• • Led a team of 16 engineers working on a new media library solution
  • • Managed the research and built the new pricing strategy
  • • Planned, beta-tested and led the rollout of a new internal communications system to all 400+ employees in 6 locations
  • • Led the research for building the personal development platform Sunrise employees use currently
  • • Manage recruitment and resources training (more than 50 resources trained and coached)
  • • Brought in the user perspective to 4 successfully launched projects
  • • Decisions affected a total user base of 400,000+
  • • Led the launch of a new invoicing software in just 4 months​
  • • Led engineering team of 3
  • • Researched, tested and devised full gamification framework
  • • Planned event calendar & communications for 23 events
  • • On-site help and communications

5 US Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

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resume usa

Resume Guide

Professional us resume example, how to write an american resume, american resume header examples, american resume experience samples, the top skills to include on a us resume, special case, key takeaways: what makes a great american resume.

US resume example

You’re on the hunt for a new job, but first, you need to write an impressive resume.

While resumes and CVs are relatively the same across most countries, there are a few important differences you need to consider.

American resumes have extra requirements that can mean the difference between getting hired, or getting your resume tossed to the side without a second glance.

This guide will help you write a job-winning resume that fits all the US resume standards.

What you will learn:

  • The best length and format to use for your American resume
  • What not to include to avoid having your resume thrown away
  • How to use keywords to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems
  • What American hiring managers are looking for in their ideal candidate

What’s the American resume format?

American resumes almost always use a reverse chronological resume format . This resume layout highlights the most recent experience first, then moves backwards in reverse chronological order through the employment history.

This American resume style also includes information about education , career objectives and skillset , but work experience is the priority feature.

How long is an American resume?

Most American hiring managers want to see one-page resumes .

In the US, it’s standard practice to stick to one page. Recruiters only look at resumes for 7 seconds , so it’s essential that you keep yours concise and scannable at first glance.

If you’re struggling to fit your entire work history into one page, focus on your most recent and relevant experience. If you had an unrelated job over 10 years ago to the one you want now, it doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Recommended American resume sections

  • Resume summary
  • Experience section
  • Skills section
  • An overview of your

What recruiters want to see in a US resume

  • Proof that you can be valuable to their business
  • Examples of your real-world results in former roles
  • Genuine enthusiasm for the role you’re applying to
  • Highly relevant information, kept down to one page

US companies have to follow strict anti-discrimination laws when it comes to hiring.

It’s essential that you know what information you can include in your resume header , and which details you should leave out.

Otherwise, your resume might be trashed before the hiring manager even reads it.

Here’s an example of an American resume header with way too much information.

There are a couple of things wrong in this header:

  • The full address is included. It’s a good safety practice to include nothing other than just your city and state.
  • Adding a photo of yourself to your resume can be great in some countries to add a face to the name, but in the US, it’s a big no-no. Employers have to prove that they’re not being discriminatory in their hiring. Having a photo in your resume makes it very difficult for them to comply.

Let’s take a look at a US resume header sample with the right information.

This one hits the mark!

  • The job title is more descriptive by including the seniority level.
  • It has the right contact information , including an email address and phone number.
  • The applicant included their LinkedIn URL , so the hiring manager can look into them further.
  • Most importantly, it’s compliant with hiring laws, by not including a photo or detailed address (just the city and state is enough)

Results and achievements are important in the American workforce. When a hiring manager in the US is scanning your resume, they’re looking to see if you have what it takes to deliver value to the company.

No matter what industry you’re in, you should be specific in your experience section and highlight any achievements and/or improvements you made while on the job.

For extra brownie points, include real figures that backup your claims . Take a look at these resume experience section examples below for a clear picture on how to write yours.

  • • Assisted the CEO with daily operations
  • • Hired and onboarded new staff
  • • Managed expenses
  • • Booked business travel and meetings

These descriptions are too vague and only highlight your responsibilities. Every other applicant will have completed the same tasks in their former roles too, making it hard for you to stand out.

American hiring managers want to see how you can provide value to the role, so it’s important that you prove this in your experience section.

Here’s how:

  • • Provided business and personal support to the CEO, managing their relationship with 300+ contacts in their network
  • • Hired and onboarded new staff, who all achieved over 99% satisfactory scores at their performance reviews
  • • Managed all employee expenses, reducing spending by 56% and saving $50,000.
  • • Booked and managed over 20 business trips per year for the CEO.

In this experience section, the candidate ticks all the boxes! They’re using the right keywords that match the job description, such as “hire and onboard staff” or “manage employee expenses”.

They also use real data to back up their claims of success. Instead of just stating that they hired and onboarded new staff, they inspire confidence in the hiring manager by proving how those staff have gone on to be the right choice.

In your own experience section, think of ways that you can demonstrate and prove your value. What accomplishments did you achieve in your former roles? Did you improve revenue? Boost efficiency somehow? Win an award? These are all great points to mention to land an interview at a US company.

American companies hire just as much for culture fit as they do for technical skill .

The top soft skills for a US resume

  • Communication (written and verbal)
  • Team player
  • Self-motivated
  • Strong work ethic
  • Problem solving
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail

The hard skills you add to your resume is dependent on the job you’re applying for. Be specific in your descriptions.

Tip: Look at the job description that you’re applying for and mirror the same keywords they’re using to describe the responsibilities of the role. Your resume will more likely pass through Applicant Tracking Systems.

For example, if you’re applying to be a data scientist and they’re looking for someone who knows the programming languages Java, Python, C and Scala, include those specific terms in your skills section.

Here’s a list of general hard skills that can inspire your resume. Use these examples and build on them to be more specific to your job role.

The top hard skills for a US resume

  • Management skills
  • Programming skills
  • Engineering skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Writing skills
  • Project management skills
  • Construction skills
  • Artistic skills
  • Design skills
  • Marketing skills
  • Sales skills
  • Medical skills
  • Food & beverage skills
  • Service industry skills

How to write an entry-level American resume

If you’re in a situation where you’ve just graduated from college or university, or you’re transitioning to a different career, you won’t have relevant work experience to highlight in your resume.

In this case, you will want to focus on education, side projects and skills, rather than experience.

The functional resume format is perfect for these special cases. This resume layout focuses on skills and education, rather than employment history.

To stand out from other candidates, write about side projects or university coursework that represents your skills in your industry.

For example, let’s say you’ve grown your Youtube channel as a hobby and have gone from 0 to 10,000 subscribers in 6 months. If you’re applying for an entry-level Marketing position, this would be an amazing accomplishment to mention, since it proves your skills as a marketer and your passion for the role.

Talking about related projects and hobbies will help to boost your credibility as an entry-level candidate.

A job-winning US resume needs to cover these points:

  • Use a reverse chronological resume format, and stick to one page.
  • Don’t include overly-personal information like your full address or a photo of yourself.
  • Read the job description and mirror the same keywords they use in your skills and experience sections.
  • Include a mix of soft skills and hard skills to impress hiring managers
  • Add real-life data about your accomplishments to back up your claims.
  • If you’re just out of college or university, focus on your education, skills and side projects in your American resume.

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US Resume Format: How to Write and Best Practice Examples

resume usa

13 min read

A man sits in a lofty room next to a window at a wooden table, with sun streaming through the window down on to him and the room. He is working on his laptop.

