NYS: Claim the tax credits you deserve - and file for free!

Working taxpayers may be eligible to claim EITC – Earned Income Tax Credit

By the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance encourages New Yorkers to review their eligibility for valuable tax credits. Many New Yorkers with income of $73,000 or less can avoid the cost of hiring a paid tax preparer to claim their credits by filing their tax returns using the department’s Free File program.

Millions of New Yorkers file their federal and state tax returns using Free File software, available through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website. Taxpayers can use Free File software to determine their eligibility for valuable tax credits – including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Earned Income Tax Credits Can Be Worth Up To $11,097

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable credit for working taxpayers who meet certain income guidelines. Eligible taxpayers can receive a refund even if the credit amount is more than what they owe in taxes.

Every year, thousands of New Yorkers qualify for the EITC for the first time as their filing status or personal financial situation changes. Eligibility requirements for the Earned income credit (New York state) are explained on the Tax Department website.

Federal, state, and New York City Earned Income Tax Credits are worth up to $11,097 for a family with three or more children. More information about federal, state and local earned income tax credits, including the value of available credits, is available here.

“Free File is a simple way to file tax returns and access valuable tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit,” said New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner of Amanda Hiller. “The Earned Income Tax Credit provides substantial benefits to many working New Yorkers – including those who are self-employed. It lowers the amount of your taxes and can lead to an increased refund.”

File a Tax Return to Claim the Credits You Deserve

You must file a personal income tax return to receive the Earned Income Tax Credit, even if you don’t owe any taxes. E-filing is the easiest way to file your return, and the fastest way to receive your refund.

When you’re ready to file, gather your information and documentation. If you received unemployment, request your Form 1099-G from the Department of Labor. Remember to include the full amount on your New York state personal income tax return.

Be sure to request direct deposit – it's the easiest and fastest way to get your refund.

File Your Taxes For Free

If your 2022 federal adjusted gross (AGI) income is $73,000 or less, you can file both your federal and New York state returns at no cost through the Tax Department website using Free File. The software will help ensure you claim the credits you deserve.

Information about Free File is available in multiple languages: Spanish | Chinese | Russian | Bengali | Haitian Creole | Korean | Yiddish

Not eligible to Free File? Learn about other e-file options.

After You File

Check your refund status at your convenience! Get the most up-to-date information about your refund and your return, use our online Check your refund status tool.