TalkScams Team · Source-backed educational guide · Not a community report
Paid starter kits and training demanded before employment
A work offer that requires an applicant to buy a starter kit, certification or training package may be designed to take money rather than provide a job. The FTC says legitimate jobseekers should not have to pay to obtain employment.
Source: U.S. Federal Trade Commission · Original advisory date: 2025-06-11
This summary is not a firsthand report or an endorsement or partnership by the source.
Warning signs to recognize
- The 'employer' says your application will be rejected unless you purchase training first.
- A recruiter cannot confirm the employer through a verified channel
How to check or protect yourself
- Decline requests to pay for access to a job and report deceptive recruitment ads.
- Verify the offer before supplying payment or personal data