Does Sam’s Club Hire Felons in 2025?

Many major employers are encouraged not to automatically disqualify individuals with a criminal history from job consideration. In fact, under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the EEOC urges employers to consider the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and the relevance of the crime to the job before making hiring decisions. 

Does Sam’s Club Hire Felons?

Yes — Sam’s Club can hire felons, but there’s no blanket policy that guarantees employment for everyone with a record. The hiring decision largely depends on:

• The type of felony
• How long ago it occurred
• The position applied for
• The results of your background check
• State laws governing employment rights for ex-offenders

In short, Sam’s Club doesn’t have a “no-felons” rule, but they do screen applicants carefully.

Who Owns Sam’s Club?

Let’s start with this: Sam’s Club is a division of Walmart Inc., one of the largest employers in the United States. Walmart has over 1.6 million U.S. employees, and Sam’s Club alone operates 600+ warehouse stores across the country.

Walmart has publicly stated that they support second-chance hiring. In 2013, Walmart removed the conviction history question from their job applications, following the “Ban the Box” movement.

That same policy applies to Sam’s Club — meaning they no longer ask about your criminal history on the initial application.

What Is “Ban the Box”?

“Ban the Box” is a nationwide effort to remove the checkbox asking about criminal records from job applications. It’s designed to give everyone a fair chance to be judged on their skills — not their past.

As of 2025, 37 states and over 150 cities and counties have adopted these policies. Walmart — and by extension, Sam’s Club — voluntarily adopted this practice.

Sam’s Club Application Process (Step-by-Step)

Here’s what you can expect when applying:

1. Online Application – No questions about criminal history on the form.
2. Assessment Test – Tests personality, judgment, and work ethic.
3. Interview – Usually one-on-one or panel format.
4. Background Check – After a conditional offer is made.
5. Drug Test – In most cases, especially for positions involving machinery or sensitive roles.
6. Hiring Decision – Based on all the above, including the nature of any convictions.

What Does Sam’s Club Check in Background Screening?

Sam’s Club typically runs a national background check using third-party services. Here’s what they usually review:

This screening may go back 7 to 10 years, depending on your state.

Felony Types That May Impact Hiring

Not all felonies are equal in the eyes of an employer. Here’s how different charges can affect your chances:

Real Stories: What Ex-Offenders Say About Sam’s Club

🔹 James, Tennessee

“Got out in 2019. Applied to be a stock associate. No questions about my record. Made it to the interview, then they ran the background. I had a non-violent drug felony from 2014. Got the job offer a week later.”

🔹 Lisa, Texas

“Applied for a bakery role. They told me after the interview that my background check came back with a fraud charge from 2015. They said I wasn’t eligible because the role involved handling money.”

🔹 Michael, Florida

“Had a DUI and assault on record from 2010. Was honest in the interview. They appreciated it. Didn’t get the job, but the manager encouraged me to reapply in a few months after expungement.”

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired at Sam’s Club (With a Record)

1. Be Honest if Asked – Don’t lie. Many applicants get rejected for dishonesty, not their records.
2. Apply for the Right Position – Focus on roles that don’t involve sensitive tasks like cash handling or driving.
3. Expunge Your Record – If eligible, get your conviction sealed or expunged.
4. Get a Referral – Knowing someone inside helps a lot.
5. Demonstrate Growth – Have references, volunteer work, or training that shows you’ve changed.

Know Your Legal Rights Before You Apply

Here’s what protects you:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act – Prevents discrimination based on background unless relevant.
• Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) – You must be informed if your background check affects your job application.
• State-Level Laws – Some states (like California, New York, and Illinois) have stronger protections for ex-offenders.

What If You’re Rejected?

Don’t lose hope. Here’s what you can do:

• Ask Why – Politely request clarification on why you were turned down.
• Reapply Later – Often, time can change your eligibility.
• Look into Second-Chance Programs – Programs like Goodwill, Honest Jobs, and 70 Million Jobs help felons re-enter the workforce.
• Target Other Retail Chains – Companies like Home Depot, Costco, and Lowe’s are also known to hire former felons.

Final Thought

Sam’s Club does hire felons, but like most major employers, it depends on the nature of your record, the role you’re applying for, and how long it’s been since your conviction. They follow Walmart’s second-chance hiring model, which gives thousands of people each year a fresh start.

If you’re ready to work, prepared to be honest, and willing to apply for the right kind of roles — you’ve got a real shot.

FAQs