Provides corporation business tax credits and gross income tax credits to small business employers and farm employers for increases in certain mandatory employer contributions.
The legislation is expected to have a positive impact on small businesses in New Jersey, particularly those meeting the criteria of employing fewer than 25 individuals and generating under $1 million in annual net receipts. By capping the tax credit at $12,000 annually for each qualifying employer, the bill seeks to provide substantial financial relief over a defined period, specifically for the taxable years from January 1, 2020, through January 1, 2030. This initiative could lead to increased business stability and job retention in the state, addressing challenges faced by small businesses and farm operations.
Assembly Bill A102 aims to enhance support for small business employers and farm employers by offering corporation business tax (CBT) and gross income tax (GIT) credits for increases in mandatory employer contributions. Specifically, the bill allows these entities to receive tax credits equivalent to the difference between their actual mandatory contributions for workers' compensation insurance, Temporary Disability Insurance, and Unemployment Insurance for the current tax year and what they spent for the same contributions in the preceding year. This support is designed to alleviate financial burdens on small employers, encouraging them to retain employees and comply with state regulations.
Despite the potential benefits, there are concerns regarding the limitations of the bill. Critics argue that the eligibility criteria may be too restrictive, leaving many small businesses outside the scope of assistance. Additionally, the fact that the tax credits cannot exceed a significant percentage of overall tax liability may inhibit the bill's effectiveness in providing adequate relief. The requirement for small business and farm employers to submit applications in a specific format as determined by the Division of Taxation adds another level of complexity that could dissuade some entrepreneurs from seeking the available credits.