New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a partnership with Code for America to help New Yorkers file their tax returns for free online.
The partnership, which launched March 12, offers a new tool – FileYourStateTaxes – that is aimed at making it easier for eligible New Yorkers to file their taxes at no cost.
“Filing your taxes should be free and simple, and starting March 12, we’re launching a new, no-cost option to streamline the process for millions of New York taxpayers,” Gov. Hochul said. “Thanks to our partnership with Code for America and the IRS, New York is delivering on its commitment to helping New Yorkers access vital government services, meet their tax obligations, and recover tax benefits.”
“Code for America shares New York State’s belief that the tax system should work well for everyone, which is why providing a free, easy way for New Yorkers to file a tax return is a priority for us both,” said Code for America CEO Amanda Renteria. “FileYourStateTaxes will help close the tax benefits participation gap in New York and ensure families can access the funds for which they are eligible.”
The tool also provides integration with the Internal Revenue Service’s Direct File pilot, allowing eligible individuals to file Federal tax returns online as well.
New York is one of 12 states participating in the Direct File pilot, and one of only three providing seamless, integrated state tax filing. Upon completing the Federal return on the IRS website, New Yorkers can export their information from Direct File to FileYourStateTaxes and complete a state return within minutes.
The state said that FileYourStateTaxes can help low- and middle-income New Yorkers save hundreds of dollars in tax preparation fees and improve access to critical credits like the state and city Earned Income Tax Credit, and the newly expanded Empire State Child Credit.
Before launching on March 12, the new tool went through several iterative rounds of scaled testing plus a public beta test.
