File Your Taxes with NYC Free Tax Prep

GetYourRefund.org is a virtual program that connects filers to NYC Free Tax Prep providers to have their return completed for them in two different ways.

1. File virtually with an IRS-certified VITA/TCE preparer if you make under $67,000

Steps:

1. Visit getyourrefund.org/nyc
2. Sign into your account.
3. Submit tax documents using your smartphone, tablet, or computer equipped with a camera.
4. After all necessary documentation is submitted, an IRS-certified VITA/TCE preparer will verify your tax information and contact you.
5. After speaking with a quality reviewer over the phone and signing the final version of your return, your quality reviewer will send your return to the IRS and New York State.

2. File quickly on your own using Get Your Refund's Free Filing software if you make under $79,000

Steps:

1. Visit getyourrefund.org/nyc
2. Scroll down to "File Myself" and begin the process.

Virtual Tax Prep is a safe and reliable online tax prep service. You must have access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; and the ability to download secure video conference software. An IRS-certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer will:

• help you file your 2024 tax return during a 60-90 minute virtual call;
• use a secure digital system to manage your tax documents;
• answer your tax questions.

List of Virtual Tax Prep Providers

Please check back in January 2025 for a list of Virtual Tax Prep Providers.

Assisted Self-Preparation allows filers to complete their tax return online on their own and an IRS certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer will be available by phone or email to answer questions. Filers will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone; a stable internet connection; an email address, and their 2023 adjusted gross income (AGI) or self-select PIN.

List of Assisted Self-Preparation Providers

Please check back in January 2025 for a list of Assisted Self Preparation Providers.

IRS Direct File is a new service that allows taxpayers to file their taxes quickly, easily, and for free. Direct File will walk you through each step of filing your federal return in under an hour, using simple questions and plain language.

Starting in January 2025, you can use Direct File if your tax situation from 2024 was relatively simple, and you want to claim common credits like the EITC and the CTC. Direct File has a screener tool that will make sure it's the right tool for you before you start filing. Follow the steps below to use the IRS Direct File pilot. 

Steps: 

1. Visit directfile.irs.gov on your computer, tablet, or phone to check your eligibility. 
2. If you're eligible, you'll need to create an ID.me account (Check-out this step-by-step guide in case you need help).
3. Use the simple interview-style tool to complete your federal taxes.
4. Once you complete your federal taxes, you’ll be taken to a free state filing system to complete your state return.

If you need help, live chat with a customer service representative who can help with technical support and basic tax law clarification in English and Spanish. Note: For security, customer service representatives will not have access to your IRS account data. 

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, including:

• Workshops: Register for a session to learn the basics of tax filing and recordkeeping best practices. View event calendar for upcoming workshops or request a workshop for your organization or community. 
• One-on-One Consultations: Knowledgeable preparers provide personalized assistance and tools to help you understand and implement recordkeeping best practices for your business. Find an NYC Free Tax Prep Provider.
• 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. Use the toolkits for self-employed filers.

Learn more about the free resources DCWP offers freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners.

Get Your Documents Ready! See a checklist of what you need to file your 2024 tax return.

Read FAQs about NYC Free Tax Prep.

Read FAQs about Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Child Tax Credit (CTC). Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Child and Dependent Care Credit. Learn more about valuable tax credits.

The IRS provides tax filers with many helpful resources. Learn more at irs.gov.

By law, tax preparers must give you a copy of the Consumer Bill of Rights Regarding Tax Preparers before beginning any discussions about tax preparation services. Learn more.

Become a volunteer preparer this tax season. You can have a real impact on New Yorkers’ lives. Learn how you can make a difference.

Since 2002, NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)—formerly the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)— has coordinated the City’s Annual Tax Season Initiative. Learn more about our campaign, our NYC Free Tax Prep Coalition Members, and how you can be a community partner.