MA HireNow Program Offers $4,000 Per New Employee Grant

AAFCPAs would like to make clients aware that the Baker-Polito Administration recently announced its “HireNow” Hiring and Training Employer Grant Program, which provides eligible employers with a $4,000 per employee grant. The grant may be used to cover training costs or as a signing bonus for new employees.

The program is open to all Massachusetts employers, including both for-profit and non-profit entities (excluding federal, state, and municipal governments).

Program Details:

• Employer Eligibility: Any Massachusetts employer who is in good standing with Department of Unemployment Assistance and Department of Revenue obligations and is not de-barred by the state is eligible (excluding federal, state, and municipal governments). Applications must be submitted by the employer, not an education or training partner.
• Application Process: Employers must pre-register online at Mass.Gov/HireNow by providing employer information. Following the employee’s hire and 60-day retention period, employers will submit a final application for funding. The Commonwealth will also approve the planned use of the funds (training costs, signing bonus, etc.) when approving the application.
• Eligible Hires: Hires must be made after March 23, 2022, be retained for a minimum of 60 days, and be placed in jobs that are at least 30 hours per week.  New hires need to be Massachusetts residents employed in Massachusetts.  There are also limits on compensation:
  • Minimum eligible compensation: $14.25 / hr (minimum wage)
  • Maximum eligible compensation: $42.50 / hr (~$85K annualized)
• Funding: up to $4,000 for each eligible employee hired, with a limit of $400,000 per employer. Funds will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Employers can learn more about the program and apply at mass.gov/HireNow.