Pro-choice activists criticized the episode for making use of mainstream anti-abortion arguments.

The episode received mixed reviews, with commentators mainly criticizing the episode for recycling jokes.

Despite this, he criticized the episode for proving the point that the show could not survive without Michael.

Reaction to the episode by news media organizations was extremely negative and caused controversy, criticizing the episode for its portrayal of domestic violence.

Zoromski also criticized the episode for being unrealistic, as Michael dealt with the problem rather than Corporate.

Variety criticized the episode for "using reworked concepts", but praised the production and noted its potential.

Other figures associated with The Simpsons have publicly criticized the episode.

Vitaris heavily criticized the episode as "a retread of 'Irresistible'".

"The Incentive" received average reviews from critics with multiple critics criticizing the episode for recycling storylines.

New York writer Chris Blanche criticized the episode for its lack of heart.