Does Costco Hire Felons? My Experience and What You Should Know

When you reenter society after serving time, finding a job can be one of the biggest challenges. Of course, there are a lot of questions to answer – finding a place to live, a job, and generally figuring out how to live in a world where the rules are not so strict, or where the rules are not broken. One question I often get asked is: does Costco hire felons?

I often help people going through the post-prison period. I have seen all kinds of people during this time, some who do not want to change at all, and others who genuinely want to erase their prison stay from their memory and their record. These are the people I am truly committed to helping.

In this article, I will tell you what you need to know about applying for a job at Costco if you have a criminal record, based on my personal observations and some expert insights. In addition, I will talk about how programs like Section 8 Housing can help smooth the transition by easing some of the financial pressure you may be experiencing.

What Makes Costco a Great Employer?

Before diving into whether Costco hires felons, let’s talk about why so many people are eager to work there. If you’ve ever shopped at Costco, you know that it’s more than just a wholesale store. I personally love this store because they have a very good attitude towards customers and the atmosphere in the store itself. But also, after looking at their ads, I saw that they offer pretty good wages, benefits, and opportunities for growth, which is certainly great for helping former inmates begin a stable life and grow professionally.

I believe that such conditions are already a hope for stability when a person can be confident in a potential increase in income, have plans and no longer want to return to a marginal lifestyle.

Costco’s benefits include healthcare, 401(k) matching, and even bonuses for long-time employees. Compared to some other major retailers, it’s no wonder people gravitate toward this company. But the big question remains—do they hire people with a felony on their record?

Does Costco Hire Felons?

The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it than that. Like many large companies, Costco does conduct background checks as part of its hiring process. They want to know if you have any criminal history, but that doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Several people I’ve spoken to who have records say they’ve been hired at Costco, and their past wasn’t an issue.

Costco considers the nature of the felony, how long ago it occurred, and your overall qualifications for the job. For instance, if your conviction was a long time ago and you’ve stayed out of trouble since, your chances of getting hired increase significantly. Plus, the role you’re applying for matters. It’s easier to get a warehouse or stocking position than one that handles cash or involves managerial responsibilities.

Real-Life Experiences

I remember talking to someone who’d been incarcerated for several years. After release, finding work was a challenge. But when he applied to Costco, they didn’t just dismiss him because of his past. He went through the usual interview process and ended up getting hired in the warehouse. He’s now been with the company for over five years, and he’s been promoted twice. That’s the kind of opportunity Costco can offer if you’re ready to work hard and prove yourself.

I’ve seen similar stories on Reddit and other forums, where people with criminal records shared their positive experiences with Costco’s hiring process. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s clear that the company is open to giving second chances to those who are committed to turning their lives around.

What Jobs at Costco Are Best for Felons?

So, what Costco jobs should you focus on if you have a criminal record? I’ve picked out the most popular and best options for you to apply for:

• Warehouse Associate.
• Merchandiser.
• Customer Service Associate.

Yes, at first you may not be allowed to deal with financial transactions. Don’t lose hope—if you demonstrate professionalism and that you can be trusted, then your candidacy may be considered for higher positions over time. Just take your time.

How Section 8 Can Help?

Now let’s talk about how Section 8 Housing ties into all of this. The housing program is the foundation for building a person’s future after being released from prison. Because before looking for a job, it is very important to understand that there is a place that is warm and cozy, where you can relax after a hard day at work.

If the ex-convict has a family and children, then the worries about their comfort and safety will also be resolved with the help of the Section 8 housing program. The good news is, these two things can work together.

When you’re trying to get back on your feet, having the financial pressure of rent taken off your shoulders through Section 8 allows you to focus on landing a good job, like one at Costco. Not only that but once you’ve secured a steady job, it can make maintaining your Section 8 status easier, as many housing authorities take employment status into account.

I’ve known people who used Section 8 to stabilize their housing situation while working at places like Costco. Having that support in place can be a huge relief when you’re adjusting to life post-incarceration.

Comparing Costco to Other Retailers

If you’re considering Costco, you might also wonder how they compare to other large retailers like Walmart when it comes to hiring felons. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Walmart. They’ve made efforts in recent years to give more people with records a chance, but many report that the hiring process is still competitive, and background checks can be strict.
• Target. Target has publicly stated that they’re open to hiring felons, but much like Walmart, it depends on the store and the position.

In my experience, Costco stands out because of its focus on employee satisfaction and long-term growth. It’s one thing to get hired, but it’s another to have a workplace where you can actually build a career.

Tips for Getting Hired at Costco

Here are some expert tips:

• Having someone who can vouch for your work ethic and character can make a big difference, especially if you’ve done any community service or worked for a nonprofit since your release.
• When filling out your application or going into the interview, be upfront about your past. Trying to hide it usually backfires.
• If your felony was years ago, highlight what you’ve done since then to improve yourself—whether it’s furthering your education, learning new skills, or volunteering.
• Even if you haven’t had formal employment since your release, consider adding any volunteer work, vocational training, or freelance work you’ve done. This shows that you’ve been proactive about bettering yourself.
• When you get to the interview stage, be prepared to talk about your past honestly, but also focus on your future. Practice talking about how your experiences have shaped you and made you a better candidate. Be positive and let them know you’re serious about turning things around.
• After submitting your application or going through an interview, follow up with a polite email or phone call. This shows initiative and interest, both of which can make a great impression on a potential employer.

FAQ

Conclusion

If you are an ex-felon looking to start a new life, Costco may be a great place to do it. I have already listed the benefits of the company for you and I think they are quite significant. Although there may be a bit more background checks for you given your criminal record, at least the company does not exclude hiring ex-convicts.

Also, programs like Section 8 Housing can provide you with the support you need, giving you the stability you need in housing while you focus on your job. If you have a story to share or have applied to Costco as an ex-felon, feel free to share it in the comments. Plus, you can support people who want to find a job but are afraid. And your story will give them a boost and open the way to a calm and comfortable life.