(a) For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2021, a taxpayer who is a qualified employer subject to the tax imposed under the provisions of the Kansas income tax act shall be allowed a credit against the tax for compensation paid during the taxable year to a qualified employee in the first through fifth consecutive years of employment. Except as otherwise provided, the credit shall be in an amount equal to 10% of the compensation paid.

(b) The credit shall not exceed $15,000 annually for each qualified employee.

(c) The credit shall be applied against the taxpayer’s income tax liability after all other credits allowed under the income tax act. The credit shall not be refundable and may not be carried forward.

(d) No credit shall be claimed for compensation paid to a qualified employee after the fifth year of employment of the qualified employee.