Fidelity Bonding Program – Maryland
At Project JumpStart, we understand that the path to employment isn’t always easy—especially for individuals with barriers to hiring, such as a criminal record, past substance use, or limited work history. That’s why we proudly promote the Fidelity Bonding Program, a no-cost resource that helps remove risk and build trust between employers and job seekers.
What is the Fidelity Bonding Program?
The Fidelity Bonding Program provides free, no-deductible insurance coverage to employers who hire individuals considered "at-risk." Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and administered in Maryland by the Division of Workforce Development & Adult Learning, this program offers a $5,000 to $25,000 bond for the first six months of employment—at no cost to the employer or the job seeker.
Why It Matters:
Employers may hesitate to take a chance on someone with a complicated background. The Fidelity Bond acts as a safety net, encouraging businesses to give motivated individuals a second chance—especially those completing programs like JumpStart, where they’ve demonstrated readiness and a strong work ethic.
Who is eligible?
- Justice-involved (formerly incarcerated/returning citizens)
- In recovery from substance use
- Youth or adults with little or no work history
- Veterans
- Individuals with poor credit or who have experienced dishonesty
- And others facing employment barriers
How it works:
Once a job offer is made, the bond can be issued quickly—often within 24 hours. There’s no application or paperwork required from the employer. PJSI staff can guide both the participant and the employer through the process.
Want to Learn More?
If you're an employer interested in hiring a JumpStart graduate, or a job seeker looking for added support in your job search, contact us to learn how the Fidelity Bonding Program can help create new opportunities with confidence.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
At Project JumpStart, we believe in creating win-win opportunities—for both job seekers and employers. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is one more tool that helps make this happen. It rewards employers who hire individuals from target groups that have historically faced barriers to employment—including many of our graduates.
What is the Work Opportunity Tax Credit?
The WOTC is a federal tax credit available to employers who hire and retain individuals from certain target populations. It’s designed to encourage inclusive hiring practices and reduce the barriers that prevent many capable, motivated individuals from getting a fair chance.
Why it matters:
Employers who hire Project JumpStart participants may be eligible to receive $2400 and up to $9,600 in tax credits per qualified hire. The exact amount depends on the target group, wages paid, and hours worked—but even a single hire can generate a meaningful tax benefit.
Who qualifies an employer for the WOTC?
Employers may qualify for the credit when they hire individuals from one or more of the following categories:
- Returning citizens (formerly incarcerated)
- Veterans
- Long-term unemployed
- Recipients of SNAP (food stamps) or TANF
- Designated Community Residents (living in high-poverty areas)
- Individuals with disabilities
- And other groups facing employment barriers
How it works:
The process is simple. Employers submit a WOTC pre-screening form (IRS Form 8850) within 28 days of the hire date. Project JumpStart can help identify eligible candidates and assist employers with the process to ensure everything is filed correctly and on time.
Partnering for Success
By hiring a Project JumpStart graduate, you're not only gaining a skilled and committed worker—you're also opening the door to tax savings that can support your business.
If our employers would like assistance in completing the paperwork for the WOTC, please contact us at hire@jumpstarttraining.org and we can connect you with services.