Oklahoma Expands Key Incentive Program
Oklahoma’s Quality Jobs Program now allows for leased or contracted employees for incentive
Oklahoma’s Quality Jobs Program (OQJP) is a critical incentive for businesses looking to expand, offering quarterly cash rebates—up to 5% of newly created taxable payroll—for up to 10 years. Over the years, QJIP has allocated $1.2 billion to more than 920 companies.
Now, with SB586, the program gets even more inclusive by ensuring leased or contracted employees count as "new direct jobs," making it easier for businesses to qualify for incentives. This refined definition becomes effective on November 1, 2025.
SNAPSHOT
Incentives to Qualifying Businesses Making New Payroll Investments of $2.5 Million or More
Oklahoma's Quality Jobs Program has already awarded over $1.2 billion in wage rebates
New legislation makes it easier for businesses to qualify for incentives by recognizing leased and contracted employees as "new direct jobs."
Up to 5% cash back on new payroll for 10 years
Mark your calendars: On November 1, 2025, new rules take effect, making Oklahoma’s business-friendly policies even more accessible!
Application for OQJP is open.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Industry Requirement: The company must operate within a qualifying basic industry in Oklahoma.
Payroll Threshold: The company must achieve $2.5 million in new annualized payroll for full-time employees within its first 12 quarters in the program. Certain industries, such as food processing and research & development, may qualify with a lower threshold of $1.5 million.
Health Insurance Coverage: The company must offer basic health insurance to employees working 30 hours or more per week, with employees paying no more than 50% of the premium cost.
Average Wage Requirement: The company must meet an average wage threshold based on the county where the jobs are located. The maximum required wage is $42,889, but companies in Opportunity Zones are exempt from this requirement.
Out-of-State Sales: Some companies may need to achieve 75% out-of-state sales to qualify.
Location Considerations: Businesses locating within Superfund sites or the National Priorities List may qualify without a payroll threshold.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
10-year Cash Incentive: The program provides quarterly cash payments up to 5% of new payrolls for up to 10 years.
CONNECT WITH THE HICKEY’S OKLAHOMA INCENTIVES TEAM
The Hickey & Associates incentives team has advised companies navigating the Oklahoma’s Quality Jobs Program (OQJP). Application for OQJP is open! Contact us for more specifics, including eligibility criteria, application details, and funding requirements.
If you’d like our support throughout the application process, we are here to help.