New York State and the Internal Revenue Service have created a new program that allows eligible New Yorkers to e-file their federal and state personal income tax returns for free.

The program allows taxpayers to save hundreds of dollars on tax preparation fees.

The Direct File Pilot Project opens on March 12 to eligible New Yorkers reporting certain types of income and claiming certain credits and adjustments.

Learn more about Direct File here. Also review New York State's Direct File eligibility requirements.

Acting Tax Commissioner Amanda Hiller said: “I urge taxpayers to check to see whether Direct File is right for them. In this first year of the pilot project, eligibility is limited, but as the IRS and State build out the program, more taxpayers will be eligible. Direct File really is the future of taxing filing.”

The Direct File Pilot Project is part of Governor Hochul’s drive to make government work better for New Yorkers.

Read Governor Hochul’s release here