The state has a new law that will pay workers to move there and work remotely. Governor Phil Scott signed the legislation on Wednesday. Eligible workers can get up to $5,000 a year, not to exceed $10,000 over two years, through the state’s new remote worker grant program. The money can be used on qualified expenses, including costs to relocate, necessary computer equipment and software, internet access and co-working memberships.
Vermont has a small and aging population, according to Joan Goldstein, commissioner of economic development for Vermont.
“We recognize the need to recruit people to the state, and this is one of those efforts.”
To be eligible, a worker must be a full-time employee for an out-of-state business, work primarily from home or a co-working space in Vermont, and become a full-time resident on or after January 1, 2019. Interested workers better act fast. Funds will be distributed on a first come, first served basis, and there are annual limits to the grants. For 2019, total grants cannot exceed $125,000. The cap increases in 2020 to $250,000, then drops back down to $125,000 in 2021.
Government data also shows people are moving less than they have in the past. Companies have been getting more generous and creative to compete for talent. Some have been increasing pay and changing payroll practices, while others are beefing up benefits, like offering help paying down student loan debts and flexible schedules.