One Week to File Tax Returns – The Tax Department Offers Online Resources and Free Filing Options Direct

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reminded taxpayers that the deadline to file personal income tax returns and pay any taxes owed is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) Tuesday, April 15.

“Ahead of tax filing deadline, April 15, we encourage taxpayers to visit our website at www.tax.ny.gov for last-minute tax filing assistance,” said New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller. “From tax filing tips to free e-filing options, we’re here to help taxpayers quickly and easily meet their filing obligations.”

File for free

You may be eligible to e-file your personal income tax returns for free with Direct File, Free File, or other free e-filing options. Check your eligibility to see which free filing option is right for you.

New York State Direct File is a free, easy-to-use e-file option to file your federal and state income tax returns. Direct File can be accessed from a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or desktop computer – in English or Spanish. If your 2024 wages were less than $200,000 – or $250,000 if you’re filing a joint return – you may qualify to use Direct File. To check eligibility, go to New York eligibility for Direct File. For a video about getting started, go to New York State Direct File.
You may be eligible to use Free File software to e-file your federal and state income tax returns at no cost through the Tax Department website. Information about Free File is available in multiple languages.
If you don't qualify for Direct File or Free File, you may be eligible for other free filing options. See other e-file options for personal income tax to learn more.

Get your questions answered

The most efficient way to obtain filing guidance and information, including answers to common questions, is to visit the Tax Department’s website, www.tax.ny.gov, and our Filing season resource center.

The Tax Department’s Personal Income Tax Call Center will have extended hours to assist last-minute filers.

Estimated tax payments

If you made estimated tax payments in the previous year, review your tax account balance in your Individual Online Services account before you file to ensure you are reporting the correct amount on your return.

Track your refund

Quickly view the status of your New York State tax refund anytime by using the Check your Refund application on the Tax Department website: www.tax.ny.gov. It is the fastest and most convenient way to know when to expect your refund.

Request an extension of time to file

You can apply for an automatic extension of time to file if you’re unable to file a completed income tax return by the April 15 deadline. An extension will provide more time to prepare and file your return, but not more time to pay any tax owed. You must make full payment of the properly estimated tax balance owed when requesting an extension of time to file.

File on time even if you can’t pay what you owe

If you can’t pay what you owe by the due date, the Tax Department encourages you to submit a completed tax return by the April 15 deadline to avoid penalties and pay what you can afford to help reduce penalty and interest. Payment options are available on the Tax Department website if you want to make an income tax return payment when you file your tax return.