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Programs and credits available for veterans and businesses who hire them
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Nov. 8, 2017 – Veterans have a lot to offer the workforce and state agencies are committed to help them be successful in pursuing their careers.
The Department of Veteran Affairs has teamed up with the Department of Revenue and the Employment Security Department to promote some of the programs and tax credits available to veterans and the businesses who hire them.
“Veterans make great employees,” said Lourdes “Alfie” Alvarado-Ramos, Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs. “Any employer looking for results focused individuals who know how to lead, follow and contribute to a high performance organization should Hire a Veteran.”
Businesses that hire unemployed veterans for full-time employment in Washington can receive credit against their Business and Occupation (B&O) or Public Utility Tax (PUT). This tax break became effective Oct. 1, 2016. Businesses can earn credits through June 30, 2022.
“Our veterans have dedicated their lives to serving our country,” said Vikki Smith, Director of the Department of Revenue. “The skills they developed in the military make them a valuable contributor to our state’s workforce.”
The Washington State Employment Security Department leads the YesVets effort, a partnership campaign with the Department of Veteran Affairs and the Washington State Military Transition Council. The campaign connects employers to veterans with the skills they need.
Businesses can also check out other state and federal tax credits and programs available to support veteran employment:
Work Opportunity Tax Credit
This federal tax credit is available to employers who hire veterans who meet the criteria at the time of hire. Find out more about this credit: https://esd.wa.gov/about-employees/WOTC.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
This program offered by the U.S. Department of Labor can provide training assistance and supportive service to eligible job candidates. Some jobs may qualify for On the Job training opportunities that can reimburse an employer half of a trainee’s wages, up to $5,000. Find out more about this program: https://www.doleta.gov/wioa/.
Veteran Owned Business Certification
Veteran- or service member-owned businesses can become certified to do business with state agencies and have their businesses added to a statewide list of veteran-owned businesses. The list provides state agencies and other private businesses easy access to veteran-owned businesses’ information. For more information on this program: http://www.dva.wa.gov/program/veteran-owned-business-certification.
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Editor’s note: More information about the B&O and PUT tax credit can be found here.
Media Contacts:
DVA: 360-725-2154 or heidia@dva.wa.gov
DOR: 360-534-1602 or DORMedia@dor.wa.gov
ESD: Sam Mitchell, veterans program manager, 360-570-6953, smitchell@esd.wa.gov
Bill Tarrow, deputy communications director, 360-902-9376, btarrow@esd.wa.gov
