Utah Back to Work

Program description

The Department of Workforce Service (DWS) has developed an initiative to provide Utah employers with an opportunity to re-employ approximately 3,200 Utah workers. The Back-to-Work Program will target two groups: 1) 2,500 Unemployment Insurance (UI) claimants who are currently receiving Unemployment Insurance benefits; and, 2) 700 18-24 year old youth who are unemployed.

A wage subsidy of up to $2,000 per eligible participant will be provided to the employer for each employee they hire and retain for three months.  This program will provide DWS with a unique opportunity to leverage our resources, stimulate job growth, and help ensure the UI trust fund remains solvent.

Employers that hire from a targeted group of job seekers may be eligible to receive the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) on their federal tax return.

Program OBJECTIVE:

Provide an incentive to Utah employers to hire targeted UI claimants and unemployed youth while also providing job seekers with an opportunity to become re-employed.

BENEFITS to Participating Employers:

  • A $500 payment during the first month of hire, per qualifying new hire.
  • A $1,500 payment at the completion of three months of employment, per qualifying new hire.
  • Employers can choose how to utilize the subsidy.
  • If a participating employer re-hires a previous eligible employee, there may be future UI Contribution Tax Rate benefits.
  • Opportunity for business expansion.
  • Opportunity to observe potential permanent employees.

EMPLOYERS Eligibility Requirements:

  • Active employers, registered with DWS UI Contributions Division.
  • Employers who are current with UI taxes and required reports.
  • Non-governmental, private-sector and higher education (institutions) employers.
  • Employers who will pay a minimum of $9.00 per hour starting wage.
  • Employers who guarantee full-time (35+ hours per week) employment.
  • Note: Temporary help companies, professional employer organizations and government employers are not eligible to participate in the subsidy program.
  • Employers may not displace or partially displace existing workers.

Next Steps to participate:

  • Participating employers must sign an agreement with DWS before hiring.
  • Participating employers must complete a DWS-approved invoice for payments.
  • For additional information, please contact the nearest DWS Employment Center or call 1-888-920-9675.
  • Employer Flier