New York to Suspend Driver’s Licenses of Tax Delinquents

New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced a new initiative Monday to encourage individuals who owe significant back taxes to the state to pay their bills by suspending their New York State driver licenses when  their past-due tax liability exceeds $10,000.

The crackdown is the result of legislation introduced as part of the executive budget and signed into law earlier this year.“Our message is simple: tax scofflaws who don’t abide by the same rules as everyone else are not entitled to the same privileges as everyone else,”  Cuomo said in a statement. “These worst offenders are putting an unfair burden on the overwhelming majority of New Yorkers who are hardworking, law-abiding taxpayers. By enacting these additional consequences, we’re providing additional incentives for the state to receive the money it  is owed and we’re keeping scofflaws off the very roads they refuse to  pay their fair share to maintain.”

The new initiative is estimated to increase collections in the Empire State by $26 million this fiscal year and as much as $6 million  annually hereafter.

“It’s in every taxpayer’s best interest to  pay all tax bills in full,” said Commissioner of Taxation and Finance  Thomas H. Mattox. ”If you can’t pay in full, our staff is available to  help you arrange a payment plan that will
satisfy your debt.”

The  New York State Department of Taxation and Finance will send the first round of 16,000 suspension notices to delinquent taxpayers, who have 60  days from the mailing date to arrange payment with the Department. If  the taxpayer fails to do so, the Department of Motor Vehicles will send a second letter
providing an additional 15 days to respond. If the  taxpayer again fails to arrange payment, their license will be suspended until the debt is paid or a payment plan is established.

A  taxpayer who drives while the suspension is in effect is subject to arrest and penalties, Cuomo’s office noted. Those with a suspended  license can, however, apply for a restricted license, which allows them  to drive to work, and return directly home. 

In New York State, 96 percent of taxes are paid by businesses and individuals who voluntarily meet their tax responsibilities, Cuomo’s office noted. The remaining 4  percent is collected through the tax department's audit, collections and criminal investigations programs.