Are you a foreign national applying for your first job in the US? If so, did you know that the standard US resume format often differs from requirements in other countries? Therefore, you'll want to use the appropriate US resume format to increase your chances of landing a job.

Or maybe you’re a US citizen, searching for your first or next work opportunity. In that case, ensuring your resume is up to par with current US resume formatting requirements is worth the effort.

Regardless of which scenario represents you, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we'll go over the information you need to include on a resume in the US, information you should never include, and best practices to present your information in the best possible light. Tips on how to write your resume, with a sample resume template, are also included to help increase your chances of getting a job in the United States. 

What are the different US resume format options?

There are  three primary types of US resume formats :

The traditional reverse chronological format 

The strategic functional layout

The best-of-both worlds hybrid resume

All of these options include similar information, but with a different layout. This piece will focus on the  reverse chronological resume format , which is the most common and familiar format used in the US.

What to include on a US resume

Here’s the basic information a hiring manager or employer in the US is looking for on your resume:

Name and contact information

Work experience

Qualifications

Generally, the work experience section will make up the majority of your resume when using a reverse chronological format, unless you have little to no work experience. In that case, your education section will take center stage.

You can optimize your resume with keywords tailored to the job position you’re applying for. For more information on what your resume needs to include, check out these resources:

How Long Your Resume Should Be ?

Good Skills to Put On Your Resume

What Does Relevant Experience on a Resume Mean?

What not to include on a US resume

There are several types of information you should exclude from your resume if you want to be a competitive applicant in the US. Don't include any of the following, unless specifically directed otherwise by the employer: 

Personal details . These include your date of birth, gender, religion, country of origin, ethnicity, marital status, or identification numbers, such as your social security number. US employers don’t need or want to see this information during the application stage, since it can lead to discrimination and confidentiality concerns. 

A headshot. Including a photo raises another discrimination issue by identifying your sex, and potentially your age and ethnicity. It also takes up valuable room on your resume that’s better used to describe your suitability. Only provide a headshot or photo if asked to do so, or if you're in a profession that requires it, like entertainment or the performing arts. 

Your full address. Stick to the city or location of where you live, plus the state. Street names or numbers provide too much information and take up space unnecessarily. 

Country prefix. You should include a phone number on your resume, though only if it’s a 10-digit US number. Include your area code but not the country prefix. Example: (555) 555-5555.

References. Only include references if the job posting specifically instructs you to provide them. Most employers will ask for references later in the hiring process if they want them.

Exam scores. Including your ACT, SAT, GMAT, TOEFL, or other test scores on your resume is not standard practice. Hiring managers are more interested in your experience and education.

Resume best practices for US applications

Now that you know the basics of what to include and what not to include for US employers, it's time to dive into some US resume formatting best practices. 

Layout flow

The standard US resume begins with your name and contact information at the top. From there, you'll include your headline, professional profile, core competencies / skills, work experience, education, and certifications, typically in that order. Depending on your circumstances, you may add specialized content, like volunteer experience, awards, publications, and organizational affiliations. 

Formatting standards

Margins, line spacing, font size, font type, and resume length are all considerations to ensure you meet US resume formatting guidelines.

Margins should be set at minimum of a half-inch at the top and bottom and three quarters of an inch on the sides, with the maximum being one inch all around.

Use between 1.15 and 1.5-point line spacing between text and double lines after headings. 

The font you choose should be easy to read. Georgia, Arial, Lato, Helvetica, Cambria, and Calibri are all good resume font options. 

Make the text easy to read. Use a font size of 10 to 12 point for the content that falls under each section of your resume. Titles and headers should be around 14 to 16 point font. 

Use a resume template that already has the formatting set up.

Regarding length, your resume should be  one to two pages in length ,  maximum. If you're early in your career, stick to one page. If you're an experienced professional, two pages is acceptable. Only in rare instances should your resume ever be longer than two pages. You might be able to get away with three pages if you're applying for a high-level senior or executive role, have been asked to list all your past work experience in detail, or are applying for jobs where longer resumes are expected, like academic positions or US federal government jobs.  

Template selection

The template you choose should be modern and ATS-friendly. Simple is best when it comes to the style of your resume. Black and white is standard and it's best to use bullet points with plenty of white space. Resumes with dense sections of content can frustrate the reader, reducing your chances of landing an interview. Avoid using graphics on your resume unless you're in an industry that warrants it, like fashion or graphic design. Even then, be mindful of an employer's  applicant tracking system (ATS) scans .

Employers use applicant tracking systems to streamline the hiring process. One capability of an ATS is rank job applicant resumes. If you want to get your resume to rank highly:

Avoid using designs, images, tables, charts, and fancy designs - clean, simple, and concise is best

Avoid acronyms and spell out abbreviations, so that you maximize the number of keywords in your resume

Send your resume file as a Word or PDF document with standard 8.5 X 11 sizing

Use an ATS-friendly resume template, like one of the 200 examples of  downable ATS-compatible templates  available on ZipJob

Only include information that’s relevant to the job you're applying for

Optimize your resume with keywords relevant to your target role

Keyword inclusion

Keywords not only help your resume to rank highly if it’s scanned by an ATS, but also grab the reader's attention to show you're a viable candidate for the job. Identify keywords to incorporate by reviewing the job posting and looking for the skills and phrases that align with your competencies and past achievements. 

Don’t keyword stuff. Keywords should be included so they’re part of the natural flow of your resume. 

Content development

US hiring managers are looking for the potential value you can add to the organization. Regardless of your titles or positions, you must show what you bring to the table. You want the reader to be able to easily and quickly view your abilities and accomplishments that represent your potential to succeed. 

When developing content for your resume:

Focus on experience and achievements that directly relate to the position you're seeking.

Use numbers to quantify achievements. Quantifiable data is a way to show, rather than tell the hiring manager what you're capable of. It allows them to visualize your potential in the role. For example, "Developed new process to collect customer satisfaction data, increasing customer response rates by 15%” is more informative and intriguing than "Developed process to collect customer satisfaction data."

Use American English with zero spelling or grammatical errors.

Be honest and accurate. Getting caught in a lie can mean losing out on the opportunity or even having an offer rescinded.

Omit details that don't support or add to the narrative.

How to write a resume for US employers

Now it's time to create the perfect US resume to land an interview. Below are five steps with examples to help you along the way. There’s also a full resume template to refer to at the end, so you can see the correct US resume format and flow discussed in each section. 

1. Provide your contact information

The first thing recruiters and hiring managers should see on your resume is your contact information, which includes:

First and last name

City and state

Phone number

Email address

LinkedIn URL

For example:

Phoenix, AZ | 555.555.5555 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/name/

You can opt to leave off the  LinkedIn URL . Alternatively, you can include a URL to your online portfolio or professional website. If you provide a URL, only choose one (LinkedIn is most common) and be sure the page is current and represents you well. 

2. Include a compelling headline and professional profile

The next section of your resume will include your headline and professional profile, sometimes referred to as a summary statement or professional summary. The headline highlights your job title or focus. The professional profile is a brief introduction that emphasizes your key accomplishments and skills and how you can add value to the organization. The goal of your profile is to grab the recruiter or hiring manager's attention and entice them to continue reading your resume.  

