Quick Answer

Yes, Dollar Tree does hire people with felonies in 2025. As one of America’s largest dollar store chains with over 16,000 locations (including Family Dollar stores), Dollar Tree evaluates applicants individually based on conviction type, time passed, and job requirements. Sales associate and stocker positions pay ($11–$14/ hour) and are among the most accessible.

Because each store manager has hiring discretion and stores experience constant turnover, applying to multiple locations greatly improves your chances of being hired. Dollar Tree’s nationwide presence and consistent need for dependable workers create strong opportunities for individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Dollar Tree

3. Hiring Policy

4. What They Consider

5. Available Jobs

6. Background Check

7. Application Tips

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

10. Final Thoughts

About Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree operates more than 16,000 discount retail stores across the U.S. under the Dollar Tree and Family Dollar brands. Dollar Tree sells everything for $1.25, while Family Dollar offers low-cost household goods at various price points. The company employs over 190,000 people in stores and distribution centers nationwide.

For people with criminal records, Dollar Tree provides excellent opportunity because of its:

1. Massive store network and frequent job openings.

2. High turnover typical of discount retail.

3. Small store teams, allowing local managers flexibility.

4. Commitment to fair-chance and diverse hiring.

5. Partnerships with workforce reentry programs.

These factors make Dollar Tree one of the more accessible major employers for applicants with felony convictions who can demonstrate reliability, teamwork, and customer service skills.

Hiring Policy

Dollar Tree does not automatically exclude applicants with felonies. The company conducts case-by-case evaluations focused on the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and job type.

What They Consider

• Type and age of conviction.

• Job duties (handling cash or customers).

• Demonstrated rehabilitation or stability.

• Store staffing needs and urgency.

• Manager’s discretion and comfort level.

Dollar Tree complies with all local “Ban the Box” and fair chance hiring laws, meaning your criminal history is usually considered only after a conditional offer.

Available Jobs

Sales Associate

($11–$14/ hour)

Provides customer service, operates registers, restocks merchandise, and maintains store appearance. Entry-level and very accessible for people with various backgrounds.

Stocker / Merchandiser

($11–$14/ hour)

Unloads trucks, stocks shelves, and organizes inventory. Physical work with less customer interaction — ideal for those reentering the workforce.

Cashier

($11–$13/ hour)

Handles transactions and provides checkout service. Some managers may prefer applicants without theft-related convictions, but honesty and time since offense are important factors.

Freight Associate

($11–$14/ hour)

Unloads shipments, processes inventory, and moves stock to the sales floor. Often early-morning or overnight work, which can be easier to obtain.

Assistant Store Manager

($14–$18/ hour)

Supervises employees, manages inventory, and supports the Store Manager. Frequently promoted from within.

Store Manager

($18–$24/ hour + bonuses)

Oversees store operations, staffing, and performance. Many store managers began as hourly workers.

Distribution Center Associate

($14–$18/ hour)

Works in warehouse settings receiving, sorting, and shipping merchandise. Generally more accessible for people with records due to limited customer contact.

Best Entry Point:Sales Associate and Stocker positions provide the most direct route to employment. Once hired, employees who perform well often move into management roles regardless of past convictions.

Background Check

• Conducted after a conditional offer.

• Typically looks back 7 years.

• Takes 5–10 business days.

• Drug testing policies vary by location.

• Complies with Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) rules.

Managers receive background check results but have the discretion to proceed with hiring if they believe in the applicant’s potential.

Application Tips

1. Apply online and in person – Submit applications at DollarTreeInfo.com/careers and visit stores to introduce yourself.

2. Apply broadly – Target 15–20 stores within commuting distance. Each manager hires independently.

3. Don’t disclose unless asked – In Ban-the-Box areas, only answer background questions if prompted.

4. Visit during quiet hours – Mornings or early afternoons give you time to speak directly with managers.

5. Be honest about your background – Prepare a short, responsible explanation emphasizing growth.

6. Highlight reliability – Stress your punctuality, transportation, and consistent attendance.

7. Stay flexible with shifts – Availability for nights, weekends, and holidays increases hiring chances.

8. Follow up regularly – Call or visit 2–3 days after applying to confirm interest.

9. Bring references – Community leaders or former supervisors help establish credibility.

10. Target smaller towns – Rural and suburban stores often have fewer applicants and are more flexible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my theft conviction prevent me from getting hired?

Not necessarily. Time since conviction and honesty matter most. Older offenses (5+ years) and a clean recent record often make hiring more likely.

Does Dollar Tree drug test?

Policies vary by store and state. Many locations require pre-employment testing, especially for management or distribution roles.

How long after my conviction should I wait to apply?

You can apply immediately, but your chances improve after 3–5 years of clean records.

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes. Many Dollar Tree employees are on supervised release. Just inform your manager about any scheduling restrictions.

Will violent felonies disqualify me?

No automatic disqualification. Each case is reviewed individually. Time since conviction and proof of rehabilitation matter most.

What if I have multiple felonies?

It depends on the circumstances. Be transparent and focus on the positive changes you’ve made. Persistence across multiple applications helps.

Can I get promoted with a felony?

Yes. Many managers at Dollar Tree began with records but advanced through reliable performance.

Are Family Dollar and Dollar Tree hiring policies the same?

Yes. Both are owned by Dollar Tree, Inc., and use similar hiring processes. Applying to both increases your chances.

What should I do if my background check is wrong?

Contact both Dollar Tree HR and the background screening company to dispute errors. Federal law gives you 5–10 business days to respond.

If one store rejects me, should I try others?

Absolutely. Each manager decides independently. Apply to 15–20 locations for the best results.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Dollar General – 19,000+ stores; accessible hiring for sales and stock positions.

• Family Dollar – Same parent company; similar second-chance approach.

• Five Below – Fast-growing discount chain open to diverse applicants.

• Big Lots – 1,400+ stores; hires for sales, stock, and overnight roles.

• 99 Cents Only Stores – Primarily in western states; regularly hires applicants with records.

Final Thoughts

Dollar Tree offers one of the most realistic employment opportunities for people with felony convictions. With 16,000+ stores, constant hiring needs, and local manager discretion, persistence and professionalism can pay off quickly.

Start by applying to 15–20 nearby stores through DollarTreeInfo.com/careers, visit locations in person, and present yourself confidently.

Many employees with past convictions have built steady careers here — your next opportunity could be one application away.