The Empire Zones Program is a State Program that provides employers with an income tax credit (Wage Tax Credit) if they hire workers who meet certain eligibility requirements. If an individual is eligible, an employer may benefit by hiring them because the employer may take a higher tax credit, $3,000 per qualified employee, over the four-year base period level. Employers may take a lower $1,500 tax credit per employee regardless of the employee's targeted status as long as they are over the four-year base period level. In order to help determine whether or not an employee is eligible, please have the employee complete the New York State Department of Labor Empire Zone Eligibility Guide.

Please note: Participation in the program is voluntary. All information is confidential. If the employee wishes to answer these questions it will not affect their ability to obtain a position with the employer or affect their current employment. The Empire Zone Program is designed to encourage businesses to create new jobs and invest in their current communities.

Targeted Worker Categories

If you think that any of the statements below may apply to your employee, please download the Targeted Worker Categories form and complete the two screening forms.

(Please see targeted workers categories form for a complete description of each category)

• Employee has received public assistance within the past two years.
  
• Qualified Veteren who has received welfare
  
• Ex-Felon
  
• High Risk Youth
  
• Vocational Rehabilitation
  
• Qualified Summer Youth
  
• Qualified Food Stamp Recipient (18-24)
  
• Economically disadvantaged family member (see poverty income guidelines table) Use 100%)
  
• Dislocated worker- employee is presently receiving or is eligible to receive benefits under the Workforce Investment Act
  
• Qualified SSI recipient (has received SSI within the past two months)
  
  

Screening Forms

Empire Zones Eligibility Determination for Employer Tax Credits

Attachment A- Proof of Eligibility to be Furnished by Employee

Once all forms are completed, please mail to:

The New York State Department of Labor

Attention: Matt Gratton

Capital/Northern Regional Office

175 Central Avenue

Albany, NY 12206

For any questions about these forms, Labor issues, etc. please call the New York State Department of Labor at 1-800-HIRE-992 (1-800-447-3992)

Complete list of forms:

New York State Department of Labor Empire Zone Eligibility Guide

Targeted Worker Categories form

Poverty income guidelines table (Use 100%)

Empire Zones Eligibility Determination for Employer Tax Credits

Attachment A- Proof of Eligibility to be Furnished by Employee

Any Questions???

1-800-HIRE-992