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Maximize Tax Benefits Before the WOTC Expires in 2025

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is an impactful measure for businesses aiming to achieve substantial tax savings while driving workforce diversity. The credit is poised to expire post-December 31, 2025, barring any legislative extension. This could be a final chance for savvy businesses to maximize financial benefits. Our comprehensive guide covers eligibility criteria, target groups, and the certification process necessary for businesses eager to capitalize on this strategic tax credit before it may disappear.

Key Benefits of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit: The WOTC is a critical federal tax credit for employers hiring from specific demographic groups traditionally facing employment challenges. It provides a dual advantage—financially bolstering businesses and contributing to broader socio-economic goals of workforce diversification. To qualify, employees must begin employment by January 1, 2026, based on current legislation.

Eligible Target Groups: Employers should focus on these groups to qualify for the WOTC:

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  1. Veterans: Including those unemployed for 4 weeks or more, and disabled veterans.

  2. Long-term Unemployed: Individuals without work for 27 weeks consecutively.

  3. Ex-Felons: Those overcoming barriers to employment due to prior convictions.

  4. SNAP Recipients: Individuals who have received food stamps within 6 months.

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

  6. Designated Community Residents and Summer Youth: Ages 18-39 living in Empowerment Zones.

  7. Vocational Rehabilitation Referrals: Those with disabilities referred by agencies.

Timely hiring in these categories is critical, given historical trends of Congressional extensions, yet uncertainties remain.

Credit Amounts and Limitations: The WOTC offers employers tax savings on a portion of wages for eligible employees:

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  • General Credit: Up to 40% of the first $6,000 paid, providing a maximum of $2,400 per employee.

  • Veterans: For disabled veterans, credits can reach up to $9,600 under certain criteria.

  • Long-term Unemployed: Offers up to $5,000 in tax credits for eligible hires.

Employees must work a minimum of 120 hours to qualify. Achieving 400 hours allows claiming the full 40% of first-year wages. For hours between 120 and 399, the credit is 25%.

Certification Requirements: Navigate the WOTC certification process through the State Workforce Agency (SWA). Submission of IRS Form 8850 and the Department of Labor’s ETA Form 9061 or 9062 is required within 28 days of employee start date.

Veterans’ Expedite Certification: Prioritized processes are in place to facilitate veterans' certification, enabling businesses to swiftly access benefits.

Restrictions and Exceptions: The WOTC is unavailable for:

  • Relatives and Dependents: Hiring a spouse, child, or dependent disqualifies credit claims.

  • Majority Owners: Self-employment or hiring major stakeholders doesn't qualify.

  • Federal Subsidized Programs: Wages under certain programs cannot be applied towards WOTC.

Considerations for Tax-Exempt Employers: Tax-exempt organizations can claim WOTC only for hiring veterans, applying credits against Social Security taxes.

Prioritize Immediate Action: With the looming 2025 sunset, immediate action on the WOTC is advisable. Past trends do not guarantee congressional extension, making the current window more crucial. Businesses desiring tax efficiency while championing accessible employment opportunities should prioritize understanding and leveraging the WOTC. Swift preparation and compliance are imperative to benefit from this substantial, soon-to-expire credit.

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Reach out to our office with questions, clarifications, or personalized advice on how the WOTC can benefit your business goals.

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