Assemblyman
Dov
Hikind
Hikind
Spring 2009
In support of our brothers and sisters affected by abuse
within our communities
Program will include Divrei Chizuk and Tehillim
for victims and their families
Participants will include:
There will be separate seating for this event
718-853-9616
The Postal Service’s response was immediate and positive. The Blythbourne Station will remain open on Sundays, with Saturday closure one of the options being considered.
Assemblyman Hikind commended Postmaster General Chiossone and the USPS for seeking alternate solutions. “I am gratified that the Post Office has reversed its previous determination, and I applaud them for choosing to act in the best interests of the community.”
The matter has been referred to the Hate Crimes Unit of the NYPD.
“Even with an increased police presence in our communities, these vandals persist in their vile ways,” the Assemblyman said. “Every hateful act they get away with only serves to embolden them and makes them more likely to continue committing these kinds of crime.”
Assemblyman Hikind urges anyone with information to contact the 66th Precinct at 718-851-5611.
As the Gaza offensive entered its 10th day, Assemblyman Hikind sponsored a rally in conjunction with the Rambam School of Long Island outside the United Nations to show solidarity with Israel.
The Assemblyman called on then-President-elect Obama to break his silence and issue a statement in condemning terrorism. “Mr. Obama must do what is morally right and continue his predecessor’s policy of unwavering support for Israel.”
As the April 15 deadline to file taxes for 2008 approaches, Assemblyman Hikind is encouraging working families who are eligible to take advantage of the Earned Income Tax Credit. This credit, which is offered by the federal government, New York State, and New York City, can total as much as $6,512 for tax year 2008.
The EITC is a tax credit for people who do not earn high incomes. It can help eligible taxpayers lower their taxes or claim a refund. The income limitations are as follows:
$38,646 ($41,646 if married filing jointly) with two or more children
$33,995 ($36,995 if married filing jointly) with one child
$12,880 ($15,880 if married filing jointly) with no children
During filing season, January 1 through April 15, the IRS offers free tax help. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) sites are located at many schools, public libraries, community centers and churches. Call 1-800-829-1040 to find the nearest assistance site.
To qualify for the New York State and New York City credits, you must have claimed the federal credit for 2008.
For assistance, forms or instructions, go to www.nystax.gov, or call 1-800-462-8100.
Due to the high unemployment rate in New York State, an additional 13 weeks of federally funded emergency benefits will be available for individuals who have exhausted their regular unemployment insurance benefits and are still unemployed. In addition to the previous 13 week extension passed in June and a second, 7 week extension, passed in November, this will total 33 weeks of extended benefits.
New Yorkers will be able to start claiming the additional 13 weeks on February 22, 2009. Benefits must be claimed no later than for the week ending March 29, 2009.
About 10 million people experience the devastating effects of identity theft each year. These victims deserve better protection to combat this crime and reverse the damages. Assemblyman Hikind supported a new law enhancing privacy protection and increasing assistance to identity theft victims.
“Identity theft is an invasive personal crime that is becoming more prevalent,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “Modern conveniences like online shopping and debit card purchases make individuals more vulnerable. These new protections will give victims peace of mind knowing help is out there.”
The law prohibits Social Security numbers on employee ID badges, ID cards, time cards or open access files; bans “skimmer” deviceswhich can obtain personal information from credit cardswhere there is intent to commit identity theft; helps victims repair their financial and credit history through the NYS Consumer Protection Board’s newly created Identity Theft Program; compensates victims by giving restitution for time spent fixing the damage; and builds on a 2006 law allowing consumers to block access to their credit files.
Tips to prevent identity theft:
Don’t carry extra credit cards, your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport in your wallet or purse
Never keep your pin number on or near your ATM card
Opt out of preapproved solicitations for credit or insurance by calling 1-888-6OPTOUT or visit www.optoutprescreen.com
Never give personal information to anyone that initiates contact with you
Update your computer anti-virus programs and use a secure browser for online transactions
Don’t download files or click on hyperlinks from strangers
Cancel unused credit cards and bank accounts
Destroy unwanted documents that contain personal information, including statements, receipts and credit card offers
Order your free annual consumer credit report and review it for suspicious activity by going to www.annualcreditreport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228.