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Gov. Kathy Hochul recently signed legislation that increases the personal tax credit for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.
State Sen. George Borrello, R-Sunset Bay, was a co-sponsor of the legislation.
"Our volunteer first responders are there when we need them most, whether it’s the middle of the night, a holiday or in treacherous weather," Borrello said. "They sacrifice time with their families, spend countless hours training and often put their own safety at risk to help our neighbors. And they do it all without a paycheck. Volunteer fire departments and ambulance services are especially important in rural communities like ours. They also provide tremendous savings to taxpayers. According to a study by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY), volunteer firefighting saves New Yorkers $4.7 billion a year. That’s an extraordinary contribution, both to public safety and to taxpayers.
A.6790-A/S.6233-A increases the annual personal income tax credit from $200 to $800 for individuals and from $400 to $1,600 for married couples. The increased credit will apply beginning in tax year 2027, allowing eligible New Yorkers to claim the benefit when filing their taxes in 2028. Under the new law, eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers may claim either the increased state income tax credit or a qualifying local property tax exemption.
"This larger tax credit is a well-deserved acknowledgment of their service and will also help departments address the challenges of recruiting and retaining volunteers," Borrello said. ". I’ll continue pushing for additional benefits that recognize the time, commitment and personal sacrifices these volunteers make in serving their communities.I want to thank bill sponsors Senator Monica Martinez and Assemblywoman Karen McMahon, my colleagues who supported the legislation and Governor Hochul for signing it into law. This is an important step toward supporting the people who give so much to keep our communities safe."