Business Oregon sets October 31 deadline for job creation tax credit applications

Oregon employers expanding their payrolls face an October 31 deadline to apply for the state's new Qualified Jobs Creation Tax Credit for the 2026 tax year. Administered by Business Oregon, the state economic development agency, the program offers a tax credit of $1,000 per qualifying net new job, up to a maximum of $10,000 per taxpayer annually.

Established by the Oregon Legislature through Senate Bill 1507 and amended by House Bill 4084, the incentive applies to companies whose primary operations fall within seven traded-sector categories: advanced manufacturing, bioscience and biotechnology, clean technology, food and beverage processing, forestry and wood products, high technology, and outdoor gear and apparel.

To qualify, positions must pay at least 150% of the local minimum wage. Eligibility is determined by comparing average annual covered employment between July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025, and July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026. Applicants must submit payroll calculations and documentation through Business Oregon’s online portal before the end of the month.