New York volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers will soon be eligible for a significantly larger state income tax credit under legislation signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Oct. 17.
The new law, A.6790-A/S.6233-A, increases the annual personal income tax credit for eligible volunteers from $200 to $800 for individuals and from $400 to $1,600 for married couples. According to the governor's office, the expanded credit will take effect beginning with the 2027 tax year, allowing eligible New Yorkers to claim the benefit when they file their taxes in 2028.
"Keeping New York safe and affordable is my highest priority. Today, I'm proud to sign into law a bill that recognizes the sacrifices that all volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers make,"
Hochul said in a statement.
Tax credit aimed at supporting volunteer first responders
The legislation is intended to provide additional financial support for volunteers who provide emergency services in communities across New York while helping local departments recruit and retain members.
Under the governor's description of 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.
The New York State Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Association thanked Hochul and state lawmakers for approving the measure. Thea ssociation is a nonprofit trade organization representing volunteer, community-based and nonprofit emergency medical services agencies and responders across New York.
Association President Henry Ehrhardt said volunteer ambulance workers respond to emergencies at all hours, complete extensive training to earn certification and pursue continuing education to maintain their skills.
Steven Kroll, chair of the association's legislative committee, said the increased credit provides meaningful financial support for the families of volunteers who serve their communities without pay.
"Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers play a critical role in emergency response systems throughout New York," Kroll said.
State continues efforts to bolster volunteer emergency services
The tax credit expansion is part of a broader effort by the state to support volunteer emergency responders.
According to the governor's office, New York has also authorized local governments to offer volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers a property tax exemption of up to 10%, established a firefighter training stipend program that has supported more than 5,500 firefighters completing foundational training, authorized volunteer departments to bill insurance providers for emergency medical services, and invested in the Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment (V-FIRE) grant program to help departments upgrade facilities and purchase equipment.
The Firefighters Association of the State of New York also welcomed the legislation.
President Donald Farrell said the larger credit recognizes the commitment of volunteers and could help encourage more people to join local fire departments.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY boosts tax credit for volunteer firefighters, ambulance workers
