What is the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)?
The
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit available to employers for hiring individuals from certain target groups who have consistently faced significant barriers to employment. The goal is to incentivize businesses to create job opportunities for these individuals, thus promoting diversity and reducing unemployment.
Veterans
Ex-felons
Long-term unemployed
Recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits
Designated community residents
Vocational rehabilitation referrals
Summer youth employees
The specific eligibility criteria for each group can be found on the
IRS website.
Pre-screen potential employees using
IRS Form 8850, which must be completed by the job applicant on or before the day a job offer is made.
Submit IRS Form 8850 to the State Workforce Agency (SWA) within 28 days of the employee’s start date.
Complete and submit the
ETA Form 9061 or ETA Form 9062 to the SWA.
Once the SWA certifies the employee as eligible, the employer can claim the tax credit using IRS Form 5884 when filing their annual business tax return.
How Much is the WOTC Worth?
The amount of the credit varies depending on the target group of the individual hired and the number of hours worked. Generally, the credit is equal to a percentage of the eligible employee's first-year wages, up to a maximum amount:
For most target groups, the credit is 25% of qualified first-year wages for employees who work at least 120 hours, and 40% for those who work at least 400 hours.
For long-term TANF recipients, the credit is 40% of first-year wages and 50% of second-year wages, up to a maximum of $10,000 each year.
The maximum credit amount can range from $1,200 to $9,600, depending on the employee's target group and hours worked.
Tax Savings: The primary benefit is the reduction in the employer’s federal tax liability, which can significantly impact the bottom line.
Diversified Workforce: Hiring from a variety of backgrounds can lead to a more inclusive and diverse workplace, which has been shown to improve innovation and problem-solving.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): By hiring individuals who face barriers to employment, businesses can enhance their reputation and contribute positively to society.
Administrative Burden: The process of applying for and claiming the WOTC can be complex and time-consuming, requiring careful documentation and adherence to deadlines.
Employee Retention: To maximize the credit, employees must work a certain number of hours. High turnover rates can reduce the effectiveness of the credit.
Compliance: Employers must ensure they comply with all rules and regulations to avoid potential penalties or disqualification from the credit.
Conclusion
The WOTC is a valuable tool for businesses looking to reduce their tax liability while making a positive impact on their communities. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and potential benefits and risks, employers can effectively leverage this credit to enhance their workforce and financial performance.