Navigating Walmart’s Background Check with a Misdemeanor Charge

If you received an offer from Walmart as a cashier but have a theft misdemeanor charge that occurred more than 10 years ago, you might wonder whether you can pass their background check. In this article, we will explore the steps you should take and what to expect.

Disclose the Information

The first and best advice is to disclose the information to Walmart up front. If the company discovers it accidentally and suspects you tried to conceal it, this could undermine your chances of getting hired. Honesty is always the best policy in such situations.

Company Policies and Procedures

While owning up to the past crime is crucial, it is equally important to understand the company's policies regarding background checks. Most companies, including Walmart, typically conduct background checks at the time of offer. If they do not have this information, they must learn about it to make an informed decision.

Walmart needs to know before you are hired, as discovering the information after the offer could lead to severe repercussions, such as rescinding the job offer. Therefore, speaking with someone in Human Resources at the Walmart that made you the job offer is a wise step. Ask them directly if they have conducted the background check and if not, inquire about the process and their stance on misdemeanor charges from over a decade ago.

State and Legal Considerations

Some states have laws prohibiting the use of criminal background checks that extend beyond seven years. However, since the offense occurred more than a decade ago, it is highly unlikely that federal or state laws will rescind the job offer based on this outdated misdemeanor. The key is to ensure Walmart is aware and makes a decision based on all available information.

Prevent Unnecessary Doubts

It is also worth considering whether you have already undergone a background check. Many employers perform thorough checks on prospective employees, so it's possible Walmart has already conducted a background check that revealed the misdemeanor charge. However, if they have not yet done so, it's in your best interest to inform them proactively.

Community Views and Personal Advice

Several community members have chimed in with their perspectives, offering advice and personal anecdotes. Some suggest that as long as you disclose the information truthfully, the lapse in time could work in your favor. Time can provide a semblance of rehabilitation and maturity.

One common piece of advice is to not spread the information far and wide. While it is important to be honest, over-sharing can sometimes result in unnecessary scrutiny or negative perceptions. You should focus on your honesty and let the process unfold. The worst that can happen is not getting the job, which is a risk you must take to maintain your professional integrity.

So take a deep breath, prepare yourself, and go ahead with the interview. Remember, refusing to try is often the most regrettable decision one can make.