Monday, April 15 is the filing deadline for New York State and federal personal income taxes. Here are some filing tips to keep in mind.

Always file! - And do so on time to avoid penalties and interest for late filing.  If you owe taxes and you can’t pay in full, still file by the deadline – the penalties are much higher for late filing than late payment.  File for an extension before the deadline if you can't file timely. 

Get credit! – Income tax credits can increase your refund or reduce the taxes you owe.  We have helpful videos where you can learn more about the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Earned Income Credit, and many more.

E-file! - Electronic filing is fast, easy, and secure. And you’ll receive your refund faster.  More than 85 percent of New Yorkers e-file – you should too. 

File for Free!

• Income under $57,000? – Free File your state and federal returns from your own computer only at www.tax.ny.gov
• Income under $51,000? – Certified and trained volunteers will prepare both of your returns for free – find a site near you by visiting the IRS website or calling 1-800-906-9887

Choose direct deposit or debit card for your refund! – They’re both faster and safer than a paper check. More than 70% of refunds have been delivered via direct deposit or debit card this year.  Learn more about the refund debit card.

Avoid these common filing errors!

• Incorrect or missing social security numbers - Social security numbers for all individuals must be listed correctly on your return
• No signature or date on your return - For joint returns, the signatures of both spouses must be included
• No stamp on your envelope - An unstamped envelope won't be postmarked

Coming next year – Family Tax Relief Credit! - New legislation signed by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo cuts taxes for many middle class families by $1.23 billion over three years.  Families with incomes between $40,000 and $300,000 will be eligible to receive the new credit of $350 per year, beginning in 2014. 

Also see

• Governor Cuomo Encourages New Yorkers to Use Free Tax Assistance at Over 400 Statewide Locations
• Consumer Alert: NYS Taxpayer Advocate Reminds Millions of New Yorkers to File Their Taxes for Free