How do you post a job for free?
You can post a job for free on your own careers page, on your professional network, through your state's public job bank and American Job Center, and in community and school groups. Free options cost time instead of money, so write a complete posting with pay, location and how to apply.
US rules as of 31 October 2026.
At a glance
- Free reach comes from places you already control or public services: your site, your network, state workforce agencies and local groups.
- A strong posting matters more than the channel. See how to write a job description.
- Include a pay range where your state or city requires it. See pay transparency laws.
- Paid or free, never charge applicants to apply, and never ask for sensitive data in the posting.
Where can you post for free?
| Channel | Why it works | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Your careers page | You control the message and own the traffic | Needs visitors; link it from your site and email signature |
| Your own professional network | People trust referrals | Everyone sees the same few people |
| State workforce agency and American Job Centers | Public service for employers and job seekers | Check each agency's posting rules |
| Local schools, colleges, training programs and community groups | Direct access to entry-level talent | Each has its own process |
| Industry associations and forums | Targeted audiences | Read the group rules on promotion |
| Employee referrals | Warm candidates | Set a clear referral policy |
The US Department of Labor says American Job Centers help employers define job requirements, match applicants to roles and organize job fairs. Ask your nearest center how it lists employer openings.
What belongs in every posting?
- A plain job title that candidates search for.
- Location or remote eligibility.
- Pay range, where required or good practice.
- Duties and must-have requirements, kept to the real ones.
- How and where to apply, and what happens next.
- An equal opportunity statement.
- Accommodation contact for applicants with disabilities.
The EEOC prohibits job advertisements that discourage people because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetic information. Avoid phrases like "recent graduate" or "young and energetic".
What does a free posting cost you?
Your time: screening, scheduling and replying. To keep it manageable:
- Use screening questions to filter on must-haves, not on protected traits.
- Use one application link so you can count responses by source.
- Reply to every applicant, even with a short rejection.
Posting on LiveRec
Live job listings on LiveRec are part of an employer plan, with a set number of listings per plan, and are not free. If you want to compare, read how to post a job on LiveRec and job listing limits.
FAQ
Is a free posting as good as a paid one? It can be, if the role is clear and you promote it. Paid placement mainly buys reach.
Do I need an equal opportunity statement? It is good practice and common. Check your obligations with an employment attorney.
How do I spot a scam listing? Real employers never ask applicants to pay. See how to spot a job scam.
Sources
- EEOC, Prohibited Employment Policies/Practices - https://www.eeoc.gov/prohibited-employment-policies-practices (accessed 31 October 2026)
- US Department of Labor, American Job Centers - https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/american-job-centers (accessed 31 October 2026)
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.