I cannot seem to get hired, and my situation is quickly approaching personal crisis territory.

I will try to keep everything as concise as possible, just bear with me.

I am a single father with full custody of a 5 year old. While I was working my most recent job, I was engaged in custody proceedings with my son's mother, and things were just really, really tough, financially. There came a month where I had to choose between keeping my car (and thus keeping my job), or keeping insurance coverage, but being unable to pay my car payment for the 3rd month in a row. So, I made my choice, and then proceeded to get into an at-fault accident that very same month, for which I did not have insurance coverage. The other vehicle was valued at $16,000. This is when I found out what subrogation is. Their offer was- Pay us 25% of the total valuation, at which point we will set you up for payments to the tune of $550 a month, and do this within 30 days of this notice, or we will suspend your license indefinitely. This is literally not possible for me in any way. It wasn't then, and it certainly isn't now. So, my license has been suspended since then. My only real option to get my license reinstated is to file for bankruptcy. (My driving was totally spotless before this, by the way. Just fair warning, literally never drive without insurance.)

I was working towards paying the attorney so I could file for chapter 7, but then I lost my job. Since then, I have applied to over 50 jobs in various fields, and I absolutely can not get hired. Just for some context- I have about 2 years in the automotive industry, which is where my last position was, and the industry I was trying to pivot to after working in food service for about 8-9 years. The 1 and only job I refuse to ever do again is cooking on a line, because my mental health just can't handle it anymore. I've applied to several prep-cook/banquet-cook positions, and I haven't heard anything, presumably due in part to the 2 year gap between now and when I last worked in a kitchen. I didn't think that mattered in kitchens, as I've never had issues getting jobs in the past, but things just seem different now, as far as getting hired ANYWHERE. I've had a few job offers rescinded in the automotive industry once the background check returned a suspended license. That makes sense with positions for which you have to move vehicles, so I wasn't surprised that I was having trouble getting service advisor (what I was doing at my last job) or technician positions. Then, I was deemed ineligible by HR at a quick lube for a non-driving position.

I figured maybe it was just some corporate blanket policy where they just don't hire people that have ANYYTHING on their background check? I don't know, I just couldn't work out why that mattered. My background is otherwise completely clean. ALL that shows up is that I have a suspended license. I don't even think it tells them why. Fast-forward to today, where I just had a job offer rescinded for a housekeeping position, no driving even remotely related. The reason? Suspended driver's license. My state has a restricted license called a hardship license that allows people in my situation to drive back and forth to essential places, such as work, and I've had one of those for a while now. Even so, it seems like the suspended status on my license is barring me from positions in totally unrelated industries.

I've been unemployed for going on 6 months, now. My savings is depleted, my family was financially stretched thin even before the help they've given me. Something's got to give. This is causing me extreme hardship- I'm about to be homeless and without transportation as a single father. ANY advice- Industries that might still hire me, advice on anything I might be able to do legally to make this stop ruining my life, or even just "What I would do, is..." would be GREATLY appreciated. I'm at the point where I'm silently panicking and can barely think straight. Thank you for reading.

Jobadvisor

I am sorry to hear about the incredibly difficult situation you're facing. It sounds like you are under an immense amount of pressure, and your priority right now is finding stable employment and getting your life back on track for yourself and your son. Let's break down some potential strategies and advice.

First, it's important to understand why the suspended license is causing such widespread issues, even for non-driving positions.

• Risk Aversion for Employers: Many companies, especially larger ones, have very strict HR policies and background check criteria. A suspended license, regardless of the reason, can be flagged as a potential liability or an indicator of a past financial/legal issue, even if it's not directly related to the job duties. They might view it as a risk, however small, for insurance purposes, or simply as a red flag in a sea of other applicants.
• Misinterpretation: As you suspected, some HR departments might not delve into the specifics of why your license is suspended, or even if they do, they may not fully understand the nuances of a hardship license. They see "suspended" and it's an automatic disqualifier based on their internal policies.
• "Blanket Policies": You're likely correct that some companies have blanket policies where any significant flag on a background check, even if seemingly irrelevant, leads to disqualification. This is frustrating but unfortunately common in some corporate environments.

