Empire State Newspaper & Broadcast Media Jobs Program
Save jobs. Earn refundable tax credits. Applications are now open!
After You Apply: Stay Responsive
Applications are logged in the order they are received through the portal. If qualified applications exceed available funding, awards may be prorated. If applications exceed double available funding, applications may shift to a first-come, first-served basis.
- Monitor your email daily for correspondence from Empire State Development (ESD).
- If ESD requests clarification or additional documentation, you typically have 10 business days to respond.
- Failure to respond within that window may reset your position in line.
- Delayed responses or incomplete documentation could jeopardize your funding opportunity.
Given anticipated demand, we strongly encourage members to apply as early as possible and remain attentive until Certificates of Tax Credit are issued.
What Happens After Approval?
If your application is approved, Empire State Development will issue a Certificate of Tax Credit. This document authorizes the exact credit amount you may claim on your 2026 New York State tax return.
Step 1: Receive Your Certificate
Certificates are expected to be issued after the portal closes and all applications are reviewed. Current estimates suggest issuance in early June 2026.
Step 2: File the Appropriate NYS Tax Form
The credit is not a direct payment from ESD. It becomes refundable through your New York State tax filing. Attach your Certificate of Tax Credit when submitting:
- Form CT-665 – For corporations (see instructions)
- Form IT-665 – For all other eligible filers (see instructions)
Step 3: Claim the Refundable Credit
The total credit amount cannot exceed $320,000 per eligible business. Once properly filed, the credit is refunded through the NYS tax system.
View NYS Tax Department Guidance →
Members should consult their tax professional to ensure proper filing and compliance.
What the Credit Covers
- New Job Creation: $5,000 per net new full-time job (up to $20,000 annually).
- Existing Job Retention: 50% of annual wages per eligible employee (up to $50,000 in wages).
- Annual Cap: Up to $300,000 per media business.
- Program Runs Through: December 31, 2027.
Why This Matters
- Refundable tax credit — real cash value.
- Individual publication titles may be eligible.
- Specifically structured for New York news publishers.
- Strong demand anticipated statewide.
Eligibility Snapshot
- Print or broadcast media operating predominantly in New York State.
- Independently owned.
- Must have carried media liability insurance for one continuous year prior to application.
- Print publications may qualify even with up to a 20% reduction in circulation or FTEs over five years.
Application Process
- Applications are currently open.
- Submit directly through Empire State Development.
- Provide payroll and employment documentation.
- Allow verification through NYS Tax and Labor.
- Credits may be prorated if applications exceed funding.
Ask NYPA for Help Read the Official Program
NYPA cannot provide tax or legal advice. Members should consult their advisors and the official ESD guidance.