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Prohibited Job Seeker Costs

This policy applies to all employers posting jobs on Indeed. Our goal is to provide job seekers with fair and trustworthy opportunities. Job posts that ask job seekers to pay fees, make investments, or take on financial risks are not allowed on our site. These jobs may be removed, hidden, or require sponsorship.

Types of jobs not allowed on Indeed

Roles requiring the job seeker to pay fees

  • Don't ask job seekers to pay a fee to apply, interview, or be hired.
  • Don't ask contractors to use a specific brand or model tool.

Examples of fees that aren't allowed:

  • Application or start-up fees
  • Background check fees
  • Training costs
  • Uniform or licensing costs

Exceptions

  • Equipment independent contractors must have
  • Chair or booth rentals in cosmetology

Business opportunities

  • Don't post jobs that promote starting a new business.
  • Don't ask job seekers to invest money up front with no guarantee of income or security.

Exceptions

  • Contractor or subcontractor roles

Multi-level marketing (MLM) or network marketing schemes

  • Only post real jobs, not MLM or networking marketing opportunities.
  • Don't ask job seekers to buy products, pay for memberships, or purchase marketing tools.

Examples of costs found in MLMs:

  • Starter kits
  • Membership fees
  • Required product purchases
  • Marketing materials
  • Training or convention fees

Training opportunities

  • Posts that advertise training courses or programs are not allowed.

Exceptions

Paid training may be allowed if all these apply:

  • Job seekers are paid during the entire training period.
  • The job description explains what happens after training.
  • After training, job seekers either:
    • Get a job offer, or
    • Pay no fees and receive a certificate, license, or skills to help them find work.

Truck driving jobs

  • Truck driving job posts must state the type of role in the description. Posts missing this detail may not show up as often.

Types of trucking roles

  • Owner-Operator: Job seeker owns the truck and covers equipment costs.
  • Company Driver: Employer provides the truck at no cost.
  • Lease Purchase: Job seeker leases the truck through the employer. Include costs and payment plans in the job post.

Relocation roles

  • Jobs requiring relocation must include details of any employer assistance with moving costs.
  • Employers may reimburse relocation costs after the move.
  • You may not list jobs outside of their true working locations.

Next steps

If we removed or hid your job post:

  • Review the guidelines above.
  • Remove fees, costs, or investment requirements.
  • Make sure your post describes a real job with clear details about pay, role type, and location.

Contact Indeed Support if you think we removed your post by mistake.

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Prohibited Job Seeker Costs