Are employers allowed to request personal information from job applicants?

In California, employers are allowed to request personal information from job applicants. However, this information must be relevant to the job and is limited to what is necessary to make an informed decision. Employers cannot ask for information unrelated to the position, such as marital status, religious affiliation, or social security numbers. Employers can ask questions related to experience, qualifications, and education. They may request information on past employment history, certifications, and training. They can also ask for references and contact information. Employers are not allowed to ask questions that could be used to discriminate against an applicant. This includes questions about race, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Employers are permitted to do a background check on applicants, provided they receive written consent from the applicant. This includes checking criminal records and credit reports. However, employers must ensure that a background check is job-related and is in compliance with applicable laws, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act. In general, employers are allowed to request personal information from job applicants during the hiring process, as long as it is relevant to the job, necessary to make an informed decision, and the questions do not discriminate against any protected categories.

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Are employers allowed to request personal information from job applicants?

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