Maximize Tax Savings with the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Before It Expires

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) represents a crucial opportunity for businesses to obtain substantial tax savings while enhancing workforce diversity. As this federal tax credit is set to expire on December 31, 2025, unless Congress acts to extend it, businesses should move swiftly to take advantage of this financial benefit. In this article, we explore the detailed qualifications, eligible groups, and the necessary steps for certification employers need to understand to fully benefit from this tax incentive.

Understanding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit: The WOTC is designed to encourage employers to hire individuals from groups that have historically faced barriers to employment. This credit not only offers significant financial advantages but also contributes to meaningful workforce diversification. Eligible hires must commence employment before January 1, 2026, to be covered under current legislation. Historical congressional extensions are not guaranteed, making prompt action essential.

Eligible Target Groups: The WOTC applies to a diverse range of groups, such as:

  1. Veterans: This group includes veterans unemployed for over four weeks or those classified as service-connected disabled veterans.

  2. Long-term Unemployed: Individuals who have been unemployed for at least 27 consecutive weeks.

  3. Ex-Felons: Those who face challenges in securing employment due to past felony convictions.

  4. SNAP Recipients: Individuals who have received food stamps in the preceding six months.

  5. TANF Recipients: Persons who have received assistance in the past two years.

  6. Designated Community Residents: Those aged 18 to 39 residing in Empowerment Zones.

  7. Vocational Rehabilitation Referrals: Individuals referred by rehabilitation agencies due to disabilities.

Adherence to the stipulated start dates is crucial for compliance with the WOTC requirements. Image 1

Credit Amounts and Limitations: Employers can claim a percentage of wages paid to eligible employees as a tax credit, with variations based on the target group and work hours:

  • General Rule: Up to 40% of the initial $6,000 paid to an employee, which equates to a maximum $2,400 credit per employee.

  • Veterans: Credits can reach $9,600 for certain disabled veterans.

  • Long-term Unemployed: Eligible for credits up to $5,000.

Employers must ensure employees work a minimum of 120 hours to qualify. A full credit of 40% applies if 400 hours are worked, dropping to 25% for 120 to 399 hours. Image 3

Certification Process: Employers must work with their State Workforce Agency for certification, submitting IRS Form 8850 alongside ETA Forms 9061 or 9062 within 28 days of the eligible employee’s start date.

Fast-tracked Certification for Veterans: A streamlined process is available for veteran certifications to facilitate quicker benefit realizations for employers.

Exclusions to Note: The WOTC is not available for relatives or dependents, business majority owners, or wages paid under specific federal programs.

Tax-Exempt Employer Benefits: Organizations exempt from taxes, such as 501(c)s, can only claim the WOTC for veteran hires, applicable against their Social Security tax obligations.

The Urgency to Act: Due to the impending 2025 expiration and no assurance of Congressional extension, businesses should actively pursue WOTC opportunities now. By doing so, they not only benefit from tax savings but significantly impact social employment challenges. Image 2

Our Houston-based firm, Tangie R Cooper CPA Inc, stands ready to assist businesses in navigating this time-sensitive process. Contact us to explore how the WOTC can specifically benefit your operations, fortifying both your financial and community goals.

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