The NYPD and Correction Department have paid an ad firm $12 million since 2008 to attract new applicants — even though neither agency plans to hire any time soon.

The NYPD has also agreed to pay up to $42 million to the Bernard Hodes Group over the next five years, despite there being 59,046 candidates who have passed the police test. The mayor’s latest budget calls for as many as 19,000 fewer city employees, including thousands fewer cops. Police spokesman Paul Browne insisted recruitment is still needed.