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Moving to a new city may be an easy cash grab.
Topeka, Kansas has announced a new relocation incentive program where eligible folks who pack up and head to the Midwest can score up to $15,000 in cold, hard cash. You’ll have to do some work, though, as the program — called Choose Topeka — is tied to Shawnee County employers.
As with all free funds, the capital of Kansas has some requirements before it doles out the cash. The city is urging folks to take a few steps before even applying.
For example, anyone who fills out the form must secure a job with a Shawnee County employer to even be considered eligible. But be sure to check with your new job before making any moves, as not every employer offers relocation incentives — participation is voluntary and position-specific.
The historic city — which has a population of 178,941 — said that the relocation program is typically reserved for “hard-to-fill roles” which likely require specialized skills, education or experience. However, the program is open to all employers, with over 50 companies participating today.
In order to be eligible for the moolah, you must meet four requirements, according to the website:
- Proof of salary from a Shawnee County employer (minimum $50,000)
- Proof of home purchase in Shawnee County
- Application must be received prior to permanent relocation
- Must be a legal US citizen or have a status of a legal alien
The green is limited to one person per household — so an entire family will not be able to claim more than $15,000.
The county also has reserved cash for what it calls “boomerang” applicants. These are individuals who previously lived in Shawnee County, moved away, but now interested in returning to live and work in the community.
Kansas is one of the most historic states in the US as Topeka delivered the landmark Brown v. Board of Education. The Supreme Court’s 1954 milestone decision ruled separating children in public schools on the basis of race was unconstitutional.
In addition to its rich history, the city — located about 60 miles due west of Kansas City — has an interesting art scene where Trip Advisor deemed Truckhenge — a “Stonehenge-like” travel destination — a must-see.
Created by Ron Lessman beginning in 2000, the outdoor grassroots art installation has six antique trucks planted firmly in the ground, nose-first in a circular arrangement. The installation is on the Lessman family farm between Tecumseh and Topeka, Kansas.
The town also has award-winning beer as the Blind Tiger Brewery and Restaurant took home the 2012 World Beer Cup Gold Award for Maibock beer. The famed spot has also won 15 gold, silver or bronze medals at the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup — dubbed the Olympics of Beer.
So, if you’re having second thoughts about your city or just waiting on a reason to scram, Topeka’s relocation program might be your ticket out.