If you've received ECB violations in New York City and failed to attend your OATH hearing, you may be eligible for reduced penalty settlement programs administered by the Department of Finance (DOF). Here's a clear guide to what this means, how to determine eligibility, and steps to save money and close out your violations.

What Is the OATH-Adjudicated ECB Judgments Settlement Program?

This DOF program applies only to default judgments issued by the Environmental Control Board (ECB) through OATH—meaning you did not attend a hearing. If eligible, you’ll pay:

• The full base fine,
• Accrued interest since the judgment date,
• Half of the default penalty (the other half is waived).

Who Qualifies?

To participate, your judgment must meet all these criteria:

• Be an OATH-adjudicated default judgment (you missed the hearing).
• Have been brought into compliance (with a Certificate of Correction or agency notification).
• Not be referred to a marshal, sheriff, or Law Department for collection.

You can pay for multiple eligible judgments at once—but each must be paid in full.

Why Consider It?

• Waived penalties: Save half the default penalty.
• Avoid legal actions: Prevent liens, sheriff referrals, or asset seizure.
• Reduce growing interest: The sooner you act, the more you save.

How to Check Eligibility & Make Payment

1. Visit NYC e‑Services and search by name, address, ticket number, or OATH ID.
2. Eligible judgments will show a settlement amount.
3. Pay online via CityPay using e‑check or credit card.

What About Amnesty Programs?

In addition to the standard settlement, NYC has occasionally run temporary amnesty programs (like 2021’s FAIRER initiative). These offer even deeper discounts—up to 75% off for older judgments—but are time-limited and not currently active.

Comparison: Settlement vs. Amnesty

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: I attended my OATH hearing. Can I still settle?

A: No. Only default judgments (missed hearings) are eligible.

Q2: What if my violation is with a marshal or sheriff?

A: Those must be settled directly with the collecting agency and are not eligible.

Q3: Can I make partial payments?

A: No. You must pay the full settlement amount for each judgment.

Q4: Does interest stop once I qualify?

A: No. Interest continues to accrue until payment is made in full.

Q5: How do I confirm compliance?

A: You need a Certificate of Correction or agency notification to the DOF.

Final Takeaways

• Use NYC’s ECB Settlement Program to save on default judgments.
• Act early to avoid growing interest and legal enforcement.
• Watch for future amnesty opportunities for deeper discounts.

If you need help reviewing your ECB violations, submitting compliance documents, or making payments, NYC Building Violation Removal & Expediting LLC is here to help.