Albany, NY- State Senator Lee Zeldin (R, C, I- Shirley) voted this week in favor of a measure to strengthen the rights of taxpayers.
Currently many constituents are experiencing excessive delays of up to two months between the time they file their returns and the time refunds are received from the state Department of Taxation and Finance. This legislation, S.2631, sponsored by Senator Carl L. Marcellino, would require the State to pay tax refunds within 30 days of a return being filed.
“This is common sense legislation. It’s shocking that in this day and age we have to pass a bill to enforce the rights of taxpayers. Our taxpayers who are following the law and filing their tax returns on time should have the right to expect a prompt refund,” said Senator Zeldin.
Traditionally, the state Department of Taxation and Finance has held returns requesting refunds until April, even if taxpayers filed returns in mid-February. This legislation requires tax refunds to be paid within 30 days of the receipt of a taxpayer’s return, unless there is a discrepancy in the return. In those cases, the department would provide written notice to the taxpayer and a date when the discrepancy would be resolved. If the state fails to take these steps, it would be liable to pay interest on the refund to the taxpayer.
“I am proud to have voted in favor of this piece of legislation and I hope that it gains passage in the Assembly. In a weak economy, when our families need tax relief the most, refunds should be paid as quickly as possible. From day one, I have promised to be a tireless advocate for the taxpayers,” concluded Senator Zeldin.
