The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today reminded new high school graduates and current college students who earn income in New York State that they may be entitled to tax refunds and education-related benefits.

A student may be owed a refund on tax withheld from their seasonal or part-time job, but must file a return to claim it.

“We urge students to learn about their tax obligation and determine whether they need to file a tax return, so they don’t miss out on any refunds they’re owed,” Acting Commissioner Nonie Manion said. “Students may also qualify for other tax credits and deductions that can help offset tuition costs.”

Steps for students to take:

• Maintain a file for any tax documents or paycheck information received.
  
  
• Determine their tax filing status using the IRS What is My Filing Status? tool.
  
  
• Find out whether they’ll be claimed as dependents by parents or guardians.
  
  
• Visit IRS: Do I Need to File a Tax Return? and New York State Tax Department: Do I need to file an income tax return? to determine whether they must file.

Save on college costs

New York State offers several money-savings programs, including credits and other tax benefits specifically for college students.

• College tuition credit or itemized deduction: An undergraduate students paying their own tuition, who isn’t being claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return, could receive up to $400 in credit. Alternatively, a taxpayer may claim an itemized deduction of up to $10,000 per student. Visit our website at College tuition credit or itemized deduction for more information.
  
  
• Tax-free course textbooks: College textbooks are exempt from sales tax whether they’re purchased at a bookstore, by mail, online, or by any other means.

For more information

• NYS Tax Basics: College Students
• IRS information for students