Hawley says NYS very slow in getting out tax refunds

Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) recently penned a letter to Amanda Hiller, the acting tax commissioner in New York state, regarding an unusual number of constituents in his district claiming they have not received their tax returns yet.

Hawley noted that this growing issue is not isolated but rather part of a broader pattern affecting hardworking families across his district who rely on timely refunds to meet everyday expenses. As the cost of living continues to rise, delays of this nature only add unnecessary financial pressure on residents who have fulfilled their obligations on time.

“We have been receiving many phone calls, emails and Facebook comments from constituents stating they have filed their tax refunds over two months ago and still have not received their state tax refunds,” Hawley said. “What makes this more concerning is most of these individuals received their federal tax refunds within 10 days after filing.”

Hawley emphasized that the disparity between federal and state processing times raises serious questions about efficiency and accountability within the state’s tax system. He called on the Department of Taxation and Finance to provide clear answers and immediate solutions to ensure taxpayers are not left waiting indefinitely.

“Citizens of New York state are expected to file their taxes by a certain date, but the state has neglected to do its part by distributing refunds in a timely manner,” Hawley added. “These delays are causing financial strain for the taxpayers.”

Hawley hopes his letter will, at minimum, facilitate communication so his constituents will have more information than what has merely been posted on the state’s website.