Quick Answer

Yes, Five Below hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With more than 1,400 stores nationwide and a fun, youth-oriented atmosphere, Five Below offers accessible entry-level retail employment for individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Starting pay ranges ($12–$15/ hour) for store positions, with advancement opportunities to management roles earning ($21–$31/ hour equivalent). The company’s high growth rate and constant hiring needs create favorable conditions for applicants with criminal records.

About Five Below

Five Below, founded in 2002 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, operates over 1,400 stores across 42 states. The retailer sells trend-driven merchandise—tech gadgets, toys, beauty, snacks, décor, and seasonal items—primarily priced between $1 and $5.

Five Below’s stores are bright, energetic, and fast-paced, catering to teens and young adults. The company employs more than 30,000 people and continues to expand rapidly, opening more than 200 new stores each year.

For job seekers with felony convictions, this rapid growth creates constant demand for workers. The youthful culture also tends to focus more on enthusiasm and reliability rather than traditional retail experience, which can benefit individuals reentering the workforce.

Hiring Policy

Five Below evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis and does not automatically disqualify anyone with a felony record. Hiring decisions often depend on store-level management needs and individual store discretion.

What They Consider

• The nature of the conviction and its relevance to retail.

• Time elapsed since the offense.

• Behavioral progress and rehabilitation efforts.

• Staffing urgency, especially during store openings.

• Attitude and enthusiasm, which carry high value in a youth-focused brand.

Because of its rapid growth and constant expansion, Five Below frequently hires employees who demonstrate reliability and customer engagement skills, even if they have prior convictions.

Available Jobs

Sales Associate

($12–$15/ hour)

Handles customer service, operates the register, restocks merchandise, and maintains store appearance. Ideal for applicants who enjoy interacting with people and energetic environments.

Stock Associate

($12–$15/ hour)

Unloads deliveries, stocks shelves, and organizes inventory. This is the most accessible position for individuals seeking a role with less customer interaction.

Keyholder / Shift Leader

($14–$17/ hour)

Supervises shifts, opens or closes the store, and supports management. Often promoted internally from Sales Associate positions.

Assistant Store Manager

($17–$23/ hour equivalent)

Assists the Store Manager with training, scheduling, and daily operations. Typically requires at least 1 year of experience.

Store Manager

($21–$31/ hour equivalent)

Oversees all store functions, including sales goals, inventory, and staff management. Many managers are promoted from within.

Career Path: Sales Associate → Keyholder → Assistant Manager → Store Manager

Background Check

• Reviews the past 7 years of criminal history.

• Evaluated case-by-case depending on conviction type.

• Background checks usually take 5–7 business days.

• Drug testing may apply depending on store or state policy.

Five Below follows fair chance hiring practices, meaning background checks occur only after a conditional offer. Applicants have the right to review and dispute any inaccurate information.

Application Tips

1. Target new store openings – Apply early to stores preparing to open; mass hiring events often include more lenient screenings.

   
   

2. Show enthusiasm – Demonstrate positive energy and familiarity with Five Below’s fun, youthful culture.

   
   

3. Highlight teamwork – Managers value friendly, reliable workers who fit the upbeat store atmosphere.

   
   

4. Apply to multiple stores – Submit applications to at least 5–10 locations in your area. Each store hires independently.

   
   

5. Mention retail interest – Phrases like “I love fast-paced, customer-focused work” help show alignment with the brand.

   
   

6. Be flexible – Evening, weekend, and holiday availability improves your hiring odds.

   
   

7. Focus on reliability – Emphasize consistent attendance and dependability, especially if you have limited recent experience.

   
   

8. Dress clean and upbeat – A casual but neat appearance matches Five Below’s culture.

   
   

9. Ask about seasonal work – Many seasonal hires are offered permanent roles later.

   
   

10. Follow up politely – Visit or call within a few days to show continued interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Five Below automatically reject me for having a felony?

No. The company evaluates each application individually and has a reputation for second-chance hiring.

What positions are easiest to get with a record?

Stock Associate and Sales Associate roles are most accessible, especially at new or high-turnover stores.

Does Five Below drug test?

Some stores do, depending on location and position. You’ll be informed if a test is required.

How long does the background check take?

Usually 5–7 business days after the conditional offer.

Can I apply while on probation or parole?

Yes. Many applicants have been hired while under supervision, as long as schedules allow compliance with any restrictions.

How soon after release can I apply?

You can apply immediately. Focus on showing reliability and enthusiasm for steady work.

Is Five Below easier to get into than Dollar General or Family Dollar?

Similar accessibility. However, Five Below’s rapid store growth often means more openings and faster hiring.

Can I advance to management with a felony?

Yes. Promotions are based on performance and reliability, not background. Many managers were internal promotions.

When does Five Below hire most?

Year-round due to expansion, with spikes before back-to-school (July–August) and holiday season (October–December).

What if one store rejects me?

Apply to others. Each store manager has independent hiring authority.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Dollar General – 19,000+ stores nationwide; consistent second-chance hiring.

• Family Dollar – Discount retailer offering steady entry-level hiring.

• Big Lots – Closeout and home goods stores with fair-chance hiring.

• Party City – Seasonal and permanent roles; flexible with background checks.

• Five Below Distribution Centers – Warehouse roles available for applicants seeking non-customer-facing work.

Final Thoughts

Five Below provides a strong opportunity for people with felony convictions to reenter the workforce through accessible retail jobs and growth potential. With rapid expansion, energetic stores, and fair-chance policies, the company values enthusiasm and reliability above background.

Start your application at FiveBelow.com/careers and look for new store openings in your area to maximize your chances of being hired.