OLMIS

by Gary Dominick
Published Oct-27-2011

Work Opportunity Tax Credit Hire Oregon Veterans Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Veteran Employment Representatives

Veterans demonstrate the skills and work ethic that can help businesses flourish. Leadership, teamwork, efficiency, respect, and integrity are values that veterans bring to any workplace.

Resources and incentives are available to businesses who hire veterans.

The Work Opportunity Tax Credit provides employers an incentive to hire certain eligible veterans with barriers to employment. Employing qualified target group members can reduce an employer's federal income tax liability. Currently, an employer may claim up to $2,400 for a new, eligible veteran hire or up to a maximum of $4,800 for a certified disabled veteran.

Visit the employers' incentive programs area at www.WorkingInOregon.gov for more information.

Hire Oregon Veterans is a specialized program for businesses in Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties. The on-the-job training program may reimburse employers up to 50 percent of a trainee's wages during the period of time required for proficiency - up to four weeks or 30 calendar days - in the occupation. With the help of the on-the-job training program, businesses can hire eligible veterans to train to meet the company's specific needs. The trainee will learn the job while engaged in productive work. Eligible veterans may also receive funding for work related necessities such as tools, work clothing, short term training funds and other work required items.

Visit www.uscg.miwww.HireOregonVets.org for more information.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides incentives to businesses who hire veterans with service-connected disabilities. The program can supplement apprentice wages up to the journeyman level and pay for necessary tools. For veterans facing extraordinary obstacles to employment, businesses can be reimbursed up to 50 percent of a veteran's salary in an on-the-job training program for up to six months. The business is also eligible for a federal tax credit for hiring an individual participating in either of these vocational rehabilitation programs.

Visit www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/emp_resources.htm for more information.

The Oregon Employment Department provides specialized staff working solely with employers and veterans to achieve maximum employment and training opportunities for veterans. These veteran representatives connect with employers using events such as veteran job fairs, direct referrals, and other specialized veteran-focused activities.

For more information on Oregon Employment Department veteran services, visit www.employment.oregon.gov/EMPLOY/VETS/employer_svcs.shtml.