​Clavin Unveils 2020 Vision for Tax Payments

As the decade winds down, acceptance of cryptocurrency and cashless options by merchants and other entities which handle payment transactions is expanding to a point where it has become a way of life for many residents. Envisioning a future that is even more reliant on alternative payment methods, Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin is establishing a committee to explore the prospective implementation of new cutting-edge payment technology, which would facilitate the acceptance of cryptocurrency and popular cashless transaction services such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Venmo and Zelle by governments, including the Town of Hempstead.

Clavin will chair the committee, which will include an array of stakeholders, including elected officials from town, county and state government, as well as members representing business, the technology sector, credit rating agencies, investment experts, community organizations and financial institutions. Joining Clavin at today’s announcement at the Hempstead Town Tax Office was Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti, who will join the committee as a county representative.

“Whether it’s buying a cup of coffee or paying back a friend, instead of digging into their wallets for cash, many people are turning to their smartphones to complete a transaction,” Clavin said. “Taxpayers are utilizing these methods of payment through other outlets, including local businesses, so why not consider implementing this technology at the municipal level? I’m committed to running the Hempstead Tax Office with the efficiency of private sector businesses, and I’m always open to implementing innovative initiatives for the benefit of our taxpayers.”

As Receiver of Taxes, Clavin has introduced an array of convenient payment options, making his office a model for municipal tax offices across the state. Under Clavin’s leadership, the Hempstead Town Tax Office became the first municipal tax office in the state to issue paperless e-Bills. Earlier this year, Clavin also implemented the area’s first municipal “AutoPay” tax feature, whereby taxpayers can choose to have their bills paid automatically at each tax payment period. In addition, to help make the tax payment process easier for all taxpayers, Clavin was the first to introduce an E-Z Pay Drive-Thru, while also offering extended hours, mobile and satellite locations and online credit card and e-Check payments.

“People are working hard to make ends meet and have all kinds of responsibilities,” Clavin said. “As Receiver, I’ve worked to serve all taxpayers to my best ability by making the payment process as simple and convenient as possible. Times have changed, and it’s our job as elected officials to ensure that government proactively addresses the needs of our residents.”
“I’ve co-hosted several community forums with Receiver Don Clavin, and we’ve heard from taxpayers that they’re looking for government operations to run more like successful businesses,” Ferretti said. “With so many people turning to more convenient, cashless options, I’m excited to join with Don to consider new revolutionary payment methods for taxes and potentially for other municipal operations as well.”

Cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, have become more prevalent as digital forms of currency. Ohio recently became the first state to start accepting cryptocurrency for tax payments. Currently, Ohio is accepting cryptocurrency for businesses only. A handful of other states have considered the idea of accepting of cryptocurrency tax payments, and Clavin wants New York to start entering the discussion.

“There are so many exciting possibilities regarding the future of tax payments in 2020 and beyond,” Clavin said. “But to act on any of these progressive payment concepts, we’ll need a partnership of state, county and local officials, as well as business and community leaders to participate as active stakeholders. I thank Legislator John Ferretti for joining my committee, and I look forward to exploring the potential of cryptocurrency and cashless payment options in America’s largest township.”