According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, over 19 million U.S. citizens have felony convictions on their record as of 2023. That includes thousands looking for a second chance in the workforce. Big retailers like Hobby Lobby, with over 1,000 stores in 48 states, are often a top choice for job seekers.
What Is Hobby Lobby?
Founded in 1972, Hobby Lobby is a private, faith-based arts-and-crafts retail chain headquartered in Oklahoma City. It employs over 43,000 people and operates more than 1,000 stores across the U.S.
Their company mission reflects Christian values, including Sunday closures and holiday pay. While they’re not a “Ban the Box” employer by default, they’ve been part of broader conversations around second chances due to their faith-based culture.
Does Hobby Lobby Hire Felons in 2025?
Yes, but it depends on the conviction and position.
There is no official public statement on Hobby Lobby’s website directly saying they hire or don’t hire felons. However, multiple job applicants and employees across sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Reddit have reported getting hired with felony convictions—especially for entry-level roles like cashier, stocker, or warehouse associate.
Hobby Lobby evaluates each application on a case-by-case basis.
Confirmed Cases of Felon Hires
- A Reddit user in r/JobsForFelons shared in 2023:
“I was convicted of drug possession in 2016 and applied to Hobby Lobby in 2022. Got hired as a stock associate in their warehouse. They were actually really nice about it.” - An Indeed reviewer posted:
“They did a background check, but I explained my felony during the interview. Manager said as long as it’s not theft or violent crime, I could still be considered. I got the job!”
What Types of Felonies Might Disqualify You?
While Hobby Lobby might hire felons, they tend to be more cautious about certain charges, especially:
| Felony Type | Hiring Likelihood | Notes |
| Theft or embezzlement | ❌ Low | Poses risk in retail settings |
| Violent crimes | ⚠️ Varies | Depends on how recent and severity |
| Drug-related offenses | ✅ Moderate to High | Many applicants with drug felonies were hired |
| Sex offenses | ❌ Very Low | High risk in public customer-facing jobs |
| DUI/DWI | ✅ Moderate | Possible for non-driving roles |
| Fraud | ⚠️ Low to Moderate | Depends on position’s access to finances |
If your conviction is over 5 years old, your chances increase significantly—especially for non-cash handling roles like stock or warehouse.
What’s the Background Check Process at Hobby Lobby?
Hobby Lobby does conduct criminal background checks before hiring, particularly after the first interview. Here’s how it typically works:
- Application Submitted (online or in-store)
- Initial Interview
- Consent Form for Background Check
- Background Check Conducted
- Second Interview or Offer Letter
What They Look For:
- Criminal convictions (felony or misdemeanor)
- Pending charges
- Work history consistency
- Gaps in employment
- Identity verification (SSN)
Background checks are handled by third-party agencies and typically go back 7–10 years, depending on your state.
Does Hiring Vary by State?
Yes! States have different laws around employment background checks and “Ban the Box” laws:
| State | Ban the Box | Felon-Friendly Notes |
| California | ✅ Yes | Employers can’t ask until after offer |
| Texas | ❌ No | Hobby Lobby still hires but more scrutiny |
| Illinois | ✅ Yes | Fair chance laws apply |
| Florida | ❌ No | Employers can ask about felonies on app |
| Georgia | ✅ Yes | Felony convictions can’t be automatic disqualifiers |
If you’re applying in a Ban the Box state, your record won’t be asked about early in the process—which gives you time to present yourself fully before it comes up.
What Positions Are Most Open to Felons at Hobby Lobby?
Felons are more likely to be hired in non-cash handling or behind-the-scenes roles:
- Warehouse associate
- Stock clerk
- Custodian/Janitorial
- Truck loader
- Seasonal worker
- Night shift stocking
Look for positions at Hobby Lobby’s distribution centers—they tend to be less strict than retail stores and have hired many individuals with records.
How To Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired?
Here are 6 proven ways to boost your chances with Hobby Lobby:
- Be Honest – Lying on your application will almost always lead to disqualification if caught during the background check.
- Apply in Person – Dress professionally and ask to speak to the hiring manager directly.
- Get a Reference – If you know someone who works there or can vouch for you, bring that up.
- Write a Letter of Explanation – Explain your past, what you’ve done since, and why you’re a good hire.
- Complete a Certification – OSHA, Forklift Operation, or Customer Service Certs can help.
- Apply to Entry-Level or Warehouse Roles First – Easier to get your foot in the door.
Know Your Rights as an Applicant With a Criminal Record
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines:
- Employers must get your written consent before a background check.
- You have a right to explain your conviction before being disqualified.
- You must receive a “Pre-Adverse Action” letter if you’re being denied because of your record.
- Some states have expungement laws—you may be able to clear your record.
Check your state’s expungement laws
Other Companies That Hire Felons
If Hobby Lobby doesn’t work out, here are 10 companies known for hiring felons:
- Walmart
- Target
- Amazon Warehouse
- Kroger
- Goodwill
- UPS
- FedEx
- Costco
- Home Depot
- PepsiCo
Final Thought
Hobby Lobby does hire felons in 2025—but it’s not a guarantee. Your chances depend on the type of felony, how long ago it occurred, and the job you’re applying for. They conduct background checks but evaluate on a case-by-case basis. With honesty, the right approach, and some persistence, you can still land a job—even with a past conviction.
Don’t let your past define your future. Hobby Lobby may not say it out loud, but they’ve given second chances before—and they can again.
Final Thought
Does Hobby Lobby drug test during hiring?
Yes, for warehouse and some in-store roles. It’s often a urine test.
Can I apply again if I was denied because of my felony?
Yes, you can reapply after 6 months. Try applying for a different location or job title.
How long does the hiring process take?
About 1–2 weeks, depending on the position and background check turnaround.