Here's an example:

Senior Marketing Director

Dedicated and ambitious marketing and communications leader with a keen understanding of market dynamics that impact regional, national, and international advertisers. Proven record of success in penetrating new market segments and steering account development, with more than 20% revenue growth over two quarters and a 30% increase in accounts in one year. In-depth knowledge of integration best practices across content types and mediums. Expert in creating successful brand strategies for organizations ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500s.

3. Highlight your skills and core competencies

Adding a  core competencies section  to your resume is another way to emphasize that you have the knowledge base to get the job done right. A list of core competencies can grab the attention of hiring managers and also help your resume to rank highly with an ATS. 

As a staple of any good resume, there are two types of skills you can highlight in this section:

Hard skills are the technical skills you possess and can be specific to particular jobs. Microsoft 365, typing, and AutoCAD are examples of hard skills. 

Soft skills are the personal skills you have. They’re necessary to succeed at most jobs and can be transferred between roles and sectors Interpersonal skills, effective communication, and creativity are examples of soft skills.

Some choose to include a core competencies or skills section at the bottom of their resume. However, it’s best to include your list of skills below your profile summary and above your work section so it’s one of the first things the reader sees. Additionally:

Tailor your core competencies list for each job posting. Be sure to include the ones you possess that are outlined in the job description.  

Keep your list short and focused, with about 8 to 10 skills included. 

As an example, an Accounting Specialist might include the following core competencies on their resume:

Certified Public Accountant | QuickBooks | Accounts Receivable | Research | Team Leadership | Accounts Payable | Collections | Customer Service | Tax Accounting | Risk Assessment

4. Showcase your work experience

Unless you have little to no work experience, the work experience section of your resume is most important. In this section, you tell your story and highlight your achievements. The typical US resume format includes the following work details:

Job title. The job title is listed first, allowing the reader to quickly see the positions you've held and how they're relevant to the job. 

Company name and location. List the company name and location below the job title. It's also an option to include a brief one-line summary of what the company does below the company name, if it isn't a well-known organization. 

Dates you held the position . Include the years you held the position to the right of the job title. 

Remit. Include a brief overview of the remit of the role.

Accomplishments. The core part of each job entry you include is the list of accomplishments and achievements. List about five to seven accomplishments for each position held. 

 Here are some pointers for completing the work section of your resume:

Tailor your resume to align with the job description. Review the job description carefully and ensure that any skills and accomplishments you have that meet the job requirements are included on your resume. 

Use powerful action verbs at the beginning of each achievement listed and use different verbs throughout. Led, developed, created, managed, stewarded, designed, built, devised and modeled are examples of strong action verbs. 

The standard is to include 10 to 15 years of work history. The employer is most concerned about recent work history and accomplishments, so there’s no need to go back more than 15 years. 

5. Include your education

Your education follows the work experience section unless you're a recent graduate or have minimal work experience. In that case, your education will come before the work section. Regardless, the essentials to include in the education section are:

Degree title

University name

Graduation year

You might choose to include honors, like Magna Cum Laude, and any minors you achieved, as well. Here’s an example:

Master of Art in Film and Media Production

New York State University, 2022

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration , Minor in Psychology

West Virginia University, Magna Cum Laude, 2020

If you don't have a college degree, you'll include your high school diploma or GED, for example:

High School Diploma

Philippi Colts High School, 2015

When listing a GED, list it as one of the following:

General Education Development Diploma

GED – High School Equivalency Diploma

Consider these tips when completing your education section:

If you have a college degree, don't mention your high school diploma or GED

List your most recent degree first when you have more than one degree

List relevant licenses and certifications below your degree

US resume format example

Group Product Manager resume sample after ZipJob's certified professional resume writer optimized the document for applicant tracking systems, employers, and hiring managers.

Create a US resume that sets you apart

Knowing how to format a resume for a job search in the US is half the battle. Now that you know the best practices and steps to create a resume based on US resume formatting guidelines, you can focus on producing a resume that sets you apart from other applicants. 

Want to ensure you have a resume that will land you a job in the United States? Why not submit your resume for a  free review  today? 

Recommended reading:

The Complete Guide to Listing Remote Work on Your Resume

What Does Relevant Experience on a Resume Mean? (+ Tips)

Best Email Subject Lines When Sending a Resume (+ Examples)

Ronda Suder, Professional Writer

With a drive to foster safety and expand possibilities through writing, performing, and working with others, Ronda brings 25 years of combined experience in HR, recruiting, career advice, communications, mental and behavioral health, and storytelling to her work. She’s a certified career coach and holds a Master’s in Human Resources, a Master’s in Film and Media Production, and a Master’s in Counseling and Development. As a writer, she’s covered topics ranging from finance and rock mining to leadership and internet technology, with a passion for career advice and mental-health-related topics. When she’s not at her computer, Ronda enjoys connecting with others, personal growth and development, spending time with her beloved pooch, and entertainment through movies, television, acting, and other artistic endeavors. You can connect with Ronda on  LinkedIn  and through her  website .

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Best Resume Writing Services of 2024

Table of Contents

  • Best Resume Writing Services
  • Things To Consider When Looking
  • How We Chose

In an increasingly competitive job market, seeking the best resume writing services is vital. While individuals and businesses still offer those services, some job seekers use AI resources as a shortcut. In fact, according to a recent study by MIT’s Sloan School of Management, using AI to help with overall help with resumes increased hiring odds by up to 8%.

Resources like ChatGPT are growing in popularity to help generate resumes and cover letters outright. However, many job searchers know that while they can use AI to formulate a generic resume for free, it is a tool that cannot fully replace a specialized, personal touch from a long-time professional. In this round-up, we review our choices for the best resume writing services to recommend the option that can best aid you in your job search.

  • Best Overall: TopResume »
  • Best Budget: TheMuse »
  • Fastest Turnaround Time: Craft Resumes »
  • Best for Executives: Let’s Eat Grandma »
  • Best for Federal Government Jobs: Federal Resume USA »
  • Best Suited For Career Changes: ResumeSpice »
  • Most Comprehensive: ZipJob »

resume usa

Best Overall: TopResume

Offers free resume reviews

60-day interview guarantee

Able to customize resumes by industry

2x more interviews or will rewrite resume for free

Limit of two revisions

Results might be disappointing if not willing to buy highest-priced package

TopResume is a popular service providing free critiques of existing resumes and a relatively low starting cost for a new and customized resume. The process works by first having you answer a detailed questionnaire and then matching you with an experienced professional knowledgeable of your industry who assists with customizing your resume accordingly. TopResume employs a network of 1,200 writers.

Your document gets carefully written to pass through applicant tracking systems, or ATS, to provide the best chance of getting your documents in front of a hiring manager and increasing your interview odds. In addition to resumes, TopResume also writes cover letters and LinkedIn biographies. You should expect your first draft back within a week. TopResume offers a maximum of two rewrites.

While TopResume aims to get things right the first time, the service provides up to two rewrites if you aren’t satisfied with the result; while this is a good start, those in highly specialized or less common fields may not have access to as wide a pool of experts as others. If you are willing to pay top dollar for the most expensive plan, your access to writers with specialist knowledge will likely expand.

