---
title: "Hire Smarter and Save: What Landscapers Need to Know About the Work Opportunity Tax Credit"
description: The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal incentive for businesses that hire workers from specific target groups who often face barriers to employment. If your landscaping business hires someone who qualifies, you may receive a tax credit of up to $9,600 per employee.
---

<https://www.davidroofcpa.com/david-roof-cpa-blog>

# [Hire Smarter and Save: What Landscapers Need to Know About the Work Opportunity Tax Credit](https://www.davidroofcpa.com/david-roof-cpa-blog/hire-smarter-and-save-what-landscapers-need-to-know-about-the-work-opportunity-tax-credit)

 Written by [David Roof](https://www.davidroofcpa.com/david-roof-cpa-blog/author/david-roof) | Aug 13, 2025 1:50:24 PM

Running a landscaping business takes more than green thumbs — it takes smart hiring and smart tax planning. One powerful way to do both is by taking advantage of the **Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)**.

**What is the WOTC?**  
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal incentive for businesses that hire workers from specific target groups who often face barriers to employment. If your landscaping business hires someone who qualifies, you may receive a **tax credit of up to $9,600 per employee**.

**Who Qualifies?**  
Eligible hires include individuals who are:

- Veterans
- Long-term unemployed
- SNAP (food stamp) recipients
- Ex-felons
- Residents of designated “empowerment zones”
- Youth summer workers (ages 16–17) in urban or rural high-unemployment areas

**Why Landscapers Should Care**  
Landscaping companies often hire seasonal or part-time workers — many of whom may fall into these categories. You could be eligible for thousands in tax savings each year just by completing a couple of forms.

**How Much Can You Save?**  
The exact credit depends on the employee’s category, hours worked, and wages paid. For example:

- **Veteran with disability**: up to $9,600
- **Long-term TANF recipient**: up to $9,000 over two years
- **Youth summer hires**: up to $1,200

**How to Claim the Credit**

1. **Pre-screen** the employee using IRS Form 8850 on or before the job offer date
2. **Submit** the form to your state workforce agency within 28 days of the hire
3. **Track** the employee’s hours and wages
4. **Claim** the credit using IRS Form 5884 on your tax return

**Tip:** Keep good hiring records and work with a tax professional to make sure you don’t miss deadlines or documentation.

**Bottom Line:**  
If you're hiring, make it count. The WOTC is an easy way for landscapers to reduce their tax bill and support meaningful employment. It's a win-win for your business and your community.

 

[View full post](https://www.davidroofcpa.com/david-roof-cpa-blog/hire-smarter-and-save-what-landscapers-need-to-know-about-the-work-opportunity-tax-credit)

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