Reentry programs for people with criminal records — including WIOA-funded job training, the Federal Bonding Program, and restored access to SNAP and Medicaid — may help you rebuild financial stability after incarceration. April is Second Chance Month, and courts, workforce agencies, and nonprofits across the country are drawing attention to the resources that exist for people navigating life after a conviction. But these programs don't disappear on May 1. Here's what's actually available, who may be eligible, and where to start.
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WIOA Job Training Grants: Your Starting Point
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is the primary federal law funding job training and employment services for adults facing barriers to work. People with criminal records are explicitly listed as a priority population under WIOA, which means American Job Centers — the local workforce offices funded by the U.S. Department of Labor — are required to serve you.
What WIOA May Cover
Through WIOA Title I Adult and Dislocated Worker programs, eligible individuals may receive:
- Individual Training Accounts (ITAs): Vouchers that cover tuition at approved training providers, including community colleges, trade schools, and certification programs. Benefit amounts vary by state and local workforce board.
- Supportive services: Funds for transportation, childcare, work clothing, and tools needed to complete training or start a job.
- Career counseling and job placement assistance: One-on-one coaching, resume help, and employer connections through your local American Job Center.
To access WIOA-funded training, you generally need to demonstrate financial need (income thresholds are typically set at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, though this varies by local workforce board) and show that training is necessary for employment. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you — in fact, it may strengthen your eligibility as a person with a documented barrier to employment.
Where to apply: Find your nearest American Job Center at careeronestop.org or call 1-877-872-5627.
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The Federal Bonding Program
One of the most underused reentry tools is the Federal Bonding Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. This program provides free fidelity bonds — essentially insurance policies — to employers who hire people with criminal records, gaps in employment, or other risk factors.
Here's why this matters for your job search: many employers hesitate to hire people with records because of liability concerns. A free bond removes that financial risk. Bonds are issued in amounts from $5,000 to $25,000 and cover the first six months of employment at no cost to you or the employer.
You don't apply for the bond yourself — your American Job Center counselor or a bonding coordinator in your state arranges it as part of your job placement process. Ask specifically about the Federal Bonding Program when you visit your local workforce office.
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Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax incentive for employers who hire workers from certain target groups — and people released from prison within the past year are explicitly included. Employers can claim a tax credit of up to $2,400 for hiring a qualified ex-felon.
This is an employer-side benefit, but it directly helps you because it gives businesses a financial reason to take a chance on your application. When you're job searching, it's worth mentioning WOTC eligibility to potential employers or to the HR department — many smaller businesses aren't aware they can claim it.
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SNAP, Medicaid, and Housing: Know Your State's Rules
Federal law under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996 created a lifetime ban on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for people convicted of drug felonies. However, states have the authority to opt out of or modify this ban — and the majority have done so.
SNAP Access After Incarceration
As of 2025, most states have fully or partially lifted the federal drug felony ban on SNAP. Some states still impose waiting periods or require treatment program participation. Your eligibility for SNAP also depends on household income (generally at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level for gross income) and other household factors.
To find out your state's specific rules, contact your state's SNAP agency or visit benefits.gov.
Medicaid
People leaving incarceration may be eligible for Medicaid if their income falls at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (in states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act). Many states now have pre-release Medicaid enrollment programs that allow people to apply before they leave a correctional facility, so coverage begins on release day. Ask your facility's case manager about pre-release enrollment.
Public Housing and Section 8
Federal law requires public housing authorities to deny admission to people convicted of certain crimes, including methamphetamine production on federally assisted housing premises and lifetime sex offender registration. Beyond those mandatory exclusions, housing authorities have discretion — and many have adopted second-chance housing policies. Private landlords participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program set their own screening criteria.
If you've been denied public housing, you have the right to an informal hearing. Contact a local legal aid organization for help with appeals.
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Reentry-Specific Workforce Programs
Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO)
The U.S. Department of Labor funds Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) grants to nonprofit organizations and workforce agencies that provide employment services specifically to people with criminal records. These programs often offer more intensive case management than standard American Job Centers. Search for REO-funded providers in your area through your state workforce agency.
Second Chance Pell Grants
The Second Chance Pell Experiment, now expanded under the Pell Grant Prison Education Program (effective July 2023), restored Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated individuals enrolled in approved prison education programs. If you're currently incarcerated, ask your facility's education coordinator whether your institution participates.
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What to Do If You're Denied Services or Benefits
Denials happen — and they're not always final. Here's a quick action plan:
- Request the denial in writing and ask for the specific reason.
- File an appeal within the stated deadline — usually 10 to 90 days depending on the program.
- Contact a legal aid organization in your area. Many provide free help with benefits appeals for low-income individuals. Find one at lawhelp.org.
- Ask your American Job Center counselor to advocate on your behalf for workforce program access.
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Program eligibility and availability vary by state. Not affiliated with any government agency.
Last reviewed: May 2026