Everything You Need to Know About the Certificate of Employability

If you are having difficulty finding employment due to previous criminal convictions, but you do not want to apply for a full pardon, you might consider applying for a certificate of employability. This is a good option if you meet the requirements for this certificate and need help finding work in the State of Connecticut. Even though for some jobs you will not have to divulge a criminal history on a job application, this is not always the case. A certificate of employability can therefore help. You can learn more about the certificate of employability application on this page.

Certificate of Employability Eligibility

You are eligible for the certificate of employability if you:

• Are currently a resident of the State of Connecticut.
• Got convicted of a crime.
• Are no longer incarcerated for a crime.
• Have completed your sentence and probation, and have been in the community for at least 90 days.
• Have completed at least 90 days under the supervision of the Department of Correction’s Parole and Community Services Division if you are currently under supervision.

Certificate of Employability Application

If interested in applying for a certificate of employability, you can access the application form online. You must fill out this form for consideration for this certificate. The form can get filled out online, but if you cannot do this, you can print the form, write in your answers, and mail in the form. The application consists of:

• The application form with page five notarized by a public notary.
• A copy of your state I.D. or driver’s license.
• Documents that you want to attach to the application for review, such as your resume, diplomas, certificates, etc.
• The supervising officer questionnaire.

These documents should be submitted in this order and sent to:
Board of Pardons and Paroles
ATTN: Pardons Unit
55 West Main Street, Suite 520
Waterbury, CT 06702

The Board of Pardons and Paroles expects you to answer each question on your application openly and honestly. The Board will conduct a background check on every applicant, so if you try to lie on the application, they will find out and this will reflect poorly on your application. In fact, lying on the application is grounds for denial by the Board of Pardons and Paroles. It is therefore in your best interest to answer all questions to the best of your ability.

It is important to remember that a certificate of employability will not erase your criminal history. Rather, it will make it possible for you to get a job despite your criminal history. On another page on this website, I explain how to fill out the certificate of employability application. In the meantime, if you have any questions, you should contact my office. I am happy to discuss your certificate of employability application during a free consultation.