Does Costco Hire Felons in 2025? Company Policy & Application Guide

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) over 70 million Americans have a criminal record, and for many, getting a job is one of the biggest hurdles to rebuilding their lives. Costco, one of the most recognized wholesale giants in the U.S., is often praised for its employee-first approach.

Costco Wholesale Corporation, founded in 1983 in Seattle, Washington, is the fifth largest retailer in the world. With over 875 warehouse locations worldwide (600+ in the U.S.), the company employs more than 304,000 people globally as of 2025.

Notable Costco Benefits:

• Starting hourly wage: $18.50+ (as of 2025)
• Healthcare, 401(k), and paid vacation for part-time workers
• Employee retention rate of over 90%

Costco has frequently ranked on Forbes’ “Best Employers“ list and is known for treating employees better than most big-box stores.

Does Costco Hire Felons? 

Yes—Costco may hire felons, depending on:

• The nature of the offense
• How long ago it occurred
• Whether it’s related to the job role
• State laws and warehouse location
• Evidence of rehabilitation and personal conduct

Costco doesn’t have a blanket policy banning felons. Hiring is reviewed case-by-case, and many felons have reported being hired at both entry-level and warehouse support positions.

“I disclosed my felony upfront. The manager appreciated my honesty and gave me a chance. Been working here 4 years now.”
— Marcus T., Costco Employee in Texas

What is Costco’s Hiring Policy?

Costco doesn’t publicly advertise an official policy about hiring felons on its corporate site. But according to multiple sources like Indeed, Glassdoor, and community forums such as Reddit, Costco does not discriminate solely based on criminal records.

Costco complies with Ban the Box laws where applicable, which means they don’t ask about convictions on the initial application in certain states like:

• California
• Illinois
• Minnesota
• Massachusetts
• Georgia
• New York

States Where Felon-Friendly Laws Apply:

• California: AB 1008 prohibits employers from asking about criminal history before a conditional job offer.
• Illinois: The Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act limits criminal history disclosure.
• New York City: Under the Fair Chance Act, employers must evaluate candidates individually.

What Type of Background Check Does Costco Do?

Costco conducts a pre-employment background check after a conditional job offer is made. The check typically includes:

• County and federal criminal record check
• Social Security number validation
• Employment verification
• Possibly credit check (for financial roles only)

Key Facts:

• Background checks go back 7 years in most states (California, Texas, Washington, etc.)
• Costco uses third-party agencies like HireRight
• The process takes 3–7 business days

🚫 Crimes that may raise red flags:

• Fraud or theft (especially for cashier roles)
• Violent offenses or sexual crimes
• Ongoing legal cases or parole violations

✅ However, for non-violent crimes, older convictions, and if you’re upfront during interviews, you may still get hired.

Does Costco Drug Test Applicants?

Yes, Costco does perform drug tests as part of the hiring process. Here’s what you can expect:

• Urine test at a certified testing facility
• Usually done after the interview and background check
• Tested for: THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, etc.

Some states like California and New York have relaxed cannabis testing for employment, but Costco may still test depending on store policy.

Tips for Felons Applying at Costco

Here’s how to boost your chances of getting hired at Costco:

• Be Honest: Never lie on your application or during interviews.
• Get References: Letters from former employers or community leaders help.
• Prepare an Explanation: Be ready to explain what happened and what you’ve done since.
• Highlight Rehab or Training: Show that you’ve worked to turn things around.
• Dress the Part: Show professionalism at your interview.
• Start with Entry-Level: Positions like stocker, cart attendant, or janitor are easier to get in with.

Best Costco Positions for Applicants With a Record

Here are roles where Costco has previously hired individuals with records:

• Stocker / Merchandiser
• Cart Attendant
• Janitor / Maintenance
• Food Court Assistant
• Cashier Assistant
• Seasonal Associate

Once you’re in and prove yourself, Costco has a strong internal promotion culture.

How to Apply at Costco With a Felony Record?

Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Visit: https://www.costco.com/jobs.html
2. Select Your Location
3. Create a Profile (Don’t rush this—make it professional)
4. Choose an Entry-Level Role
5. Wait for Contact: If selected, Costco will call or email you
6. Attend Interview: Be upfront about your past when asked
7. Pass Drug Test & Background Check
8. Start Training

⏱️ Average hiring time: 2–4 weeks

Costco is known for giving people a second chance if they show personal growth, accountability, and professionalism. So if you’re ready to work hard, show up, and start fresh—Costco might just open its doors to you.

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