WAGES Act of 2026

The WAGES Act of 2026 creates a new tax credit to encourage employers to hire and train workers through registered apprenticeship programs. Eligible businesses can claim a credit equal to 50% of qualified wages and program expenses for each apprentice, with specific caps on the amount that can be claimed per quarter. The bill also clarifies that certain awards given to apprentices, such as those for completing training milestones, are treated as non-taxable employee achievement awards rather than taxable income. These changes are designed to provide financial incentives for companies to invest in on-the-job training while expanding career pathways for workers without four-year degrees.