What to say if you lied on your resume?
Michael Gray
Updated on March 28, 2026
What to Do When You’ve Lied on Your Resume
- Option 1. Update Your Resume.
- Option 2. Come Clean and Tell the Truth.
- Option 3. Do Nothing.
- Option 4. Withdraw Your Application.
What happens if I lie on a job application?
If you have landed a job by lying on your resume, background check, or in your interview, you may be end up being fired. For example, if, on your resume, you falsely list that you received a college degree in a field related to the job, you will probably get fired if your employer ever discovers the falsehood.
Can you get a job with a fake resume?
If a prospective employer conducts a background check and discovers you’ve lied (either directly or by omission) about your work history, criminal past, education, professional certifications, or other key facts, don’t expect a job offer.
What is it called when you lie on a job application?
If employment is being sought from a state or federal employer, it is likely a crime to lie on an application because it is often a crime to lie to a federal or state government agent. Another possibility is that the applicant can be charged with a criminal fraud offense.
What to do when you have lied on your resume?
When you complete the application, you are legally affirming your dates of employment and your employment history. The company may verify those dates with your previous employer. If you have lied, you have a lot of company.
What happens when you lie on a job application?
And now the company wants you to fill out a job application. When you complete the application, you are legally affirming your dates of employment and your employment history. The company may verify those dates with your previous employer. If you have lied, you have a lot of company.
Is it illegal to lie on a resume?
Lying on a resume, cover letter, or job application isn’t technically illegal. These forms aren’t legal documents, so usually you can’t get prosecuted for lying on them. However, if you falsify documents that “back up” claims of educational history, for example, that could be grounds for trouble with the law.
Why did I get fired for lying on my resume?
That’s right, you got fired. You were let go because of some falsity, some fabrication, they just found out about. You had lied on your resume. If this cautionary tale isn’t enough to get you to reconsider, read on as we talk more about lying on resumes, cover letters, job applications, and employment interviews.