For years, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) has quietly helped employers offset the cost of hiring certain job seekers who face barriers to employment — veterans, SNAP recipients, individuals with disabilities, and more.
Yet despite the benefits, few employers openly reference WOTC in their job descriptions. That’s a missed opportunity.
Including a short mention of the WOTC program in your open job postings can:
1. Promote Transparency and Trust
When job seekers understand that you participate in WOTC, it signals that you value transparency in your hiring practices.
It shows you’re not just checking a compliance box — you’re openly sharing that there may be additional steps in the application process (like answering a brief eligibility questionnaire) and that these steps are part of a federally recognized program designed to create opportunity.
2. Foster Inclusion and Comfort
For applicants who belong to WOTC-eligible groups, a mention in the job posting can reduce uncertainty or stigma.
Instead of wondering if they’ll be welcomed or judged for their background, candidates see clear evidence that your company actively supports hiring people from diverse walks of life. This simple addition can help applicants feel confident and encouraged to apply.
3. Provide a Competitive Advantage in Talent Acquisition
In tight labor markets, every small edge counts.
Employers who highlight WOTC participation differentiate themselves from competitors who say nothing.
This matters because job seekers from WOTC-eligible categories may be more likely to choose employers that they know value, and invest in, inclusive hiring.
It’s a subtle way to signal: “We see your potential, and we’ve built a hiring process that welcomes you.”
4. Keep It Simple in Your Postings
You don’t need to turn your job listing into a WOTC brochure. Even a short line can make a difference:
“We participate in the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit program, which helps us create opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds. You may be asked to complete a brief, confidential questionnaire during the hiring process.”
The Bottom Line
Mentioning WOTC in your job descriptions isn’t just good compliance hygiene – it’s a recruiting strategy. It can help you stand out, connect with eligible applicants in a more meaningful way, and demonstrate that your organization values both opportunity and transparency.
And while the financial benefits of an optimized WOTC program are real, the true win is in expanding your talent pipeline and building a workforce that reflects the diversity of your community.
Ready to get started with optimizing your WOTC program?
Contact Rockerbox today to learn more and request a free assessment.