What is Ban the Box (Fair Chance Hiring)?
Ban the box laws, also called fair chance hiring laws, limit when an employer in a state or city may ask about a job applicant's criminal history, often delaying the question until after an interview or a conditional offer. They vary by place, so employers must follow the rules where they hire. Federal EEOC guidance also covers use of records.
Example
An employer removes the conviction question from its application form and asks only after a conditional offer, as the local law requires. If the history affects the decision, FCRA adverse action steps may also apply.
Related
See adverse action, FCRA and background checks.
Related terms and guides
Sources
- U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Prohibited employment policies and practices, https://www.eeoc.gov/prohibited-employment-policiespractices, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.