Does Instacart Hire Felons in 2021?

Sometimes getting restarted on your career takes nontraditional methods. Meal delivery programs might be just the thing for you, but does Instacart hire felons or should you try another company?

Questions like this are why Successful Release contacts companies directly to ask them about their hiring policies for former felons. We do this in hopes of making the job search easier for you and other ex-offenders.

And we’re not just saying that. Everyone knows ex-felons have a hard time finding a job, but we understand exactly what you’re up against. How’s that? Well, most of us at Successful Release have a criminal record too. Since we’ve been in your shoes, who better to help?

In this article, we’ll be answering some important questions that will help you know how to get a job at Instacart with a felony. A few examples include:

• Does Instacart do background checks?
• Will my felony prevent me from being hired here?
• Does Instacart hire people with misdemeanors?
• What are the odds someone with a felony will be hired?
• Does Instacart drug test?

Does Instacart hire felons?

Official company policy for hiring felons

We reached out to Instacart as promised, but unfortunately we were unable to make contact. Since we have to wait for a response, we did some research of our own.

Instacart doesn’t have anything on their website about their hiring policies for felons. But we did see that they are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and this is always great to hear.

Has Instacart hired felons in the past?

We aren’t sure. However, there’s a possibility they’ve hired felons in the past. Our online sources showed us that Instacart promises to consider anyone with a criminal history, depending on the type of job. Individuals applying in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Philadelphia will be considered with the requirements of applicable Fair Chance ordinances since the company adheres to them.

Let’s continue reading to see what we ran across on how to get hired at Instacart with a felony.

Does Instacart hire people with misdemeanors?

This is a question that is still up in the air. Until we hear from Instacart, we can’t say one way or the other. However, we do recommend staying positive and applying anyway.

Is Instacart on the Ban the Box list?

Let’s face it . . . having a criminal record is more common nowadays than it used to be. That means more people are also learning about the difficulties of reintegration — such as getting a job.

The Ban the Box campaign recognized this hardship and set out to assist those with a record. Ban the Box tries to convince employers to remove questions about criminal histories from their applications. This makes the employer blind to the criminal record so they can focus on the applicant’s experience and skills.

The Fair Chance Business Pledge is another way for employers to agree and commit to fair hiring practices for everyone, including former felons.

It’s unfortunate that Instacart doesn’t support either of these initiatives. However, supporting these campaigns isn’t required to hire a former felon.

Does Instacart have special programs for hiring felons?

Instacart doesn’t have any special programs for hiring former offenders.

What are the odds someone with a felony will get hired?

Does Instacart hire felons? We’re not sure, so the odds of being hired here are uncertain until we hear back from Instacart. Sources say it’ll depend on your criminal record, so you will have a better shot if you match your record to the job requirements and show them why you’re the best fit.

What are some entry-level jobs?

Leaving no stone uncovered, we looked through their entry-level positions for you. Check them out here:

• Full Service Shopper — Shopping and delivering groceries with Instacart provides you with a flexible schedule and the chance to make tips. You must have consistent access to an automobile and a smart phone, as well as be at least 18.
• Care Agent — If shopping isn’t your thing, that’s okay. A care agent is the behind-the-scenes support for shoppers and customers. Customer service or call center experience is preferred. Must be able to work a flexible schedule, have attention to detail and learn quickly.

Give their career page a glance for other jobs available!

How to get hired at Instacart with a felony

In order to put you on the right track, we have included a few tips that will make applying here a bit easier.

Filling out the application can be a breeze, but make sure you’re taking time to include any previous jobs you held that provided you with experience for the job you’re applying for. Here’s what we mean by that: Remember the elderly lady down the street you used to run errands for? That’s experience that will be useful for the majority of the positions at Instacart.

It’s always in your best interest to include a resume when applying for a job — even if one isn’t requested. Since we know most people tend to overthink it, we put together a guide to help you with polishing your resume. Be sure to give it a look! You may find something to help make your resume stand out.

It’s very important that your appearance is neat and put together. They’ll be looking for someone who will represent their company in a positive way. We suggest covering your tattoos and removing any piercings until you know their policy on these things.

This is also the ideal time to provide any work related references. These are very useful to an employer. You could ask the same elderly neighbor you used to run errands for, or even your PO if that is appropriate. They vouch for your dependability, promptness and manners.

Does Instacart do background checks?

Yes, it was mentioned that Instacart will do a background check.

Here are some things to keep in mind regarding background checks: 

Did you know that some states that will see an offense only if it’s less than seven years old? Here are those states:

• California
• Colorado*
• Kansas*
• Maryland*
• Massachusetts
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Hampshire*
• New York*
• Texas*
• Washington*

(*certain pay or salary bracket positions require a screening.)

There are also states that will see only guilty convictions. Here are those states:

• Alaska
• California
• Hawaii
• Indiana (limited check)
• Kentucky
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• New York

Unfortunately, most states will still look at everything. Such as:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• DC
• Delaware
• Florida
• Idaho
• Indiana (extensive check)
• Iowa
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Nebraska
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Company ratings

In order to bring you all the information on Instacart, we have to include what employees say about working here. Turning our attention to glassdoor.com, we saw Instacart was rated with 3.2 out of 5 stars. Here are a few things that caught our attention:

You have the freedom to set your own schedule, working as little or much as you like. However, the downside is not all customers tip and gas isn’t included in your pay.

What felony convictions might have a hard time getting hired here?

Here are a few offenses we feel may be looked at with a fine tooth comb and create more barriers for you:

• Theft crimes will more than likely give you a hard time. At Instacart, jobs require handling money and merchandise, as well as visiting homes.
• Violent and sexual crimes may make working here difficult. Instacart is a company driven towards assisting the public and elderly, as well as being in close personal contact with people at times.
• Driving offenses might make them question your fit for any position where deliveries are needed.

Does Instacart drug test?

We didn’t uncover anything on this subject. Our recommendation . . . be prepared anyway.

Have you applied for a job or worked here? Share your experiences!

What you can tell us about how to get a job at Instacart with a felony? Have you or someone you know worked here? We appreciate any insight you may be able to provide!