Job Training and Benefits for Returning Citizens: What Second Chance Month Means for You
If you or someone you love is returning from incarceration, Second Chance Month — recognized every April by the federal government — is a useful moment to learn about job training and assistance programs that may be available to people with criminal records. Reentry programs funded through the Department of Justice, Department of Labor, and state agencies may help returning citizens find employment, access housing, and connect with public benefits — though eligibility rules vary widely depending on your state, offense history, and household situation.
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Data Snapshot
According to the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 600,000 people are released from state and federal prisons each year. The Department of Labor's Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program — formerly known as the Reentry and Reintegration grants — has funded services for tens of thousands of justice-involved individuals annually. The Second Chance Act, first signed into law in 2008 and reauthorized through the First Step Act of 2018, has provided over $400 million in grants to support reentry programs across the country, according to the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) at bja.ojp.gov. These funds support transitional housing, substance use treatment, job training, and mentoring services at the state and local level.
Source: Bureau of Justice Assistance — https://bja.ojp.gov/program/second-chance-act/overview
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What Is Second Chance Month?
Second Chance Month was established by presidential proclamation and is recognized each April. The Bureau of Prisons (BOP), Department of Labor, and dozens of nonprofit and community partners use this period to raise awareness about reentry resources and reduce barriers that returning citizens face when trying to rebuild their lives.
The core message: people who have served their time deserve a real opportunity to reintegrate — and there are federal and state programs designed specifically to help make that possible.
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Federal Job Training Programs That May Be Available to Returning Citizens
American Job Centers (AJCs)
American Job Centers, funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), are one of the most accessible starting points for returning citizens seeking employment help. Services that may be available include:
- Career counseling and job placement assistance
- Skills assessments and occupational training referrals
- Resume writing and interview preparation
- Connections to local employers actively hiring people with records
To find the nearest American Job Center, visit careeronestop.org or call 1-877-872-5627. There is no cost to use these services.
Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) Program
The Department of Labor's REO program funds local organizations that provide job training, paid work experience, and employment placement specifically for justice-involved youth and adults. Grantees operate in communities across the country, though availability depends on your location. Ask your local American Job Center or reentry coordinator whether an REO-funded provider operates in your area.
Second Chance Act Grantees
Organizations funded through the Second Chance Act may offer transitional housing, substance use treatment, mentoring, and workforce development services. These programs are administered locally, so services vary by city and county. The BJA maintains a directory of grantees at bja.ojp.gov.
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Two Underused Employment Tools: Federal Bonding and WOTC
The Federal Bonding Program
Many employers hesitate to hire people with criminal records due to liability concerns. The Federal Bonding Program, administered through the Department of Labor, provides free fidelity bonds to employers who hire returning citizens and other at-risk job seekers. This may make it easier for you to get a foot in the door with employers who might otherwise pass.
Bonds are typically issued in amounts from $5,000 to $25,000 and cover the first six months of employment. Ask your American Job Center about connecting you with this program.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal tax incentive available to employers who hire workers from certain target groups — including people who were recently released from prison. Employers can claim a tax credit of up to $2,400 for hiring a qualified ex-felon within a year of their conviction or release date.
While this is an employer-side benefit, knowing about it can help you advocate for yourself during a job search. You can mention to potential employers that hiring you may make them eligible for WOTC. More information is available through the IRS and your state workforce agency.
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Public Benefits After Incarceration: What You May Be Able to Access
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from all public benefits — but the rules are complicated and vary significantly by state and offense type.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Federal law originally banned people with drug felony convictions from receiving SNAP benefits for life. However, most states have modified or eliminated this ban. As of recent years, the majority of states allow people with drug felony convictions to receive SNAP, though some states still impose restrictions or require compliance with supervision conditions.
- What to do: Contact your state SNAP agency or visit benefits.gov to check your state's current rules.
- Income limits: SNAP eligibility is generally set at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for gross income, though net income and household size also factor in.
