How to Tell If a Job Posting Is Still Active

Check whether an online job posting is probably still active, understand reposted roles, and decide whether a listing is still worth applying to.

By the ApplyArc Editorial Team• Published October 14, 2026

A job posting is most likely active when it remains available on the employer's own careers site, still accepts applications, and has a recent publication or update date. Listings on search engines and aggregators can remain visible after the original role closes.

No single signal is conclusive, so check the original source before deciding.

Signs a role is probably still active

  • The employer's careers page contains the same job and requisition number
  • The application form opens and accepts new submissions
  • The posting has a clear future deadline
  • The page was published or updated recently
  • The role appears in the employer's current job search results
  • A recruiter or employee recently shared the same opening

The company's own applicant tracking system is usually a stronger source than a copied listing on another site.

Signs the listing may be stale

  • The original link returns an error or says the role is no longer available
  • The Apply button leads to a general careers page
  • The job no longer appears when you search the employer's site
  • The posting date is several months old with no update
  • Different sites show conflicting locations or descriptions
  • The requisition number now leads to another role

A missing publication date does not automatically mean the role is old. Some systems simply do not display one.

What does it mean when a job is reposted?

A repost can mean the employer is still hiring, reopened the requisition, refreshed it for visibility, created several similar openings, or did not find the right candidate in the first group. It does not prove that the company rejected everyone or that the role is fake.

Compare the requisition number, location, responsibilities, and posting date. If you already applied to the same requisition, submitting an identical application again is unlikely to help. A polite check with a known recruiter may be more useful.

Should you apply to an older posting?

If the role remains active on the employer's site and is a strong fit, applying can still be worthwhile. Review older postings more carefully and avoid spending substantial time when the original source cannot be verified.

Use this order:

  1. Open the employer's careers site.
  2. Search the exact title and location.
  3. Compare requisition numbers and descriptions.
  4. Confirm the application form still works.
  5. Save the original source rather than the aggregator link.

Save enough information to verify it later

Record the posting URL, source, date found, and full description. If the page disappears before an interview, you will still know what the employer originally requested.

ApplyArc can analyze a job posting and save role context with an application. See what to do after applying online once you decide to submit.

Related job search guides

How Many Jobs Should You Apply To Each Week?A practical way to set a weekly application target based on role fit, available time, interview activity, and the quality of each application.Mass Applying Is Not a Job Search StrategyMany job seekers apply to dozens or hundreds of roles hoping something sticks. Mass applying often makes the job search harder and less effective.The Biggest Job Search Mistake After a Layoff: Applying Too EarlyAfter a layoff many people rush into applying for jobs immediately. It feels productive, but applying too early can actually reduce your chances of getting hired.