Here's what I would suggest, focusing on immediate action and long-term solutions:

Immediate Action & Job Search Strategies:

1. Transparency and Explanation (Carefully):

   • When to disclose: This is tricky. Ideally, you want to get an interview first. If you disclose on the application, you might be filtered out automatically. If you wait until the background check, the offer might be rescinded.
   • During the interview: If you get an interview, and the job does not require driving, consider bringing it up yourself if you feel it's likely to come up in a background check and you have a good rapport with the interviewer. You could say something like, "I want to be fully transparent regarding my background check. You'll see a suspended driver's license, which stems from a past financial issue related to a very challenging personal situation. I do have a hardship license that allows me to drive to essential places, but this position doesn't require driving, and I am fully able to meet the transportation requirements for this role." Frame it as a past challenge you've navigated and that it does not impact your ability to perform this specific job.
   • Focus on the hardship license: Emphasize that you do have a legal means to get to work.

2. Target Industries Less Concerned with Driving or Corporate HR:

   • Smaller Businesses: Small, independently owned businesses are often more flexible and willing to look at the individual rather than relying solely on rigid HR policies. They might be more understanding if you explain your situation honestly and demonstrate your strong work ethic. Look for places where you can speak directly with the owner or manager.
   • Gig Economy (Non-Driving): While many gig jobs require driving, there are some that do not:
     • Freelance/Remote Work (if you have skills): Look into data entry, transcription, virtual assistant roles, content writing, graphic design, or online tutoring if you have any skills in these areas. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or specific remote job boards.
     • Task-based Apps (non-driving): Apps like TaskRabbit (for handyman services, cleaning, moving, etc. if you can get there via public transport or hardship license), or even local odd jobs posted online.
   • Warehousing/Manufacturing (Manual Labor): Many warehouse positions do not require driving once you are on site. Look for roles like order picker, packer, assembler. The key here is getting past the HR hurdle. Again, smaller operations might be more accommodating.
   • Overnight/Graveyard Shifts: Sometimes these shifts are harder to fill and employers might be more lenient with background checks, especially for positions that don't involve customer interaction or driving.
   • Cleaning Services (Non-Driving Teams): If you can get to a central meeting point, some cleaning companies might have teams that travel together, or have routes accessible by public transport/hardship license.
   • Event Staffing: Look for positions at venues (stadiums, concert halls, convention centers) for roles like ushers, concession stand workers, or setup/teardown crew. These are often temporary or part-time but can provide income.
   • Security Guard (Non-Driving Posts): Some security positions are static, requiring no driving. You would need to ensure you meet other licensing requirements.
   • Non-Profit Organizations: Sometimes non-profits are more mission-driven and might be more understanding of challenging personal circumstances, especially if you can demonstrate reliability and dedication.

3. Network and Leverage Your Hardship License:

   • Contact Former Coworkers/Managers: Reach out to people you worked with previously (especially in food service where you had success) and explain your situation briefly. Ask if they know of any openings or can put in a good word for you. A personal recommendation can bypass many HR filters.
   • Local Community Resources:
     • Workforce Development Boards: These government-funded organizations offer job search assistance, resume help, interview coaching, and sometimes even connect you with employers who are more open to hiring individuals with specific challenges.
     • Local Charities/Churches: They often have networks and resources to help people in crisis, including job leads or connections to employers willing to give someone a chance.
     • Food Banks/Homeless Shelters: While it's a difficult thought, if you are nearing homelessness, these organizations often have services for job placement and can connect you to resources specifically designed for people in your situation.

4. Revisit "Prep-Cook/Banquet-Cook" Strategy:

   • While you want to avoid line cooking, prep and banquet roles might be less stressful. The 2-year gap shouldn't be a huge issue for kitchens, but the suspended license might be.
   • Focus on smaller, independent restaurants or catering companies. They are more likely to make individual hiring decisions.
   • Consider walking in and speaking to the chef/owner directly. Explain your situation honestly (but concisely) and emphasize your experience and strong work ethic. A face-to-face conversation can be much more impactful than an online application.

Addressing the License Suspension & Bankruptcy:

This is the long-term solution that will open up significantly more opportunities.

