taxes

The City and County of Honolulu is offering significant property tax relief this year, but homeowners have to apply by the end of the month.

Carl Bonham, a council member and economist, said Maui tourism will end the year strongly as it begins to recover from last year’s fires.

The bill could incentivize homeowners to offer rental units for residents. That, in turn, could increase the local housing supply. HPR's Mark Ladao explains.

Should Oʻahu place a tax on empty homes? That’s something city lawmakers are considering. Last week, Honolulu City Council introduced Bill 46 to put a tax on dwelling units that have sat empty for over half of the year.

Most Hawaiʻi residents will likely see lower income taxes next year due to a measure passed by the state Legislature. Lawmakers say it's the biggest tax cut in state history: about $5 billion over the next five years. As HPR's Ashley Mizuo explains, some advocates say those changes could limit tax assistance for those who need it most.

At the start of the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers warned they would face tough decisions while focusing on Maui's recovery and balancing core government functions.

The Hawaiʻi Department of Taxation said this tax scam is sent via mail and warns taxpayers to be alert for other scams.

The Senate's Ways and Means committee approved a version of House Bill 1327 on Wednesday. It would give educators a tax credit for expenses such as books, computer equipment and classroom supplies for keiki.

HB 1049 originally included a new tax credit for teachers that could be used to purchase classroom supplies. But WAM chair Donovan Dela Cruz suggested moving that specific credit to HB 1327.

Gov. Josh Green celebrated 100 days in office this week. Per campaign promises, Green has pushed efforts to build more affordable housing. For example, his administration initiated the building of the first neighbor island kauhale village on Hawaiʻi Island.