Is California Expungement a Waste of Money?

Here's my case, convicted of attempted auto buglary in 1999, record was expunged in 2003.

I have applied for Cingular Wireless, Wells Fargo, & Verisign.

ALL companies gave me an offer letter then took back that offer when the criminal background check came back to them.

What is the whole purpose of even having record expunged if it makes no difference? I check "no" to the question of whether or not I have ever been convicted and they cna still see it.

Please if someone has an answer please help... What else can I do or seek for help?

The benefit of expungement in California does seem to be limited. (The availability and benefit varies widely by state.)

The California Courts Self-Help Center suggests that the proper answer to give to an employer following a dismissal, when asked if you have a criminal record, is "Yes - Conviction Dismissed".