New york bar coding mail

You're referring to the New York State Bar Code on Mail (BCOM) program!

The New York State Bar Code on Mail (BCOM) program is a system used by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance to verify the identity of taxpayers and prevent fraud. Here's how it works:

  1. Bar code: The program uses a unique bar code that is printed on certain types of mail, such as tax returns, refund checks, and other correspondence.
  2. Verification: When the mail is processed, the bar code is scanned and verified against the taxpayer's information in the department's database.
  3. Authentication: If the bar code matches the taxpayer's information, the mail is considered authentic and is processed accordingly.

The BCOM program helps to:

  1. Prevent fraud: By verifying the identity of taxpayers, the program helps to prevent fraudulent activities, such as identity theft and tax scams.
  2. Reduce errors: The program helps to reduce errors and misdirected mail by ensuring that the correct taxpayer information is associated with the mail.
  3. Improve efficiency: The program streamlines the processing of mail and reduces the need for manual verification, making it more efficient for taxpayers and the department.

Some common types of mail that may have a BCOM bar code include:

  1. Tax returns: Federal and state income tax returns, as well as other tax-related documents.
  2. Refund checks: Refund checks issued by the state or federal government.
  3. Correspondence: Letters and other documents sent by the department to taxpayers, such as notices, bills, and statements.

If you're a taxpayer in New York, you may have noticed the BCOM bar code on some of your mail. It's an important security measure that helps to protect your identity and ensure the integrity of the tax system.