Finding a job for an ex-felon in Indiana is a difficult task because most companies will immediately reject a person’s application upon seeing his criminal record. On top of that, many employers who are willing to accept a person who had been convicted of a felony only provide a minimum wage salary.
The Indiana Department of Labor has a program to assist persons with criminal histories. First of all, unemployment compensation is given to individuals who cannot find a job even if they are willing and able to work. To submit an initial claim, you have to register for work at one of the Indiana Workforce Development offices. Secondly, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit is given to employers who are willing to hire ex-felons, among other groups. Lastly, the Federal Bonding Program offers fidelity bonding insurance for those who cannot take advantage of regular commercial bonding.
If the felony is several years old, you may try to clean up your record at the Indiana State Police Central Repository. You can ask for a copy of your criminal record and learn the procedure for cleaning or sealing your record.
An ex-felon can also ask for job placement assistance from the Community Action Program (CAP), which helps individuals with criminal records by identifying companies that are willing to accept them. Meanwhile, the Next Step Programs of the Fletcher Place Ministry also offers job placement assistance after completion of a series of seminars. There are also community agencies that offer information on organizations and government agencies that help with vocational training and employment.
