Does Dollar Tree Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Dollar Tree's Hiring Policy for People with Records

Dollar Tree, Inc. is the parent company of both Dollar Tree and Family Dollar stores, operating approximately 16,000 combined locations across North America. The company employs over 200,000 people and has significant, ongoing hiring needs. Dollar Tree conducts background checks on all new hires through a third-party screening provider, but the company uses an individualized assessment process that considers the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since conviction, and the relevance to the position. Because Dollar Tree is a retail business, theft-related convictions (shoplifting, burglary, larceny, robbery, fraud) are scrutinized more closely than other types of offenses. However, non-theft felonies — including drug offenses, DUI, assault (for non-customer-facing roles), and other convictions — are often not disqualifying, especially when they are several years old. The company's practical need for workers in a high-turnover industry means many people with records are successfully hired.

Background Check Process at Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree's background check is conducted after a conditional offer of employment is extended. The standard check includes a criminal history search going back 7 years, a Social Security number trace, and a national sex offender registry check. For distribution center and driving positions, additional checks may include Motor Vehicle Records and DOT compliance screening. The background check is processed through a third-party provider and typically takes 3-7 business days. If the check reveals a criminal record that the company considers relevant to the position, you will receive a pre-adverse action notice per FCRA requirements. This gives you the opportunity to review the report, dispute any inaccuracies, and provide context or documentation about your rehabilitation. Dollar Tree complies with all state and local ban-the-box laws.

What Could Disqualify You at Dollar Tree

The most common disqualifiers at Dollar Tree include recent theft or fraud convictions (within 5-7 years) for positions involving cash handling or merchandise access, sex offenses (typically disqualifying for all positions), violent felonies within the past 7 years for customer-facing roles, and active warrants or pending charges. Drug-related felonies, particularly older possession charges, are generally less of a barrier for store associate and stocking roles. Convictions older than 7 years are given significantly less weight, and in many states, employers are legally prohibited from considering them. Dollar Tree's loss prevention priorities mean that theft-related offenses receive the most attention in the screening process. If your felony is unrelated to theft or violence, your chances of being hired are considerably higher.

Dollar Tree vs. Family Dollar — Same Parent, Similar Policies

Dollar Tree acquired Family Dollar in 2015, and both brands now operate under the same parent company. Hiring policies are generally similar across both brands, though some differences may exist at the store level. Family Dollar locations tend to be in more urban and lower-income areas, while Dollar Tree stores are more evenly distributed. Both brands face similar turnover challenges and hiring needs. If you are turned down at a Dollar Tree location, it is worth applying at Family Dollar locations in your area as well (and vice versa), since store managers may make somewhat different decisions even under the same corporate policy umbrella. The combined company's massive footprint — over 16,000 locations — means there are usually multiple options within a reasonable distance.

Tips for Getting Hired at Dollar Tree with a Record

Apply online through the Dollar Tree careers website or visit your local store and ask about openings. Dollar Tree stores have lean staffing models, so they are frequently looking for help. When applying, target stocker and merchandise associate positions if you have theft-related convictions, as these roles may be viewed as lower risk than cashier positions. For non-theft convictions, cashier and sales associate positions are also accessible. Be prepared to work flexible hours — Dollar Tree values open availability including evenings and weekends. During seasonal hiring periods (back-to-school in August-September and holidays in October-December), Dollar Tree hires in large volumes and may be more receptive. If hired, focus on building a record of reliability. Dollar Tree promotes from within, and associate positions can lead to assistant manager and store manager roles over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dollar Tree hire felons?

Dollar Tree hires people with felony records on a case-by-case basis. They conduct background checks but use individualized assessments. Theft-related convictions are scrutinized more closely in retail, but non-theft felonies and older convictions are generally less of a barrier. Many people with records work at Dollar Tree stores and distribution centers.

Does Dollar Tree do background checks?

Yes. Dollar Tree conducts background checks on all new hires through a third-party screening provider. The check includes a 7-year criminal history search, Social Security trace, and sex offender registry check. The check is conducted after a conditional offer of employment.

How far back does Dollar Tree's background check go?

Dollar Tree's standard background check covers 7 years of criminal history. In states with lookback restrictions (like California), the 7-year limit is legally mandated. Convictions older than 7 years carry significantly less weight in hiring decisions.

Does Dollar Tree drug test?

Dollar Tree's drug testing policy varies by position and location. Not all store associate positions require pre-employment drug testing. Distribution center and driving positions are more likely to require drug screening. Post-accident testing may apply to all employees.

Can I be a cashier at Dollar Tree with a felony?

It depends on the nature of your felony. Non-theft felonies that are several years old are generally not a barrier to cashier positions. Recent theft, fraud, or robbery convictions are more likely to be an issue since cashiers handle money. Starting as a stocker and moving to cashier is an option.

Does Dollar Tree own Family Dollar?

Yes. Dollar Tree, Inc. acquired Family Dollar in 2015. Both brands operate under the same parent company with generally similar hiring policies. If you are turned down at one brand, it is worth trying the other.

Can I work at a Dollar Tree distribution center with a felony?

Yes. Dollar Tree distribution center positions are generally accessible to people with felony records. Warehouse associate roles involve physical work with minimal customer interaction. Theft convictions may receive some scrutiny, but distribution center hiring tends to be more flexible than retail store hiring.

What is the easiest position to get at Dollar Tree with a record?

Stocker and merchandise associate positions are typically the easiest to obtain with a criminal record. These roles involve stocking shelves and organizing merchandise with less cash handling and customer interaction than cashier positions. Seasonal positions during peak hiring periods are also relatively easier to get.