How long do employers keep applications?

Employers are required by law to keep employment applications for a minimum of one year. Failure to do so does not only constitute a violation of the law, but it also can serve as evidence that employment discrimination has occurred.

While employers are required to keep employment applications for only one year following its submission, the Texas Workforce Commission recommends employers keep applications from candidates for at least four years to ensure the statute of limitations for any possible lawsuits has passed. Employment applications for individuals who become employees are kept for a minimum of 7 years, and they often become part of an employees permanent file.