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Seize the Opportunity: Maximize the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Before 2025 Ends

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) stands as a strategic tool for employers aiming to reduce tax liability while promoting workforce diversity through the engagement of individuals from designated target groups. As this credit is slated to expire at the close of December 31, 2025—barring any legislative extension—it's imperative for businesses to harness its potential benefits while they still can. Delve with us into the nuances of the WOTC, including the eligible qualifications, target groups, working hour requirements, and the certification protocols employers must navigate to capitalize on these tax savings.

Comprehending the Work Opportunity Tax Credit: The WOTC is a federal tax credit designed to incentivize employers to hire from certain groups historically challenged by employment barriers. This initiative not only benefits businesses but also strengthens the labor market by fostering inclusivity. It's crucial that eligible hires commence employment by the end of 2025 to qualify under the present legislative framework.

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Eligible Target Groups: The WOTC encompasses various target categories including:

  • Veterans: Notably those unemployed for a minimum of four weeks or those with service-related disabilities.

  • Long-term Unemployed: Individuals out of work for 27 weeks or more.

  • Ex-Felons: Individuals facing employment barriers due to prior convictions.

  • SNAP Recipients: Individuals who have recently received food stamps.

  • TANF Recipients: Those receiving assistance in the past two years.

  • Designated Community Residents and Summer Youth Employees: Young adults residing in Empowerment Zones.

  • Vocational Rehabilitation Referrals: Individuals with disabilities referred through vocational rehabilitation.

The urgency lies in ensuring these hires are made before the looming deadline, even as Congress historically extends the credit.

Credit Amounts and Limitations: The WOTC offers credits based on a percentage of wages paid to eligible employees, determined by their particular group and hours worked:

  • General Rule: Up to 40% of the first $6,000 in wages, capping the credit at $2,400 per employee.

  • Veterans: For eligible disabled veterans, the credit may escalate to $9,600 under certain conditions.

  • Long-term Unemployed: Offers substantial credits, potentially reaching $5,000.

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Eligibility requires an employee to work at least 120 hours. A full 40% credit is available if they work over 400 hours, otherwise, the rate scales to 25%.

Certification Process: To claim the WOTC, navigating the certification protocol through the State Workforce Agency (SWA) is essential. Employers must file IRS Form 8850 and the Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration’s (ETA) Form 9061 or 9062 within 28 days of the employee’s start date.

Accelerated Certification for Veterans: Veterans benefit from an expedited certification process, reflecting the priority accorded to them, which facilitates quicker access to hiring benefits.

When the Credit Isn’t Accessible: There are particular rules that can disqualify a claim for the WOTC:

  • Relatives and Dependents: Credit claims for family members such as spouses or dependents are not permissible.

  • Majority Owners: The credit is inapplicable when hiring oneself or other major stakeholders.

  • Federal Subsidized Employment Programs: Wages paid under certain federal programs are exempt from the WOTC.

Tax-Exempt Employer Considerations: Non-profits can tap into the WOTC only for veteran hires and apply the credit exclusively against employer Social Security tax obligations.

The Pressing Need to Act: With the impending deadline of December 31, 2025, organizations must act promptly to exploit the WOTC. Although Congress has a pattern of extensions, the current lack of action accentuates the urgency.

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By prioritizing the understanding and application of the WOTC, businesses can achieve tax efficiencies while contributing influentially to society by empowering groups with systemic employment challenges. Prompt action and thorough documentation are paramount to leveraging this impactful credit before its potential expiration.

Reach out to our office for tailored guidance on maximizing the benefits of the WOTC for your business needs.

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