Resources for Self-Employed Filers

If you work for yourself as a freelancer, gig worker, or small business owner, DCWP offers free resources to support you.

Self-Employed Tax Filers Events

Join our free Workshops (group sessions) to learn the basics of tax filing and recordkeeping best practices. View event calendar for upcoming workshops.

You can also request a workshop for your organization or community.

Year-Round Specialized Tax Prep

If you work for yourself, you need to file taxes annually and make estimated tax payments quarterly. Sites specifically for the self-employed will offer free resources to help you grow your business.

At select in-person NYC Free Tax Prep sites, knowledgeable preparers and enrolled agents sit down with you to complete an accurate personal and business return, including federal and New York State annual and quarterly estimated tax filings. This service is available to families with dependents who earned $85,000 individuals or couples who earned $59,000 or less in 2023 and have business expenses of $250,000 or less.

Use our NYC Free Tax Prep map to find sites that offer self-employed/Schedule C assistance.

Reminder: Please review the checklist of documents you will need to file your 2023 tax return at an NYC Free Tax Prep site specifically for the self-employed.

NYC Financial Empowerment Centers

NYC Financial Empowerment Centers provide FREE one-on-one professional financial counseling and coaching to support you in reaching your goals. Freelancers and other self-employed filers who want to create a budget, establish or improve credit, separate personal and business finances, and more can work with a professional financial counselor for free. Book an appointment online.

Specialized Business Services

Tax Toolkits + More: Recordkeeping templates and tips will be available online and for use with our preparers. Our preparers can also connect you to free City services and other resources to help you build assets and grow your business.

Freelancer Rights

Under the Freelance Isn’t Free Act, a freelance worker is any individual hired or retained as an independent contractor by a hiring party to provide services for compensation. Freelance workers in New York are protected by certain laws and afforded rights. Learn more about freelance protections and resources.