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The Global Insight

What are the 3 biggest challenges that inmates face when returning back to the community?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on April 02, 2026

The 4 Biggest Challenges Facing Those Newly Released From Prison

  • Challenge #1: Not Knowing Where to Begin.
  • Challenge #2: Family Strain.
  • Challenge #3: Finding Employment.
  • Challenge #4: Mental Health Issues.

    Why is it difficult for felons to get legitimate employment?

    Ex-offenders are also likely to suffer from the informal biases that accompany the stigma of a criminal conviction, making the job hunt nearly impossible. If an employer has a large stack of applications for a low-skilled job, requiring the disclosure of a past conviction can effectively preclude an interview.

    Do federal prisoners get money when released?

    If you are released from a state prison into the custody of another state prison, a federal prison, or a county jail, you will not get gate money until you are released from that custody. (This might happen if you face charges or have been convicted in another state or in the federal system.)

    What is post incarceration syndrome?

    What Is Post Incarceration Syndrome? Post Incarceration Syndrome (PICS) is a mental disorder that occurs in individuals either currently incarcerated or recently released; symptoms are found to be most severe for those who encountered extended periods of solitary confinement and institutional abuse.

    How long does it take for an ex felon to get a job?

    Ex-felons must be hired within one year of their release or the end of their parole or probation. The WOTC program provides employers with a credit up to $9,600 each year, for every employee that meets the criteria to qualify under the credit.

    Are there any programs to help ex-felons get jobs?

    The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal government program offering a tax credit to incentivize employers to hire ex-felons and applicants from other groups with work entry barriers, such as veterans and recipients of temporary assistance (TANF) and food stamps (SNAP).

    Can a person with a felony get a job?

    With so many people suffering from acrophobia, fear of heights, energy companies are willing to hire job candidates with a prior felony conviction. Most energy companies offer their employees a decent wage and great benefits, such as health insurance and paid time off.

    How long do you have to be on parole before you can get out?

    Although not all released prisoners are put on parole, a large majority are. The average time spent on parole is 19 months. PROBATION AND PAROLE REQUIREMENTS All convicted offenders must comply with the court-ordered special conditions of their probation or parole.