Employment Application


What questions are prohibited from being asked on an employment application, and why?

  • Age/date of birth: Generally, age is considered not to be relevant in most hiring decisions, and therefore, date-of-birth questions are improper. Age is a sensitive pre-employment question, because the Age Discrimination in Employment Act protects employees 40 years old and above from discrimination based upon age. It is permissible to ask an applicant to state his or her age if it is less than 18. If you need the date of birth for internal reasons, this information can be obtained after the person is hired.

  • Race, religion, national origin: Generally, questions should not be asked about these matters, either on employment applications or during job interviews. The requirements that an applicant furnish a picture has been held to help support a claim for race discrimination when it was demonstrated that an employer never hired a minority applicant, the theory being the picture was required so that an employer would remember which applicants were members of minorities.  A sexual harassment plaintiff might similarly argue that the employer pre-screened applicants for physical attractiveness.

  • Physical traits, disabilities: Height and weight requirements have been found to violate the law in situations where such requirements have eliminated disproportionate numbers of female, Asian-American, and Spanish-surnamed applicants when in such cases, the employer could not show that the physical standards were directly-related to job performance.  The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits general inquiries about disabilities, health problems, and medical conditions.

  • Education: If a job for which an application is being made does not require a particular level of education, it is improper to ask questions about an applicant's educational background. Applicants can be asked about educational background, schools attended, degrees earned, and vocational training when the performance of a job requires a particular level of education.

  • Arrest, conviction records: The EEOC takes the position that questions concerning arrests are improper unless the applicant is being considered for a "security sensitive" job and the employer does an investigation to determine, in effect, whether the applicant was likely to have committed the crime for which he or she was arrested. The EEOC also says that questions about an applicant's conviction record are improper unless the employer can show that the conviction is in some way related to the position being applied for.

  •  Garnishment: Questions concerning whether an applicant has been the subject of garnishment proceedings should be eliminated from employment applications. Using the garnishment history of an applicant in determining whether he or she will be hired is probably discriminatory, because more minority members have their wages garnished than do with whites.

  • Citizenship: The anti-discrimination provision of the Immigration Reform and Control Act provides that an employer cannot discriminate because an applicant is not a U.S. citizen. Therefore, in order to avoid charges of discrimination under this Act, citizenship questions should probably be deleted from employment applications. 

Top Questions about Employment Application

  • How do I fill out a PDF job application?

    Filling out a PDF job application is user-friendly. First, download the PDF file and open it using a PDF reader. You can type directly into the fields or print the application to fill it out by hand. Ensure all required sections are completed for your employment application to be considered.

  • Do employers still use paper applications?

    While many employers have moved to online systems, paper applications still have their place in the job market. Some organizations find that a simple employment application form on paper helps them reach certain demographics. US Legal Forms offers comprehensive employment application templates that cater to both digital and print formats.

  • How to make an employment application?

    Creating an employment application is straightforward with online resources. Begin by deciding the necessary information to gather, such as personal details, work history, and references. Platforms like US Legal Forms offer templates that allow you to customize your employment application with ease.

  • How to get applicants to apply for a job?

    To attract applicants to apply for a job, ensure your job listing is clear and appealing. Highlight key benefits of the position and company culture, and provide an accessible employment application process. Utilizing tools like US Legal Forms can streamline your application process, making it simple for candidates to apply.

  • Can you print a job application?

    Yes, we can assist you in printing a job application from our extensive database. Simply choose your desired employment application, download it, and print it at your convenience. This feature is especially helpful for individuals who prefer hard copies for job submissions.

  • Can I print out a job application?

    Yes, you can print out a job application easily. Many online platforms, including US Legal Forms, provide downloadable PDF formats of employment applications. This allows you to print them directly from your device, fill them out by hand, and submit them in person if needed.

  • How do you fill out a job application correctly?

    To fill out a job application correctly, start by reviewing the instructions provided. Provide accurate information, especially regarding your work experience and education, as this builds your credibility. Leverage tools on our platform to guide you through the process; completing your Employment Application accurately can significantly improve your chances of landing the job.

  • What is a good opening sentence for a job application?

    A strong opening sentence for a job application should convey your enthusiasm and intent clearly. For instance, you might say, 'I am excited to apply for the Job Title position at Company Name, where I can utilize my skills in Relevant Skills.' This engaging introduction sets a positive tone for your entire Employment Application.

  • How do I fill out an employee application?

    Filling out an employee application involves gathering relevant information about your work history and qualifications. Start by reading each section carefully, as the structure may vary by organization. Utilize our platform to effortlessly navigate your Employment Application, ensuring every required field is filled accurately.

  • What are four things that cannot be asked on a job application?

    Certain personal information is not permissible on a job application. Employers cannot inquire about your race, religion, sexual orientation, or age. This protects your privacy and promotes fair hiring practices. Always feel empowered to refuse to answer such inappropriate questions on your Employment Application.