Governor Hochul signs legislation quadrupling New York State tax credit for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation to quadruple New York State's personal income tax credit for eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, with aims of providing financial relief to first responders who dedicate their time to protecting communities across the state.

The legislation increases the annual personal income tax credit from $200 to $800 for individuals and from $400 to $1,600 for married couples.

According to Governor Hochul’s office, 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.

“These brave New Yorkers put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors, often sacrificing time with their families and loved ones,” the Governor said. “This tax credit puts more money back in their pockets and shows our appreciation for the lifesaving services they provide every day.”

The Governor has previously signed legislation allowing local governments to offer volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers a property tax exemption of up to 10 percent, established a first-in-the-state 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 critical firefighting equipment.

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