TopResume’s pricing plans work for professionals at all levels, making it the ideal service for the broadest range of job searchers.

  • Pricing: Service starts at $149.
  • Turnaround time: Average of seven to ten days; possible 48-hour window if you pay to expedite service. 
  • Customization options: Resumes are created based on the information you share in a questionnaire; you then get paired with a resume writer knowledgeable about your industry.
  • Writer qualifications: TopResume works with United States-based writers who have experience in human resources, career coaching, recruiting, and job search strategies.
  • Customer support: Support is available by submitting a contact form on the website, emailing [email protected], or calling 1-800-604-1929 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST.
  • Additional services: TopResume also provides cover letters and LinkedIn page biographies. Elite Executive Priority Package customers also get interview prep sessions.

resume usa

Best Budget: TheMuse

Free resume templates and samples

Coaching is available for as low as $56

Options for all career levels

Job board with positions across various industries

Not a straightforward resume writing service

Slightly longer turnaround window than alternatives

No refunds for final resume or cover letter

TheMuse may primarily be known for sharing available jobs across multiple industries, but it is also a coaching and mentorship resource for job seekers. You not only have the chance to get your existing resume rewritten, but you can chat with a coaching professional by phone or Skype for 30 minutes; if unsatisfied, you get at least one round of edits.

In addition to tailored resumes, TheMuse provides coaching sessions, updated LinkedIn bios, and more. The service offers a combination of services meant to fit every budget and level of need. It’s easy to select only the features you need and avoid overpaying.

Although TheMuse provides valuable resume writing services, it does emphasize its coaching services over its resume and cover letter resources. TheMuse also works to update your existing documents instead of aiming to provide a resume built from scratch. If you already have a good foundation to work from, these services can be very useful for polish, but you may want to consider another service on this list if you are looking to start from the ground up.

Also be aware that you must be mindful of any errors in the draft as, aside from correcting spelling and grammar, no refunds get issued for final resumes or cover letters. You may be entitled to a single rewrite or unlimited rewrites depending on the service package you select. However, if you are simply displeased with the final version of the product for non-grammatical reasons, then it’s unlikely a refund will get issued.

  • Pricing: Packages with resume rewrites start at $139.
  • Turnaround time: Turnaround is about 7 to 14 business days.
  • Customization options: Resumes are tailored to your specific needs and industry.
  • Writer qualifications: Service tiers are divided based on the level of experience. Those at the “mentor” level have a few years of relevant experience, while master coaches have the most experience working with senior-level professionals.
  • Customer support: TheMuse website has a chat tool and a support ticket system; you can also email [email protected].
  • Additional services: Job board postings, career coaching, cover letters, LinkedIn profile updates, interview preparations.

resume usa

Fastest Turnaround Time: Craft Resumes

Free resume review

Writes resumes and CVs

Affiliated with the NRWA and PARWCC

Relatively fast turnaround

Packages available for professionals range from entry to executive-level

Price listings could be more precise

Possible grammar issues due to language barrier

Craft Resumes is an internationally-based resume writing service with a team dedicated to assisting jobseekers worldwide. In addition to resumes and CVs, you can receive a custom cover letter, thank you note, and LinkedIn page. Additionally, you can order career coaching and receive round-the-clock support from team members. Its pricing ranges from about $139 to $630, making it suitable for job hunters of all economic backgrounds.

Craft Resumes offers one of the fastest turnaround windows we could find when researching resume writing services. You should receive your first draft within a day of requesting service, and the process takes about five days on average. If you need a new resume fast, this resume writing service could be your best bet.

One major caveat for native English speakers is that Craft Resumes often employs resume writers who are not; this means there is a potential for language barriers and miscommunications. Some customers have complained of this previously. Even so, most customers tend to be satisfied with the work provided by this company. Craft Resumes works with people worldwide, so they are ideal for people seeking employment outside of North America.

  • Pricing: Service packages start at $139.
  • Turnaround time: Possibility of getting your first draft back within 24 hours, though the average window is about five days.
  • Customization options: Craft Resumes writers create resumes from scratch, tailored to each specific customer's needs.
  • Writer qualifications: Craft Resumes states that it is associated with the NWRA and PARWCC. It also shares profiles of its writers and coaches, detailing their accomplishments and levels of expertise. 
  • Customer support: If you need support, you can open the live chat on the website, email [email protected], or call 1-888-385-3312; the line is open Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. PST.
  • Additional services: In addition to resumes, Craft Resumes also writes cover letters, follow-up notes, and thank you letters. The service also creates LinkedIn profiles and provides career coaching.

resume usa

Best for Executives: Let’s Eat, Grandma

30-minute consultations

Completely customized resume

Free resume critique

Special executive-level concierge service

Very expensive compared to alternate services

Limit of rewrites unless you buy most expensive package

Let’s Eat, Grandma, sometimes called LEG, is one of the leading resume writing services available, though best suited for jobseekers with a more generous budget. Though it might be more expensive than some alternatives, its Executive Concierge Package is formulated and streamlined toward supporting the most senior-level members of the workforce who are looking to navigate from one role to the next.

If you want an executive-level resume writing service and experience, then Let’s Eat, Grandma is perhaps the most suitable option. That said, this company may not be the best fit if you are closer to entry-level or have a restricted budget. Let’s Eat Grandma’s main selling point is that it is not a budget resume writing service and is best suited for those seeking a premium, expert-level experience. If quality and expertise are your main concerns, and budget is not a primary consideration, then there’s a good chance Let’s Eat, Grandma represents good value for the money.

  • Pricing: Packages start at $439.
  • Turnaround time: Standard turnaround time is ten days for first drafts and an additional seven days for up to two revision requests. It is possible to get your request expedited, but there will be an added fee, and you need to reach out directly.
  • Customization options: Resumes are tailored to each customer.
  • Writer qualifications: Each writer undergoes an extensive testing process to determine their qualifications for the role. Afterward, they participate in a four-week onboarding process with ongoing support to ensure they continue to produce resumes that meet industry standards.
  • Customer support: Support is available via email, [email protected] for general support, and [email protected] for customers who purchased the Executive Concierge Service. Let’s Eat, Grandma recommends contacting your writer directly with questions or concerns before submitting a general support request.
  • Additional services: Cover letters, LinkedIn profile rewrites, hour-long career coaching sessions, access to a dedicated writer (for executives) and a representative.

resume usa

Best for Federal Government Jobs: Federal Resume USA

Plans are specifically available for those seeking government jobs

Also provides resume services for military spouses

Plan options for veterans

Range of affordable plan options

Website is a bit dated

Payment plans and pricing a little confusing

Federal Resume USA is a resume writing service that is specifically tailored towards supporting those seeking government and military positions. It differs from practically every other resume writing business reviewed in that it is primarily government-focused. Federal Resume USA works with customers trying to obtain a government job or who are transferring away from federal and military roles and need a civilian or private sector-friendly resume. The pricing varies from around $100 for a critique to $300 for resumes tailored toward GS-14, GS-15, and SES PO positions, putting the pricing plans within the budget of most potential customers.

