Modify computation of the personal income tax joint filer credit
Impact
The proposed modifications include stipulating a nonrefundable credit for joint filers based on their adjusted gross income. Under the new provisions, if both partners in a joint filing have an income of at least $500, they may qualify for a credit that is a percentage of their total tax due. This credit structure aims to alleviate the tax burden for lower to middle-income earners by providing them a greater tax relief than previously possible under the existing law, while ensuring it remains equitable as income rises.
Summary
House Bill 199 seeks to amend section 5747.05 of the Ohio Revised Code to modify the computation of the personal income tax joint filer credit. The primary aim of this bill is to adjust how the credit is calculated for taxpayers who file jointly, potentially altering the amount they can claim based on their combined adjusted gross income. This change is significant as it has implications for many households, particularly those with varying income levels, affecting their overall tax liability.
Contention
While supporters of HB199 argue it provides necessary relief for working families, critics may view the changes as disproportionately benefiting higher-income households at the expense of lower-income families who may not benefit as significantly from the adjusted credit rates. Discussions around the bill may center on equity in tax relief and the overall impact on state tax revenues, raising questions about the sustainability of such tax credits. Additionally, the process for reporting any changes in taxpayer circumstances affecting the credit may introduce complexity in taxpayer compliance and administrative burden.
Revenue and taxation; providing income tax credit for individuals; prescribing method for computation of tax credit; computation of taxable income; effective date.