- Required documents typically include: Photo ID, proof of address, Social Security number, and documentation of income (or lack thereof).
Medicaid
People who are incarcerated are not eligible for Medicaid while in prison or jail. However, upon release, you may qualify for Medicaid if your income falls at or below 138% of FPL (in states that have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act). Enrollment can often begin before release through pre-release planning programs at some facilities.
Housing Assistance (HUD Programs and Section 8)
This is one of the most challenging areas for returning citizens. Public housing authorities (PHAs) have broad discretion to deny housing based on criminal history, and federal law requires denial for certain offenses (including lifetime sex offender registration and methamphetamine production on federally assisted housing). However:
- HUD has issued guidance encouraging PHAs to conduct individualized assessments rather than blanket bans.
- Some cities and counties have adopted "fair chance housing" ordinances that limit how criminal history can be used in housing decisions.
- Transitional and supportive housing programs funded through Second Chance Act grantees may be available as a bridge.
Contact your local PHA or a HUD-approved housing counselor to understand what may be available in your area.
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Step-by-Step: How to Start Accessing Reentry Resources
Step 1: Connect with a reentry coordinator. If you are still incarcerated or recently released, ask your case manager or parole/probation officer about reentry planning resources. Many facilities have pre-release programs.
Step 2: Visit your nearest American Job Center. Bring your ID, Social Security card, and any documentation of your release. Staff can connect you with job training, employment services, and referrals to community programs.
Step 3: Apply for SNAP and Medicaid. Visit benefits.gov to find your state's application portals. Many states allow online applications. Applying as soon as possible after release is important — processing can take 30 days for SNAP (though expedited processing in 7 days may be available if your income is very low).
Step 4: Contact your local PHA about housing. Ask specifically about any reentry or transitional housing programs. If you are placed on a waitlist, get documentation of your application date.
Step 5: Look for Second Chance Act-funded programs in your area. Search the BJA grantee directory or ask your American Job Center for referrals to local reentry organizations offering wraparound services.
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Documents You'll Likely Need
- Government-issued photo ID (state ID or driver's license)
- Social Security card or proof of Social Security number
- Release paperwork or supervision documentation
- Proof of address (even a shelter letter may be accepted)
- Proof of income or a statement of no income
- Birth certificate (for some programs)
If you are missing documents, many reentry organizations can help you obtain them. Some states offer free IDs to people recently released from incarceration.
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People Also Ask
Can people with felony convictions get SNAP benefits? In most states, yes — the majority of states have modified or eliminated the federal lifetime ban on SNAP for people with drug felony convictions. Rules vary by state and offense type. Check your state's SNAP agency or visit benefits.gov to learn what may apply to your situation.
What is the Federal Bonding Program and how does it help returning citizens? The Federal Bonding Program provides free fidelity bonds to employers who hire returning citizens and other at-risk workers. Bonds typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 and cover the first six months of employment, reducing employer risk and potentially making it easier for you to get hired. Contact your American Job Center to access this program.
Can I get Medicaid right after being released from prison? You may qualify for Medicaid upon release if your income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level and you live in a Medicaid expansion state. Some facilities offer pre-release enrollment assistance. Apply as soon as possible after release through your state Medicaid agency or benefits.gov.
What is the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) and how does it affect my job search? WOTC is a federal tax credit available to employers who hire people from certain groups, including ex-felons released within the past year. Employers can receive up to $2,400 per qualifying hire. Knowing about WOTC may help you present yourself as a financially advantageous hire to potential employers.
Where can I find Second Chance Act-funded programs near me? The Bureau of Justice Assistance maintains information on Second Chance Act grantees at bja.ojp.gov. You can also ask at your nearest American Job Center or contact your local reentry organization for referrals to programs in your community.
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Program eligibility and availability vary by state. Not affiliated with any government agency.
Last reviewed: September 2026