Directs the department of taxation and finance to create and implement an online program which will enable New York state taxpayers to electronically file income tax returns free of charge

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Rosenthal

Bill A 1883 allows New York taxpayers to file income tax returns online for free, simplifying the process and reducing costs, promoting greater tax compliance.

REFERRED TO WAYS AND MEANS

Bill Overview

Bill Number: A 1883

Title: Directs the Department of Taxation and Finance to create and implement an online program which will enable New York State taxpayers to electronically file income tax returns free of charge.

Status: Referred to Ways and Means

Introduced: January 14, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of Bill A 1883 is to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of the income tax filing process for New York State taxpayers. By establishing a free online program for electronic filing, the bill seeks to simplify the tax return process, reduce barriers for taxpayers, and promote greater compliance with tax laws.

Key Provisions

Creation of Online Program: The bill mandates the Department of Taxation and Finance to develop an online platform that allows taxpayers to file their income tax returns electronically without any associated costs.

Implementation Timeline: While the bill does not specify a timeline for implementation, it emphasizes the need for the program to be user-friendly and accessible to all taxpayers.

Support for Taxpayers: The program is designed to assist individuals and families in filing their taxes efficiently, potentially reducing the need for paid tax preparation services.

Impact

Who Will Be Affected:

Taxpayers: The primary beneficiaries will be New York State residents who file income tax returns, particularly those who may struggle with the costs associated with tax preparation.
Department of Taxation and Finance: The department will be responsible for the development and maintenance of the online filing system, which may require additional resources and staffing.

Potential Benefits:

Cost Savings: Taxpayers will save money by not having to pay for tax preparation services.
Increased Compliance: Simplifying the filing process may lead to higher rates of tax compliance among residents.
Environmental Impact: An online filing system could reduce paper usage, contributing to environmental sustainability efforts.

Legislative Process

Current Status: As of January 14, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Ways and Means Committee for further consideration.

Related Bills: This bill is related to several prior-session bills (A 945, A 6766, A 5203, A 825, A 1555, A 599) and has a companion bill in the Senate (S 5197), indicating ongoing legislative interest in improving tax filing processes.

Conclusion

Bill A 1883 represents a significant step towards modernizing the tax filing experience for New York State residents. By providing a free online filing option, the bill aims to make tax compliance easier and more accessible, ultimately benefiting taxpayers across the state. Further developments will be monitored as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Bill