1. Prioritize Bankruptcy:

   • You are absolutely right that filing for bankruptcy is your best path to getting your license reinstated. This will remove the subrogation claim, allowing you to resolve the suspended license issue.
   • Explore Legal Aid: Many areas have Legal Aid societies or pro bono services that can help individuals who cannot afford an attorney, especially for bankruptcy filings. This should be your absolute first phone call every single day until you get through to someone.
   • Payment Plans for Attorneys: Even if you can't get free legal aid, some bankruptcy attorneys offer very flexible payment plans. Explain your dire situation. You may be able to pay in installments even after the filing.
   • Community College/Law School Clinics: Some law schools have clinics where students, supervised by professors, provide legal assistance at low or no cost.
   • Don't wait for the full attorney fee: Talk to attorneys about options to get the process started even if you can't pay the full fee upfront. Sometimes a retainer is enough to begin.

2. Understand Chapter 7:

   • Chapter 7 bankruptcy is designed to discharge most unsecured debts, including the subrogation claim. This will typically allow you to get your license back once the bankruptcy is finalized and you've completed any necessary steps with the DMV.
   • The filing process itself provides an "automatic stay," which means creditors cannot take collection actions against you (like suspending your license) once your petition is filed. This might offer immediate relief.

3. Communication with the Subrogation Company/DMV:

   • Once you have an attorney: Have your attorney communicate with them.
   • Before an attorney (if necessary): If you absolutely cannot get an attorney yet, try to communicate with the subrogation company again. Explain your hardship and that you are pursuing bankruptcy. Ask if there's any temporary measure or deferment they can offer given your intent to file bankruptcy. They might not, but it's worth asking. This is a long shot, but sometimes they prefer any communication over none.

"What I Would Do, Is..."

If I were in your shoes, with a 5-year-old and facing this immediate crisis, here's my prioritized approach:

1. Morning 1 (and every morning until success):

   • Call Legal Aid Societies: Find every legal aid organization in your state/county that offers bankruptcy assistance. Call them repeatedly. Explain your situation, especially the suspended license impacting employment. Emphasize the potential for homelessness with your child.
   • Call Local Law School Clinics: Search for "bankruptcy clinic [your state/city] law school."
   • Call Bankruptcy Attorneys: Explain your financial distress and ask about flexible payment plans or pro bono options. Even a free consultation can give you crucial information.
   • Research "Chapter 7 bankruptcy requirements [your state]" to understand the basic process.

2. During the day (while making calls):

   • Mass Application Blitz (Targeted): Focus solely on positions where driving is explicitly not required and where you can either walk in or where a smaller business might be more lenient.
     • Prep Cook / Banquet Cook: Walk into independent restaurants, hotels (ask for the banquet manager), catering companies. Be ready to explain your situation in person (very briefly and professionally) if asked, focusing on your dedication and reliability.
     • Housekeeping: Apply to smaller hotels, motels, nursing homes, or even private cleaning services. Again, walk in if possible.
     • Warehousing/Manufacturing: Look for entry-level "general labor," "picker/packer," "assembly line" roles.
     • Overnight Stocker/Cleaner: Grocery stores, big box retailers often have overnight shifts that don't require customer interaction or driving during the shift.
   • Network: Text/call every former coworker, manager, or friend you trust and explain you are looking for any non-driving work. Emphasize your reliability and how quickly you can start.

3. Prepare Your "Story":

   • Craft a very concise and professional explanation for the suspended license that you can use if it comes up during an interview or when you're making a strong impression. It should be framed as a past, resolved financial hardship that does not impact your ability to perform the job at hand. Example: "During a challenging family situation, I experienced a financial setback that resulted in a temporary license suspension. I have a hardship license for essential travel, and this particular role doesn't require driving, so it won't impact my ability to be a dedicated and reliable employee."

4. Explore Temporary/Survival Options:

   • Plasma Donation: If you are healthy, this can provide some immediate cash.
   • Food Banks: Utilize them immediately to relieve financial pressure on food.
   • WIC/SNAP: Apply for government assistance programs for food (SNAP) and for your son (WIC, if eligible).
   • Utilities Assistance: Check with your local utility companies for assistance programs.
   • Housing Assistance: If you are nearing homelessness, contact your local social services agency now. They can connect you to emergency shelters or rapid rehousing programs.

This is an incredibly tough situation, and you are doing everything you can. Focus on the immediate goal of securing any income, while simultaneously pursuing the bankruptcy that will resolve the underlying issue. Don't give up. Your son needs you, and you will get through this.