Choose Topeka -
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Choose Topeka program is open to all employers located in Shawnee County, Kansas. and more than 50 companies have participated by offering relocation incentives.

Employers typically offer incentives when recruiting for positions that are difficult to fill locally due to specialized skills, education, or experience requirements. Because of this, we are often not aware that an incentive is being offered until after a candidate has been selected and the employer submits the required documentation.

We encourage interested candidates to explore current job opportunities and apply directly through our regional job board, Career Coach: 
👉 https://gotopeka.lightcastcc.com/?radius=&region=Shawnee%20County 

No. The Choose Topeka program is employment-based, and securing qualifying employment with a Shawnee County employer is required to receive an incentive.

• Boomerang residents and transitioning military members must secure employment with a minimum salary of $50,000 to be eligible.
• All other applicants must be hired by an employer that is offering a relocation incentive as part of their compensation package.

A “boomerang” is an individual who previously lived in Shawnee County, moved away, and is now interested in returning to live and work in the community.

No. Through the employer match program, the full incentive amount is determined and paid by the employer.

Choose Topeka reimburses the employer for 50% of the incentive amount after the employee has successfully lived and worked in Shawnee County for one year.

In most cases, relocation incentives can be used at the employee’s discretion, including for housing-related expenses such as a down payment.

However, specific terms may vary by employer. We recommend confirming any restrictions directly with the employer offering the incentive.

No. The Choose Topeka program is designed to support new relocations to Shawnee County. Individuals who have already moved to the community prior to receiving a qualifying job offer and relocation incentive are not eligible.

While Choose Topeka is not a job placement agency, we provide tools to support your job search. You can create a profile, explore opportunities, and apply for positions through our regional job board, Career Coach: 👉 https://gotopeka.lightcastcc.com/?radius=&region=Shawnee%20County

If your new employer has offered you a relocation incentive package, no addional action is needed from you to initiate the process. 

If your employer has not offered an incentive, we are happy to discuss the program with them. However, participation is voluntary, and incentives are not guaranteed.

Remote workers are only eligible if they are employed by a Shawnee County-based company and meet all other program requirementns.

All participants – regardless of work arrangement – must relocate to and residei in Shawnee County, Kansas to qulify.

Incentive amounts vary by employer and position, based on factors such as job type, experience level, and hiring needs.

Payment timing is determined by the employer. Some employers may provide funds upfront, while others may distribute the incentive after a defined employment period.

For most applicants, no separate application is required upfront. The process typically begins after you accept a job offer with a participating employer, who then submits the necessary documentation.

However, boomerang applicants and transitioning military members are required to complete an inquire form on the Choose Topeka website to begin the process.

There is no fixed deadline. The program operates on an ongoing basis, depending on employer participation and available funding.

For additional questions about the Choose Topeka program, please contact the Choose Topeka team through the Choose Topeka website.