Though Federal Resume USA may be a service that is ideal for government job seekers, it is hard to ignore how dated the website is. It can be hard to distinguish one pricing plan from the next, raising the risk of customers accidentally opting for the wrong plan. Though the pages lack a modern charm, the service is well-suited to customers who want writers specifically familiar with creating resumes for federal government and military jobs.

  • Pricing: As low as $99.95 (for resume critiquing)
  • Turnaround time: Between three and five days; offers same-day “rush order” service.
  • Customization options: Can convert federal military resume to civilian or private sector resume.
  • Writer qualifications: Certified professional writers who have worked with more than 800,000 clients.
  • Customer support: You can contact customer service by phone or by emailing [email protected].
  • Additional services: Besides critiquing and writing resumes, the service also provides cover letters and thank you letters.

resume usa

Best Suited For Career Changes: ResumeSpice

Creates resumes for a broad range of industries

Offers outplacement services to companies

DISC assessment to assist in navigating career path

Expensive resume service plans

No option to just get a resume written up

No clear refund policy

If you are looking to make a career change or need outplacement assistance, ResumeSpice is a leading resource for job hunters either making a change or preparing to move on from a current position. The process varies depending on the exact services you choose. For resumes, you select your preferred package; you can also choose to add other items, such as a cover letter.

After making your purchase, you should get an email from ResumeSpice and complete a quick questionnaire; the email also includes a link to schedule a consultation. Following a phone call with your resume writer, where you further explain your career goals and further expand on your questionnaire, the writer will get to work on your resume. ResumeSpice shares that first drafts are usually completed within two business days.

If you aren’t satisfied with the final product, ResumeSpice will rewrite your resume at no additional cost. The brand will also rework your resume if you fail to get a single interview within 60 days of working with them. While this may be agreeable to some customers, getting a refund appears difficult if you aren’t completely happy with the service.

  • Pricing: Entry-level resumes start at $479. 
  • Turnaround time: First draft within two business days.
  • Customization options: Get a personalized resume based on the information you provide in the questionnaire and a one-on-one interview with your resume writer.
  • Writer qualifications: ResumeSpice is a service built by experienced recruiters and is a PARWCC member.
  • Customer support: Use the website contact form, email [email protected], or call 832-930-7378.
  • Additional services: Cover letters, LinkedIn profile writing, career coaching and assessments, interview preparation, professional bios, and outplacement services for businesses. 

resume usa

Most Comprehensive: ZipJob

Affordable plans

ATS optimization

No clear indication of turnaround time

Not necessarily transparent about refunds

ZipJob is a resume writing service that provides a series of resume writing plans that work for entry-level job seekers as well as specialized package for executive-level customers. The service works by asking that you send a copy of your most recent resume and answer a few questions. You are paired with a writer who collaborates directly with you to create a brand-new resume. Once the draft is complete, ZipJob runs your resume through an ATS scanner.

ZipJob is so confident in its process and the quality of the resume that it promotes a 60-day guarantee for its Fast Track and Premium tiers; if you don’t get twice as many interviews as before using their service, ZipJob will rewrite your resume for free. The terms of service indicate that all sales are final and there are no refunds.

Aside from questions about turnaround and refunds for dissatisfied customers, ZipJob is a comprehensive service provider that works to ensure you are provided the best quality ATS-friendly resume that it can.

  • Pricing: Starts at $139 
  • Turnaround time: Though not listed, some past clients claimed a turnaround of up to 10 days.
  • Customization options: You work with a writer to build a unique resume.
  • Writer qualifications: ZipJob is a member of the PARWCC; its writers are put through a strict examination before getting offered work with the company.
  • Customer support: Email [email protected], message through the website, access the website chat or call 888-944-9929.
  • Additional services: Cover letters, LinkedIn profile updates

The Bottom Line

Resume writing services remain a valuable resource for job hunting, whether you are unemployed or presently employed and seeking a move elsewhere. For those lacking resume writing experience, these services can help you connect with someone able to take your work experience or accomplishments and present them in a streamlined manner while representing your best qualities.

Unlike utilizing AI alone, working with a person or team of people allows you to prep for interviews, acknowledge and work on any professional setbacks, and get used to comfortably collaborating with other people. The best resumes go beyond SEO and keywords – they empower you to self-advocate. The best resume writing services empower and coach you in ways only possible when humans are involved.

Things To Consider When Looking for Resume Writing Services

Hiring the best possible resume writing service comes down to a core group of considerations, each contributing to the increased odds of landing your ideal job. Here’s what to look for in a great service.

Experience level and writer certifications: You should aim to work with a writer with at least a few years of resume writing experience. Be sure to look for a resume writing service that is open about its writer’s qualifications and willing to showcase its team members.

Be wary of businesses that make lofty, general claims without any verifiable output or customer testimonials. As Sarah Johnston, expert resume writer and owner of Briefcase Coach, notes, “Reviews can be faked, and follower count is not a direct correlation of quality of service.” Popularity alone is not always enough to indicate future satisfaction. Johnston recommends a closer look at the process and an eye toward “how the company is extracting your career narrative.”

In addition to considering resume writing experience, opting for certified resume writers is also best for increasing your odds of getting a good result. Certifications through the National Resume Writer’s Association (NRWA) or the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC) are the most widely sought and respected. If you are seeking a verified resume writing professional or service, check to see if they are certified through these or similarly reputable organizations.

Pricing and value for the money: Consider everything that’s provided as part of the service when comparing plans or getting a quote. Are you only getting a resume written, or will you also receive a cover letter? Will you be speaking to someone over the phone or via video conferencing? The more features that come with the service, the more you can expect the price to rise. That said, receiving a valuable series of services that will strongly assist you in finding a new job should be considered good value for the money.

Entry-level jobseekers with a small budget may be more concerned with affordability, sticking to plans that provide just the necessities. However, a senior employee seeking an executive-level role will more likely seek higher-tier premium packages that offer far more than a well-written resume. Good value for money here will include high-caliber coaching, extensive interview preparation, and ensuring their resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are all flawless.

It is a good idea to aim for the best quality service you can afford, instead of prioritizing services strictly by which ones cost the least.

Combines AI with human expertise: While some services think of AI as something that could usurp their customer base, it has the strong potential to be a reliable resume-writing tool when combined with an organization’s pre-existing expertise and skill. Says Johnston, “AI can shorten the writing time, which, as a result, should decrease the cost of service.” As such, she says it makes sense for more price-conscious consumers to opt for a company that leverages AI.

Still, when it comes to AI, there should be a balance. For instance, some websites rely entirely on artificial intelligence or automation to construct a resume. You would input all the relevant information and generate a document. While that may be fast and convenient, there’s always the risk that you get left with something generic that doesn’t highlight your unique qualities as an employee or contractor. By working with a resume writing service, you are more likely to be paired with an expert who will showcase your best qualities.

Turnaround time: The turnaround period refers to how long it typically takes a service to receive your questionnaire, existing resume, or instructions and then return a first draft. The average time among top-tier resume writing services is typically 7 to 10 business days; some brands will skew slightly faster or slower depending on their experience, the type of resume work requested, or their workload. In some cases, especially if you only need a critique or a single-page resume, you might come across a service offering a window of one or two days.

