When a perspective company is calling to verify your previous work history, what are they allowed to ask? Also, do they typically ask if you were “permanent” or “contract”?

likesmart
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They can ask whatever they want, but companies typically provide answers to 1) Did you work there, 2) when, and 3) if you’re eligible for rehire.

All of those are factual answers. Anything opinion based (e.g. good or bad worker) could lead to a lawsuit if you didn’t get the job because of it.

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Thank you!!

Employers typically ask previous employers to verify objective facts such as job titles, dates of employment, salary history (where legal), and eligibility for rehire. They may also inquire about job duties, performance, strengths, weaknesses, and reasons for leaving. Many companies limit responses to facts to avoid liability.

Commonly allowed questions for former employers include:
Verification: Dates of employment and official job title.
Performance: A description of job duties, work quality, and key strengths or areas for improvement.
Logistics: Reason for leaving and whether the candidate is eligible for rehire.
Behavioral: Attendance reliability and ability to work with others.

What Cannot Be Asked/Shared:
Protected Information: Questions regarding race, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, or medical history are prohibited.
Salary Info: Some states and cities prohibit asking about salary history, notes.
Defamation: Former employers cannot intentionally share false or malicious information.

While employers can ask many questions, former employers are not legally obligated to answer, and many company policies restrict responses to verifying only dates and titles to avoid potential legal issues.

Thank you!! Very appreciative of this answer!

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