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Work-Share Program

The Wisconsin Work-Share program avoids layoffs, allowing employers to retain trained staff during times of reduced business activity and employees to maintain benefits and remain employed.

Are you an:  Employer?  Employee?

  • Employers - learn about Work-Share eligibility, how to apply for a Work-Share plan, and more.
  • Employees - learn how Work-Share works, what steps you should take, and more.

General Information

Employers apply for a Work-Share plan and have it approved by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Once in place, the Work-Share program benefits both employers and employees. Employers should apply for a Work-Share plan when they need to reduce hours for two or more employees between 10% and 60% of the normal hours per week for each employee.

Work-Share Facts

  • Wisconsin's Work-Share program has helped avoid over 13,000 layoffs.
  • Since October 2022, the Work-Share program has helped avoid over 3,000 layoffs.
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were over 1,000 Work-Share plans.
  • Employees in an approved Work-Share plan will not need to register for work or conduct work searches.
  • The Work-Share program is also called Short-Time Compensation (STC).