The Complete Guide to the Connecticut Commissioner of Revenue Services
Introduction
Greetings, readers! Welcome to this comprehensive guide to the Connecticut Commissioner of Revenue Services (CT CRS). We’ll explore everything you need to know about this important office, including the commissioner’s role, responsibilities, and initiatives.
As the head of the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, the Commissioner of Revenue Services is responsible for administering, enforcing, and collecting taxes in the state of Connecticut. This includes property taxes, sales and use taxes, corporate taxes, and more. The Commissioner also provides guidance and support to taxpayers and tax professionals.
Section 1: Understanding the Commissioner’s Role
Overview
The Commissioner of Revenue Services is appointed by the Governor of Connecticut and serves at their discretion. The commissioner is responsible for overseeing the Department of Revenue Services, which employs over 1,000 people. The department’s mission is to "provide fair and efficient tax administration for the State of Connecticut."
Responsibilities
- Developing and implementing tax policy: The commissioner works with the Governor and state legislature to develop and implement tax policies that support the state’s budget and economic goals.
- Enforcing tax laws: The commissioner is responsible for enforcing tax laws and collecting taxes from taxpayers. This includes auditing tax returns, investigating tax fraud, and taking enforcement actions against non-compliant taxpayers.
- Providing taxpayer services: The commissioner’s office provides a variety of services to taxpayers, including tax information, assistance with tax preparation, and dispute resolution.
Section 2: Current Initiatives of the CT CRS
Tax Modernization Program
The CT CRS is in the midst of a multi-year tax modernization program. The program is designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the state’s tax system. The program includes initiatives such as:
- Upgrading the department’s technology systems
- Streamlining tax forms and processes
- Making it easier for taxpayers to file their taxes electronically
Taxpayer Advocate Program
The CT CRS has created a Taxpayer Advocate Program to help taxpayers who are experiencing problems with the tax system. The program provides taxpayers with a dedicated advocate who can help them resolve issues with their tax returns, audits, or other tax matters.
Section 3: Commissioner of Revenue Services: A Rich History
The First Commissioner
The first Commissioner of Revenue Services was appointed in 1963. The commissioner’s office was originally part of the Connecticut Department of Finance and Administration. In 1971, the commissioner’s office became a separate agency.
Notable Commissioners
Over the years, several notable individuals have served as Connecticut Commissioner of Revenue Services. These include:
- Thomas Fahy (1971-1978): Fahy was the first commissioner of the newly created Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
- James Flaherty (1979-1983): Flaherty served as commissioner during a period of major tax reform in Connecticut.
- Denise Nappier (1999-2004): Nappier was the first African American woman to serve as Commissioner of Revenue Services.
Section 4: Table of Connecticut Commissioners of Revenue Services
| Name | Term |
|---|---|
| Thomas Fahy | 1971-1978 |
| James Flaherty | 1979-1983 |
| Michael Smith | 1983-1989 |
| Arthur Wiese | 1989-1991 |
| Marc Ryan | 1991-1995 |
| Robert Genuario | 1995-1999 |
| Denise Nappier | 1999-2004 |
| Kevin Sullivan | 2004-2011 |
| Scott Jackson | 2011-2015 |
| Kevin Sullivan | 2015-2019 |
| John Biello | 2019-present |
Section 5: Check Out Our Other Articles
Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide to the Connecticut Commissioner of Revenue Services. We hope you found this information helpful.
For more information on the CT CRS, please visit our website. We also encourage you to check out our other articles on related topics:
- How to File Your Connecticut State Taxes
- Connecticut Tax Laws and Regulations
- The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services: A History
FAQ about CT Commissioner of Revenue Services
What is the role of the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
The Commissioner is responsible for administering the tax laws of Connecticut and collecting revenue to fund state programs.
Who is the current Commissioner of Revenue Services?
The current Commissioner is Mark Boughton.
What are the qualifications to be Commissioner of Revenue Services?
The Commissioner must be a resident of Connecticut, have at least five years of experience in tax administration or related fields, and be a member in good standing of the Bar of Connecticut.
How is the Commissioner of Revenue Services appointed?
The Commissioner is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the General Assembly.
What is the term of office for the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
The Commissioner serves a four-year term.
What is the salary of the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
$160,000 per year.
What are the responsibilities of the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
- Overseeing the operations of the Department of Revenue Services
- Developing and implementing tax policies
- Enforcing tax laws
- Collecting taxes
- Providing taxpayer assistance
- Issuing tax rulings
- Representing the state in tax litigation
How can I contact the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
You can contact the Commissioner by phone at (860) 297-4270 or by email at commissioner@ct.gov.
Where can I get more information about the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
You can visit the website of the Department of Revenue Services at https://portal.ct.gov/DRS.
What if I have a complaint about the Commissioner of Revenue Services?
You can file a complaint with the Office of the State Auditors at https://portal.ct.gov/OAS.
