Keep More Money in Your Pockets This Tax Season: Tax Department Offers Free Tax Filing Options

For Immediate Release: Thursday, March 5, 2026

For media inquiries only, contact: Ryan Cleveland, 518-457-7377

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today reminded taxpayers that Free File software options can make filing federal and state income tax returns fast and free for qualifying New Yorkers. The deadline to file returns and pay any tax owed (or request an extension of time to file) is midnight on April 15, 2026.

"Too often, taxpayers who use commercial tax preparation software are surprised by charges for additional fees while completing their annual filing," said New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller. "For a truly free experience, visit the New York State Tax Department website, www.tax.ny.gov, where there are no added costs or hidden fees."

Taxpayers should review eligibility requirements for each software provider to see what free filing option is right for them.

Information about Free File is available in multiple languages.

Other e-filing options

Taxpayers who don't qualify for Free File software may be eligible for other free filing options. See other e-file options for personal income tax to learn more.

Taxpayer Assistance Program

Taxpayers with federal adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less, and investment income of $11,950 or less, may qualify for in-person or virtual assistance through the Taxpayer Assistance Program. Certified NYS Tax Department staff guide eligible taxpayers as they electronically prepare and file their basic federal and state tax returns themselves for free.

To register for an in-person or virtual session, see our Taxpayer Assistance Program.

Gather important documents

For information on choosing the right software, gathering key documents, and additional filing tools, visit the Tax Department's Income tax filing resource center.

Track your refund

After submitting a completed return, taxpayers can quickly view the status of their New York State tax refund anytime by using the Check your Refund application on the Tax Department website: www.tax.ny.gov.