Although many people take for granted something as simple as filling out their address or email on a job application, the reality is that many people don't have stable housing with a consistent address, multiple forms of state-issued identification, or the regular internet access needed to create and check email.

This page offers some suggestions on how to tackle the fundamentals of applying for a job when your circumstances don't align with the standard requirements posed by many employers.  Read on for ideas on how to handle various roadblocks that might create challenges for your job search.

Challenge # 1: I don't have a stable mailing address

One of the components of any job application guaranteed to show up every time is a request for contact information, including your address.  Even if you don't have a stable mailing address, there are some tricks for what to fill out instead. 

This can be a good option if you plan to reside in a community for a while but don't anticipate otherwise having a longterm mailing address.  However, it does require two forms of identification--something like a driver's license or passport, along with a secondary form of ID like a vehicle registration card. There is also a monthly fee for renting a PO Box, although its less than $5 a month.

If you decide to go this route, follow these steps to apply for a PO Box at your local Post Office:

Frequently used as a temporary mailing address, general delivery is a great alternative to a PO Box that is completely free, involves no application, and requires only a single form of photo ID.  Essentially, instead of listing a typical residential mailing address, you can have mail sent to you at General Delivery, which will then be held at the main Post Office for 30 days.

When filling out your job application, simply put "General Delivery" instead of your street address, include your city and state like you normally would, and add -9999 to the end of the local zip code.

Example
Jane Doe
General Delivery
Billings, MT 59101-9999

In Billings, all general delivery mail goes to the main Post Office at 841 S. 26th St., so be sure to use 59101-9999 as the zipcode if you live locally and choose this option.  

For more information, visit the USPS's site on General Delivery.

Perhaps the simplest option, if you have a trusted friend or family member who lives locally, ask if you can use their address on your application materials.

Challenge # 2: I don't have internet access (or an email address)

For people who don't have ready access to the internet or a device to access it, this can present a signifcant barrier to finding employment. Most communities have some options to help, though, so don't get discouraged!

The easiest solution to this problem often rests in your local library. 

Use free wifi at your local library

If you have your own device like a smart phone, you can readily gain free internet access at many venues, including public libraries which often have strong broadband connections that visitors can access upon entering the building, whether or not they have a library card. 

  • Billings Public Library, located at 510 N Broadway, provides free wireless to everyone during its open hours (Monday - Friday 9:00am - 8:00pm, and Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm)

Find free computer access at your local library

Not everyone has a smart phone to access free wifi, however.  If you don't have an internet-enabled device, not to worry! Most public libraries have plenty of computer kiosks with internet access that are available for patrons to use whenever the library is open. Accessing computers with internet access, therefore, is often as simple as getting a library card.

Many communities also offer mobile hotspots to residents needing internet access.  Mobile hotspots allow users to connect to the internet from virtually anywhere with no hassle.  In fact, many public libraries now offer patrons the chance to check out a mobile hotspot.

  • In Billings, hotspots can be checked out from the Billings Public Library for up to 14 days.  Check out BPL's page on mobile hotspots for more information.

Obtaining an Email Address

Once you've accessed the internet, creating a professional email address that you can use on applications and to communicate with potential employers is essential. 

  • Gmail is a simple and reliable option that is easy to set up

Just be sure that when you are creating an account, you are request a username that is professional.  Follow these tips to come up with a username that signals your professionalism to employers:

  • Avoid including nicknames; instead, opt for some variant of your full name (for example: J.Doe@gmail.com rather than Johnny.Doe@gmail.com)
  • Avoid numbers. Although there are so many people globally that it makes the chance of you getting your exact name at gmail unlikely, the automated options that email tools generate including numbers are more likely to trigger spam filters that will send your emails to junk folders.  Try to instead find ways to differentiate your name till you land on a unique combination (for example: Johnathan_Lewis_Doe@gmail.com might be available even if J.Doe@gmail.com is not.
  • Finally, avoid anything that seems too personal and might be seen as unprofessional.  Here are some examples of what to avoid:
    • crazycatlady@gmail.com
    • wild.thing.party.animal@gmail.com
    • ihatetheworld@gmail.com

Use common sense and good judgement to create a professional email address that will beat spam filters and demonstrate your professionalism to employers!

Challenge # 3: I don't have the right kinds of identification

Required Forms of Identification

In order to hire you, employers will require you to show two forms of ID (required to ensure that you meet the requirements to legally work in the US).  Most employers follow the document list approved by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  This typically involves choosing one kind of documentation from "List A," such as a passport, or one each from "List B" and "List C."  You can find the full lists of acceptable documents on the USCIS website, but the most common forms of identification are:

  • a driver's license or state identification card (from List B)
  • and a social security card or birth certificate (from List C)

Replacing Missing Documents

All too often, however, people lose or misplace these important documents, so its important to know how to replace them before applying for jobs.

State Identification Cards

In the state of Montana (and most other states), state-issued identification cards are available to residents at driver's license exam stations. Although of course you are welcome to go through the process of obtaining a driver's license (or replacement driver's license), the process to obtain a state ID is often simpler.

Keep in mind, however, that you will need additional forms of identification to begin this process, including proof of Montana residence and proof that you are a citizen (or legally authorized to be in the US).  There are provisions for unhoused people to satisfy the residency requirement, so visit the MVD website for more information.  In addition, you'll likely need a birth certificate to prove your citizenship.

Birth Certificate Replacement

Applying for a replacement birth certificate online is a fairly easy process, although it does cost money (and you'll need an email address and mailing address, so follow our guidance above before beginning).  Where you were born largely impacts how much you will have to pay out of pocket. In Montana, the in-state rate of replacement is $12, although you can find a list of fees for birth certificate replacement in other states here.

With a birth certificate and state ID card in hand, you should be able to satisfy most employers' requirements about hiring documentation.

Social Security Card Replacement 

If you need to replace a stolen or lost social security card, the process is easier than you think. Download and fill out this PDF application for a replacement social security card before visiting your local social security office. Take note that when you go to the social security office, you will also be required to show valid identification. 

  • The address for the Social Security Office in Billings is 2900 4th Ave N (Room 304)
  • Phone:1-866-895-1795

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