North Hempstead Coronavirus: Senior Taxi And E-Check Fees Waived

NORTH HEMPSTEAD, NY — The Town of North Hempstead announced Monday that fees for these town programs will be waived during the new coronavirus pandemic: e-check tax payments and the senior taxi program. The decision comes as residents are asked to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by staying home.

"We recognize the importance of doing everything we can to protect the health and safety of our residents and employees, and we also want to do all we can to simplify their lives during this tumultuous time," Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth said in a statement.

For area seniors, the town's Project Independence taxi is a common way to get groceries or attend medical appointments at a deeply discounted rate. The town will now pay all ride costs and tip fees through June 1 to cut down on cash and credit card handling.

“The health and well-being of our seniors is of paramount importance," Bosworth said. 'The town will gladly pay for these rides."

In addition, town officials hope to keep more residents at home by cutting out the fee to pay online taxes with an e-check. The waiver for e-check payments pulled directly from an individuals bank account runs through May 11.

There is still a fee for paying taxes online with a credit card, which the town does not receive.

"Paying your taxes from the safety of your home will help prevent the spread of coronavirus," Charles Berman, North Hempstead's tax receiver, said.

For more information on tax payments or Project Independence call (516) 869-6311.