Addabbo legislation to create income tax check-off fund for veterans' service organizations approved by Senate Veterans Committee

Calling it one step closer for a “concrete way to give back to those who have given of themselves in service to our nation,” NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. announced the recent committee approval of his legislation (S.3675) which would enable New Yorkers to check off a box on their personal income tax returns to assist veterans’ service organizations.

Addabbo, who serves as the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, said, “My proposal would establish a veterans’ service organization fund, which would be supported through the generosity of  New York residents who decide that they want to contribute to veterans’ groups when they file their state personal income tax returns. I am grateful my colleagues on the Senate Veterans Committee have joined with me in advancing this initiative.”

Under the bill, New York residents would be able to choose a new income tax “check off” box on their returns to voluntarily support groups that provide services to veterans. The contributions would be held in a fund maintained by the State Comptroller and the State Division of Taxation and Finance, and monies would be provided to veterans’ service organizations to enable them to better assist former military members in accessing necessary benefits and programs. The contributions would be gifts and not reduce the amount of tax owed by check-off program participants.

“Veterans are often in need of a variety of services when they return home, but do not always know where to turn to find out about an array of programs that exist to help them,” Addabbo said. “Veterans’ service organizations serve as a key liaison between veterans and appropriate government agencies, and their efforts are vital to ensuring that our returning servicemen and women gain access to the health, employment, education and other services available to them.”

Other state check-off programs in New York State include those that support breast cancer research, prostate cancer research, wildlife and conservation efforts, Alzheimer’s disease services, and state veterans’ cemeteries.

“I think it’s fitting that New York taxpayers be provided with the opportunity to voluntarily support brave and selfless men and women who have put their lives on hold at home and their lives at risk overseas – all in service to our country,” said Addabbo. “By helping veterans’ service organizations expand their programs, we will be thanking our veterans in a truly meaningful manner.”

The bill’s next step towards full Senate passage is consideration by the Senate Finance Committee. In the Assembly, the legislation is under review by the Ways and Means Committee.