NYS OASAS Announces Launch of New Campaign to Raise Awareness of the Recovery Friendly Workplace Tax Credit

 

Recovery Tax Credit Provides Tax Breaks of up to $2,000 for Each Employee in Recovery from a Substance Use Disorder that they Hire

 

New Campaign Will Help to Raise Awareness of the Program and Benefits to Hiring Individuals in Recovery

The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS) today announced the launch of a new media campaign to raise awareness of the Recovery Friendly Workplace Tax Credit. This tax credit program was established in 2019 and is designed as an incentive to hire individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder by giving their employers the opportunity to receive a credit on their taxes.

“Having reliable employment can be an important factor in the recovery process for many people who are impacted by substance use disorder.” OASAS Commissioner Chinazo Cunningham said. “This new campaign will help get the word out about this important program, which has benefits for both employees and businesses, and will further support the recovery community here in New York State.”

The new media awareness campaign includes radio, print, streaming audio, and social media ads, in both English and Spanish. The campaign will run statewide through September, which marks the observance of Recovery Month across the country.

The Recovery Friendly Workplace Tax Credit is the first program of its kind in the nation. It supports eligible employers who hire individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder by providing a tax credit of up to $2,000 per employee, depending on hours worked. A total of $2 million in tax credits is available statewide. The program is designed to help rid the workplace of the stigma surrounding addiction, as well as increase employment opportunities for those in recovery. More information about the program, including how to apply, is available here.

New Yorkers struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, can find help and hope by calling the state’s toll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369). 

Available addiction treatment including crisis/detox, inpatient, residential, or outpatient care can be found using the NYS OASAS Treatment Availability Dashboard at FindAddictionTreatment.ny.gov or through the NYS OASAS website. 

If you, or a loved one, have experienced insurance obstacles related to treatment or need help filing an appeal for a denied claim, contact the CHAMP helpline by phone at 888-614-5400 or email at ombuds@oasas.ny.gov.