Please note that turnaround time isn’t strictly about how fast you can get a draft back; it also demonstrates how thorough a service is with your case. When considering a resume writing business, you should know how long it should take to get back a first draft and how long it should take to complete any necessary revisions. If you are in a hurry, check to see if the resume writing service will expedite the process, but be prepared to pay an extra fee in exchange for getting your documents back within a notably shorter window.

Customization and personal approach: There are resume writing services that use the same formatting and font for virtually every resume they create, which could be an issue if your goal is to stand out. Having a resume that is visually forgettable and features the same jargon and keywords as everyone else’s will ultimately work against your chances of getting selected for a role.

To avoid falling behind, you should seek out a resume writing service that provides custom resumes and takes a personal yet professional approach to formulating your documents. For example, Johnston shared that she and her team spend an average of 15 hours on each executive resume. “The whole goal of a resume is to demonstrate to the reader that you, as the candidate, are the solution to their pain points.” Johnston notes that jobseekers have a habit of trying to tell a “kitchen sink” story with their resumes, throwing in everything without much regard to how naturally items fit. As Johnston puts it, “[Resume writers] help refine their messaging, so it resonates with their target audience.”

How We Chose the Best Resume Writing Services

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our writers and editors combined consultations with industry experts, including a former recruiter and executive-level resume writer, with in-depth research to curate a list of high-quality resume writing services. We formulated a methodology based on the most relevant features that jobseekers often look to when deciding on a reliable resume writing service.

We considered affordability and value for the money, turnaround time, customization, and even what services are best according to where one finds oneself in their career path. With these features in mind, we narrowed our list down according to the resume writing services we felt best fit each category and so are most suited to your specific needs.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors each have years of experience with product research and testing and are often directly knowledgeable of the topics they write for us. For instance, Toni Matthews-El, the writer of this article, has years of experience drafting resumes and cover letters. She not only wrote and critiqued resumes for numerous clients, but she also earned a professional branding certification through Randstad RiseSmart.

Even if writing your own resume or using an AI-based generator saves money, there’s a good chance there are crucial qualities you may fail to include because you don’t think of them as essential or feel awkward promoting your achievements. As Johnston notes, “The majority of people are quite terrible at tooting their own horn. It truly helps to have an external party unearth your story. “

A high-quality resume writing service is staffed by professionals who’ve spent years polishing professional careers to achieve the highest luster so your resume shines when placed in front of a hiring manager. And as competition for roles tightens, it will take more than the right keywords to impress. Many top resume writing services also provide interview preparation and one-on-one coaching.

Finding an affordable resume writing service that provides a low-cost first draft and at least one rewrite is very easy. While it is tempting to go the free route to save money whenever possible, premium resumes and cover letters help you put your best foot forward in the job market.

If you are worried about not getting the best value for the money, check confirmed reviews of past customers. You should also ensure the service has a money-back guarantee, draft rewrites, and is willing to provide refunds to unhappy customers.

Whether resume writing services help with cover letters usually depends on your purchase package. In researching this article, the author found that some services had plans that only created or updated resumes and other upgraded packages that handled both. Some services bundled resumes and cover letters, while others offered the items separately. Because many companies often request a cover letter with a resume, it is generally a good idea to combine both items when possible.

If you opt for freeware or a resume generator, then there is a good chance your resume is the result of automation or AI rather than an actual person’s work. If you work with a reputable writing service, then there is almost always at least one confirmed human behind the process, especially if the writer or coach emails you directly to begin putting the resume together.

It is important to note that top-tier resume services are increasingly using AI as part of the writing process, which isn’t something to automatically be afraid of. “If you are a price-conscious consumer,” says Johnston. “It might make sense for you to use a company that leverages AI. AI can shorten the writing time, which as a result, should decrease the cost of service.”

Johnston recommends seeking resume writing services that are transparent regarding how much AI figures into the overall process. “My company does not use AI for our document creation. I have concerns over data privacy and limited control over content. “

If you don’t like the resume the service writes for you, make a note of everything you have an issue with. Are there numerous spelling and grammatical errors? Highlight them and ask that they be corrected.

If it is a matter of incomplete or incorrect professional information, or dissatisfaction with the formatting, make detailed notes and ask if the writer can make changes so that the final product will be in line with your preferences. It is important to be aware of how many rewrites you are entitled to and to ensure that you make every desired change with the allotted drafts; a final version may not be entitled to the rewrites you desire.

If the problems involve poor spelling and grammar, you might be entitled to a refund or extra rewrite for an otherwise final draft. It is best to check the resume writing service’s FAQs or terms of service to know exactly what you are entitled to. If it is a matter of preference, there is a chance that refunds aren’t available. If that’s the case, your best recourse is to note everything you didn’t like in the first draft and work carefully with the writer to get it to align with your preferred version.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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Help Center

  • Application
  • What to include

What should I include in my federal resume?

Whether you’re a current federal employee or new to the federal government, your resume is the primary way for you to communicate your education, skills and experience.

Before you get started

Read the entire job announcement. Focus on the following sections to understand whether or not you qualify for the position. This critical information is found under:

  • Duties and Qualifications
  • How to Apply (including a preview of the assessment questionnaire, if applicable)
  • How You Will be Evaluated

Make sure you have the required experience and/or education before you apply. Hiring agencies use the job announcement to describe the job and the required qualifications, including:

  • Level and amount of experience

What to include in your resume

Federal jobs often require that you have experience in a particular type of work for a certain period of time. You must show how your skills and experiences meet the qualifications and requirements listed in the job announcement to be considered for the job.

Include important contact information

Don’t forget to add current contact information. Most job applications require this information:

  • Phone number

Read the job opportunity carefully to make sure you have included all required contact information.

Include dates, hours, level of experience and examples for each work experience

For each work experience you list, make sure you include:

  • Start and end dates (including the month and year).
  • The number of hours you worked per week.
  • The level and amount of experience—for instance, whether you served as a project manager or a team member helps to illustrate your level of experience.
  • Examples of relevant experiences and accomplishments that prove you can perform the tasks at the level required for the job as stated in the job announcement. Your experience needs to address every required qualification.

Program Analyst GS-343-11 January 2009—Present 40 Hours/Week $63,000/Year

  • Experience/Accomplishment

Include volunteer work and roles in community organizations

Don’t limit yourself to only including paid work experience. Include relevant volunteer work or community organizations roles that demonstrate your ability to do the job.

Use numbers to highlight your accomplishments

Use numbers, percentages or dollars to highlight your accomplishments—you can find this information in things like your performance reviews, previous job descriptions, awards and letters of recommendation.

When explaining your accomplishments:

  • Include examples of how you saved money, earned money or managed money.
  • Include examples of how you saved or managed time.
  • “Improved efficiency of document processing by 25 percent over the previous year”.
  • “Wrote 25 news releases in a three-week period under daily deadlines”.
  • “Managed a student organization budget of more than $7,000”.
  • “Wrote prospect letter that has brought in more than $25,000 in donations to date”.

These statements show in concrete terms what you accomplished.

More resume writing tips

Customize your resume.

You should tailor your resume to the job announcement rather than sending out the same resume for every job. Customizing your resume helps you match your competencies, knowledge, skills, abilities and experience to the requirements for each job. Emphasize your strengths and include everything you’ve done that relates to the job you’re seeking. Leave out experience that isn’t relevant.

