Do I Need My Address on My Resume?

By Jamison Barry

Do I need my address on my resume?

When was the last time you recall sending someone a letter? Unless you enjoy stationery, I imagine it was quite some time ago, if ever. In today’s day and age, written correspondence by mail is highly uncommon, which begs the question: do you need your address on your resume?

Strictly speaking, no. This was a traditional practice when physical mail was the primary mode of correspondence, and as we have transitioned into the digital age, most correspondence in this regard is handled by email or phone. For some, it may seem to be a good idea to provide an indication that you live within the area you are applying for. In other cases, it is a cause to potentially discriminate you as a potential employee if you live an hour or more away from the business, compared to someone who lives closer.

In truth, it depends on what the job description specifically lists.

If a job description explicitly says to list your address, you would do well to do so. In the event you are concerned about your own safety or privacy, a way around this would be to arrange a phone call or to email the business or position’s contact personnel in order to make this known prior to submitting your application.

If a job description does not ask for your address, there are some options you can take. If applying for a local position, you can include your general location on your resume, such as your postcode and state information. Your exact address down to your house number and street name aren’t necessary here. If applying for a position that is further from your residence, not including your address on the resume can reduce the chances of being discriminated against because of the distance. However, if you are applying for a job that would require you to relocate, you must indicate that you are willing and prepared to do so, and perhaps have already begun the process.

When it comes down to it, the practice of including your address on your resume is a trend that was more relevant in the days of mail correspondence. Today, email and telephones replace this, making the need for your address to be listed in your application less necessary.

At the end of the day, it is a decision that must be made with the context of the position you want to apply for in mind. This is why you must read position descriptions carefully to make sure that your resume focusses on the key information requested.