About pay per started application (PPSA)

PPSA helps you focus your budget on real results by only paying for started applications from interested jobseekers. Use PPSA to fill roles faster, reach higher-intent candidates and optimise performance.

What is a started application?

A started application is when a jobseeker takes an action to begin the application process. This may include:

• Clicking an apply button (for example, Apply now or Apply on company site)

• Opening a link to start or continue an application

• Using a chatbot or QR code to begin applying

• Scheduling an interview when that step replaces the application form

Check Indeed's Terms of Service for full details.

• Only pay for started applications, not clicks.

• Reach higher-intent candidates.

• Optimise performance with dynamic bidding.

• Fill roles faster and more efficiently.

• Promote jobs across multiple platforms.

• Manage campaigns easily through one dashboard.

Pay for performance.

• Only pay for started applications, not just clicks. 

• Adjusts bids in real time to help deliver more started applications.

Fill your roles efficiently.

• Focus on candidates who show a stronger interest.

• Manage campaigns through one dashboard.

Meet your recruitment objectives.

• Promote your roles across Indeed, Glassdoor and the Trusted Media Network.

• Tailor objective-based campaigns to meet your hiring goals.

Who can use PPSA?

• PPSA is available for most Sponsored Jobs.

• You can use PPSA if you:

  • Post jobs directly on Indeed or through your career site or Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

  • Sponsor your jobs as a paid campaign.

How do you turn PPSA on?

• Your Sponsored Jobs campaign will automatically use PPSA.

• With PPSA, you only pay when a jobseeker starts an application for your job, not when they click your ad.

Understanding PPSA campaign budgets

• PPSA uses a live auction model, so costs depend on candidate demand.

• Your budget may be spent faster or slower as Indeed drives more started applications.

• We recommend working with your Indeed rep to set a budget that supports strong results.

• You may see a minimum budget per job for objective-based campaigns.

• These minimums help make sure budgets are high enough to deliver more started applications.

• Budget minimums vary by market, so speak to your Indeed representative if you've got any questions.

Question: Can I opt out of PPSA?

Answer: No. Qualifying jobs are automatically enrolled in PPSA pricing. You cannot switch back to pay-per-click (PPC).

Question: Will I be charged for applications started through Smart Sourcing?

Answer: No. Applications from Smart Sourcing outreach are not charged to your PPSA sponsorship budget.