Use similar terms and address every required qualification

Your experience needs to address every required qualification in the job announcement. Hiring agencies will look for specific terms in your resume to make sure you have the experience they’re seeking.

For example, if the qualifications section says you need experience with “MS Project” you need to use the words ” MS Project” in your resume.

Organize your resume to make it easy to understand

You need to organize your resume to help agencies evaluate your experience. If you don’t provide the information required for the hiring agency to determine your qualifications, you might not be considered for the job.

  • Use reverse chronological order to list your experience—start with your most recent experience first and work your way back.
  • Provide greater detail for experience that is relevant to the job for which you are applying.
  • Show all experiences and accomplishments under the job in which you earned it. This helps agencies determine the amount of experience you have with that particular skill.
  • Use either bullet or paragraph format to describe your experiences and accomplishments.
  • Use plain language—avoid using acronyms and terms that are not easily understood.

Hiring agencies often receive dozens or even hundreds of resumes for certain positions. Hiring managers quickly skim through submissions and eliminate candidates who clearly are not qualified. Look at your resume and ask:

  • Can a hiring manager see my main credentials within 10 to 15 seconds?
  • Does critical information jump off the page?
  • Do I effectively sell myself on the top quarter of the first page?

Review your resume before you apply

Check your resume for spelling and grammatical errors and have someone else, with a good eye for detail, review your resume.

Important facts about the federal hiring process

  • The federal government does have a standard job application. Your resume is your application.
  • Hiring agencies use the job announcement to describe the job and list the required qualifications and responsibilities.
  • After applying, the hiring agency uses the information in your resume to verify if you have the required qualifications stated in the job announcement.
  • Once the hiring agency has determined who is qualified, they may use other assessments such as interviews or testing to determine the best qualified applications.

Learn more about the federal hiring process .

Additional resources

  • What should I leave out of my resume?
  • How to build a resume
  • How to create a resume

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Yale wants you to submit your test scores. University of Michigan takes opposite tack.

resume usa

Yale University is the latest school to reverse course on its optional policy and require test scores from applicants, starting with students who enroll in fall 2025. 

The announcement Thursday makes Yale the second Ivy League college to take this step. Dartmouth said earlier this month that it would return to requiring test scores, citing an analysis finding that high-scoring low-income students often decline to submit their numbers. 

More: New digital SAT coming Big changes are coming to the SAT, and not everyone is happy. What students should know.

The vast majority of colleges have gone test-optional in recent years, many after the onset of COVID-19, which made the administration of in-person exams difficult. Other highly selective schools that resumed their test score requirements after the pandemic include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Georgetown. 

Yale’s new policy will be unusual in that it will be “flexible”: In addition to those from the SAT or ACT, applicants will have the alternate option of submitting their scores from Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate subject-based courses. 

Yale's announcement was similar to Dartmouth's, pointing to data suggesting “test scores are the single greatest predictor of a student’s future Yale grades.” That correlation, officials stressed, is apparent even when controlling for a student’s family income and other variables. The change was based on several years of research.

“Tests can highlight an applicant’s areas of academic strength, reinforce high school grades, fill in gaps in a transcript stemming from extenuating circumstances, and − most importantly − identify students whose performance stands out in their high school context,” the school said in its announcement. 

Critics, however, question the assertion that test scores are one of the best measurements of a student’s potential. Performing well on an admissions exam often depends on whether a student has the resources to access test prep services. Meanwhile, access to AP and IB courses remains uneven .

Test-optional trend remains strong at most schools

As a minority of schools reinstate their score requirements, many more have said that they're sticking to their test-optional policies.

The University of Michigan is among this larger group. It announced Wednesday that it would implement a test-optional stance indefinitely, citing research showing participation in rigorous high school courses is a strong predictor of college success.

Other schools that recently announced an extension of test-optional policies include the University of Missouri and the University of Utah .

Iraqi armed groups dial down U.S. attacks on request of Iran commander

Ceremony marking the anniversary of the death of senior Iranian military commander Mohammad Hejazi, in Tehran

  • Quds chief Qaani met factions at Baghdad airport: sources
  • No attacks on U.S. forces since Feb. 4
  • Lull allowed talks to resume over future of U.S. troops in Iraq
  • Fearing escalation, Iraq asked Iran to help rein in groups

IRAQ-U.S. TALKS RESUME

Reuters Graphics

AIRPORT SECURITY

Reporting by Ahmed Rasheed and Timour Azhari in Baghdad and Parisa Hafezi in Dubai; Additional reporting by Daphne Psaledakis in Washington; Writing by Timour Azhari; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Royal Air Force conduct further strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen

West African bloc lifts sanctions on junta-led Niger

The West African regional bloc said on Saturday it would lift strict sanctions on Niger as it seeks a new strategy to dissuade three junta-led states from withdrawing from the political and economic union - a move that threatens regional integration.

Supporters react at the African National Congress Election Manifesto launch in Durban

Watch CBS News

After AT&T customers hit by widespread outage, carrier says service has been restored

By Brian Dakss, Aimee Picchi

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: February 22, 2024 / 8:17 PM EST / CBS News

Customers of numerous U.S. cell service providers reported outages and other service problems early Thursday morning, according to the website  Downdetector.com , which tracks such reports. AT&T had the most by far, with tens of thousands of customers telling Downdetector they had no service.

Customers of T-Mobile, Verizon, UScellular and Consumer Cellular were also reporting issues, though far fewer. T-Mobile and Verizon told CBS News that their networks were operational, although some customers may be encountering problems when trying to reach people on another network.

The reports of AT&T outages appear to have started at around 4 a.m. EST, Downdetector said, then seemed to wane some two hours later, then picked up again and were about 60,000 at 11 a.m. EST.

But by 3:10 p.m. EST on Thursday AT&T  said  the problem had been resolved.

"We have restored wireless service to all our affected customers," AT&T said on its website. "We sincerely apologize to them. Keeping our customers connected remains our top priority, and we are taking steps to ensure our customers do not experience this again in the future."

Later Thursday night, the company attributed the outage to a software bug.

"Based on our initial review, we believe that today's outage was caused by the application and execution of an incorrect process used as we were expanding our network, not a cyber attack," the company  said on its website . "We are continuing our assessment of today's outage to ensure we keep delivering the service that our customers deserve."

United states cluster map showing concentration of user-submitted problem reports over the last 24 hours to Downdetector.com.

Officials: Don't call 911 to test your phone

Earlier in the day, some officials urged people not to call 911 to test whether their phone was working. 

"Many 911 centers in the state are getting flooded w/ calls from people trying to see if 911 works from their cellphone. Please do not do this," the Massachusetts State Police wrote on X, the former Twitter.

Likewise, Chicago's Office of Emergency Management & Communications had a similar message for local residents, noting that on X that people who actually need to get through to 911 should use a landline or find a friend or relative who uses a service other than AT&T and ask them to make the call.

Some municipalities experienced difficulties with 911 service.

The San Francisco Fire Department said in a post on X, "We are aware of an issue impacting AT&T wireless customers from making and receiving any phone calls (including to 911). We are actively engaged and monitoring this. The San Francisco 911 center is still operational."

