In recognition of Earth Day, New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Thomas H. Mattox today announced that e-filing is saving 160 million sheets of paper annually.  Of the 23.7 million tax returns processed by the Department each year, 16 million – or 70 percent – are filed electronically.

“E-filing is the safest, fastest and easiest way to file your tax return, and it’s also a great way to conserve natural resources,” said Commissioner Mattox.   “E-filing saves New Yorkers more than $1 million annually in paper costs alone; when you consider the additional savings for processing costs and storage, that’s just a fraction of New Yorkers’ overall savings.”

In terms of income taxes, more than 91% of New York taxpayers e-filed this year, up from 88% last year and just 28% ten years ago. The Department also reduced its own paper consumption 37% over three years, saving an additional $260,000 annually.

Commissioner Mattox also reminded taxpayers of the advantages of creating an Online Services account at the Department’s Web site.  The Department offers more than 70 Online Services, providing assistance for virtually every type of tax.  More than 1.9 million taxpayers have Online Service accounts.  

Top 10 Reasons to Have an Online Services Account

10. Schedule estimated tax payments

9.   Change your address

8.   Sign up for paperless bills and notices

7.   Respond to a notice

6.   Make a tax payment

5.   View payment history

4.   Request an installment payment agreement

3.   Pay tax bills

2.   View filing history and copies of e-filed returns

1.   Sign up for email alerts about your tax refund

For more information

• Set up an Online Services account
• Track filing season statistics