The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today reminded New Yorkers who obtained a filing extension that they must file their NYS income tax return on or before October 16.

The Tax Department expects nearly 420,000 returns to be filed ahead of the extension deadline. Once the returns are systematically reviewed and finalized, the Tax Department will have processed a total of more than 10.5 million personal income tax returns this year.

“I encourage filers to avoid filing in a last-minute rush,” said Acting Commissioner Nonie Manion. “Our convenient electronic filing options are available now. Eligible taxpayers can e-file both their federal and New York State income tax returns for free through software on our website.”
 
E-file—Join the 92% of New Yorkers who e-file. E-filed returns are 20 times less likely to have an error. Filing an accurate return, using provable information, is the best way to ensure prompt processing and the issuance of any refund that may be due.
 
File for free—Individuals and families with adjusted gross household income of $64,000 or less can prepare and file both their federal and state income tax returns for free at our website—www.tax.ny.gov.

Claim the credits you deserve—All New York taxpayers should check their eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC can reduce the amount of taxes owed or provide a substantial refund. EITCs are refundable federal, New York State, and New York City credits for working taxpayers. The maximum credits increase annually and vary based on factors including family income and the number of children. For tax year 2016, the maximum total of federal, state, and New York City EITC credits is $8,463 (for a family with three children). Learn about this valuable credit and others, including the child and dependent care credit and college tuition credit, at our Income tax credits page.

Use direct deposit for your refund—Taxpayers who e-file and choose direct deposit can receive their refund twice as fast as those who file on paper and choose to have a check mailed to their home. A paper check can take an extra week or more. If you hire a tax preparer, make sure your refund is deposited into your account—not the preparer's.

Check your refund online—Taxpayers can quickly view the status of their NYS tax refund anytime by clicking the Check Refund Status button on the Tax Department website: www.tax.ny.gov. It’s the fastest and most convenient way to know when to expect your refund. It provides the same information available to our phone representatives.

Don’t have a computer or smart phone? The Tax Department’s automated refund status phone line is available any time at 518-457-5149.