The Kentucky Fair Chance Bond, part of the Federal Bonding Program was established by the U.S. Department of Labor to provide fidelity bonds that protect employers against employee fraud and dishonesty for “at-risk,” hard-to-place job seekers. These bonds are available through your Kentucky Career Center at no cost to Kentucky employers or job applicants.
The fidelity bond covers the first six months of employment and has no deductible, so there is no out-of-pocket expense for businesses that participate. Employers also can extend coverage for an additional six months at no cost if the worker demonstrates job honesty.
Please note, the bond does not cover liability due to poor workmanship, job injuries or work accidents, bail, contract or performance bonds, or license bonds for self-employment.
Individuals in the following categories are eligible for the program:
- individuals with criminal records;
- individuals in recovery from substance use disorders;
- public assistance recipients;
- individuals with poor credit records;
- economically disadvantaged youth and adults who lack stable work histories;
- individuals dishonorably discharged from the military; and
- anyone already employed who needs bonding to prevent termination or secure a transfer or promotion.
In Kentucky, the Fair Chance Bond may be issued as soon as the applicant has begun working. Workers must be paid wages with federal taxes automatically deducted from pay. Part-time and temporary workers are eligible for the program but not self-employed persons.
With less than a 1% default rate, the bond can provide peace of mind to any employer, employee or position including working with temporary staffing agencies.
To apply for the Kentucky Fair Chance Bond, contact workforce@ky.gov.
For more information, please visit bonds4jobs.com