In North Carolina, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said on X at 3:15 a.m. EST that it was "aware of a nationwide outage impacting AT&T cellphone customers this morning. Customers were briefly unable to contact 9-1-1. There are no disruptions to our call center's ability to receive 9-1-1 calls. Service should be returning shortly."

And in Florida, the Flagler County Sheriff's Office posted on X at 6:43 a.m. EST that, "Texts to 911 from affected AT&T users are now being received. If you have an emergency, and cannot dial out, send a text message to 911."

The transit system serving Philadelphia and its suburbs, SEPTA, said on X that, "Due to AT&T communication outages, some trains may reflect a delay, however all trains are operating on or close to schedule."

AT&T outage

As of 8 a.m. ET on Thursday, Downdetector had more than 60,000 reports of service issues from AT&T customers. Most of the complaints were focused on problems with their mobile phones or wireless service. 

Outages were highest in Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Louisville, Miami and San Antonio, according to Downdetector.

In a statement to CBS News, Verizon said its network was operating normally, although some customers experienced issues earlier Thursday when calling or texting people who use another carrier. It said that it was continuing to monitor the situation. 

A spokesperson for T-Mobile said it didn't experience an outage and that its network was operating normally.

"Downdetector is likely reflecting challenges our customers were having attempting to connect to users on other networks," the spokesperson said.

UScellular also told CBS News that its network was operating normally. 

"We are, however, aware of a disruption that could be impacting UScellular customers attempting to roam on or call customers of another carrier," it said in a statement.

How to turn on Wi-Fi calling

Even if you have no cellular service, you should be able to make phone calls using wireless internet access, which is what AT&T is recommending for its customers. 

To turn on Wi-Fi calling on an iPhone, go to "settings," then "phone" and next click on "Wi-Fi" calling. Apple says you may need to confirm or enter your address for emergency services. 

You'll see "Wi-Fi" in the status bar while you are looking at the control center, which means your phone will use the wireless internet service in your home or office to make calls. 

To turn on Wi-Fi calling on Android phones, Google says to open your phone app, then tap "more settings." Then tap "calls," and from there tap "Wi-Fi calling." If that's not an option on your phone, it means your carrier doesn't provide the option,  according  to Google.

What does SOS mean on my phone?

Some customers reported seeing an "SOS" message on their iPhones. 

This can happen when a cellular service isn't widely available, but your phone is letting you know that it will still work for emergency calls,  according  to Apple.

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AT&T outage resolved, authorities investigating

By Aditi Sangal and Catherine Thorbecke , CNN

AT&T says it has restored wireless service

A cell tower in Los Angeles is pictured on February 22.

AT&T said in a statement that it has now resolved the day's massive service outage.

"We have restored wireless service to all our affected customers. We sincerely apologize to them. Keeping our customers connected remains our top priority, and we are taking steps to ensure our customers do not experience this again in the future," the company statement said.

No indication of malicious cyber activity so far, US cyber official says

From CNN's Sean Lyngaas

A US cyber official tracking the AT&T outage told CNN there has so far been no indication that the outage was caused by malicious cyber activity, but the investigation is ongoing.

Fewer than 5,000 AT&T customers still reporting outages

From CNN's Catherine Thorbecke

As of approximately 2 pm ET, fewer than 5,000 AT&T customers were still reporting outages, according to self-reported data tracked by DownDetector.

The FCC says it is investigating the outage

The Federal Communications Commission confirmed Thursday afternoon that it is investigating the AT&T outage.

“We are aware of the reported wireless outages, and our Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau is actively investigating,” the FCC said in a statement Thursday afternoon that was posted on X.

“We are in touch with AT&T and public safety authorities, including FirstNet, as well as other providers," the agency added.

WH: Federal agencies still working to get to bottom of AT&T outages

From CNN’s Kevin Liptak

National Security spokesperson John Kirby attends a news briefing at the White House in Washington, DC, on February 15.

The White House says federal agencies are in touch with AT&T about network outages Thursday but that it doesn't have all the answers yet on what exactly transpired that led to the interruptions.

National Security spokesman John Kirby said the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI were looking into the matter and working with partners in the tech industry to "see what we can do from a federal perspective to lend a hand to their investigative efforts to figure out what happened here."

Kirby said that work was still ongoing.

"The bottom line is we don't have all the answers to that. I mean, this just happened earlier today. And so we're working very hard to see if we can get to the ground truth of exactly what happened," he said.

Tens of thousands of AT&T customers still say they have no service

As of approximately 12:30 pm ET, some 25,000 AT&T customers were still reporting outages, per data compiled by tracking site DownDetector . (DownDetector, notably, only tracks self-reported outages).

Still, the latest figure is a steep fall from the peak of some 74,000 AT&T customers reporting outages at around 9 am ET.

The DownDetector data indicates the widespread outage began around 4 am ET.

Telecom experts tell CNN that outages typically happen for mundane reasons

From CNN's Brian Fung

A "No Service" message is seen on an iPhone in Atlanta during an AT&T outage on February 22.

While Thursday's AT&T outage grabbed national headlines, outages do happen and usually for mundane reasons, several telecom experts told CNN. 

Common causes include construction-related digging that punctures fiber optic cables and software misconfigurations that can lead to interruptions, said TJ Kennedy, a public safety communications expert. 

 "I can't think of every incident in the last few years, but I can think of things related to routers, things related to backhaul, things related to software," Kennedy said. "This has happened across all major carriers, multiple times in the past few years alone."

Thursday's outage could have been caused by human errors in AT&T's cloud-based networking system, said Lee McKnight, an associate professor at the Syracuse University School of Information Studies. 

"The dirty secret of telecom networks these days is they are just a bunch of wires and towers connected to the cloud ,"  McKnight said. "Someone making a mistake, and others on their team — and their automated tools — not catching it, is quite common in cloud computing."

The FCC will almost certainly investigate the outage, experts tell CNN

The Federal Communications Commission will almost certainly investigate this week's incident, multiple experts said. The FCC requires carriers to report information linked to network disruptions.

"The carriers are required to report their outage numbers over time, and the commission can track the number of consumers and cell sites down and things like that," said a former FCC official.

Telecom carriers have every reason to fix any outages quickly, said the former FCC official, "because it creates black eyes for the brand."

"Everybody's incentives are aligned," the former official said. "The FCC is going to want to know what caused it so that lessons can be learned. And if they find malfeasance or bad actions or, just poor quality of oversight of the network, they have the latitude to act."

Gov. Ron DeSantis: "Think about the implications if something like that happened on a much grander scale"

From CNN’s Rebekah Riess

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at a press conference in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, on February 22.

Florida Governor and former GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis opened an unrelated press conference on Thursday with comments regarding the ongoing AT&T network outage, affecting thousands of customers.

The governor said his office had been in touch with AT&T, who told them they were working to put customers back online, but were focusing on restoring emergency services. DeSantis said AT&T did not speak about what had caused the outage.

“You think about just your daily life, like having cell phones, honestly, it's like, imagine if we had like an EMP attack or something like that would end up happening this country,” DeSantis said. “It’s not necessarily a good thought, because you think you're just so naturally reliant on having cell service (…) so it's a little bit jarring and think about the implications if something like that happened on much grander scale.”

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