fil-A with a felony isn’t impossible — but it’s not guaranteed either. The biggest factor is the attitude and discretion of the local operator. By being upfront, applying strategically, and showing evidence of rehabilitation, you can increase your chances of getting a second chance at one of America’s most beloved fast-food chains.
FAQs
Does Chick-fil-A do a background check?
Yes, most locations conduct a background check after a conditional job offer.
How long does the background check take?
Usually 3–7 business days.
Can I work at Chick-fil-A with a theft conviction?
Possibly, but it’s less likely for cashier or money-handling positions.
Do all Chick-fil-A locations follow the same hiring policy?
No — each franchise owner sets their own hiring rules.
Will they ask about my felony in the interview?
If the position requires a background check, it may come up. Be prepared to discuss it honestly.
