The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today reminded taxpayers that the extended filing deadline—July 15—is quickly approaching. With less than two weeks remaining to file, the Tax Department is encouraging taxpayers to take advantage of the free resources available 24/7 at www.tax.ny.gov.

“The Tax Department website is full of valuable resources to help you file an accurate and on-time return ahead of the July 15 deadline,” said New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Michael Schmidt. “Everything from filing tips, to video tutorials, and even software that allows you to file your return for free; it’s on our website to assist you.”

Faster, safer, and more efficient

Filing your return electronically is safer and more efficient than sending paper returns through the mail. About 95% of all personal income tax returns in New York State are electronically prepared and filed. All returns, regardless of how they’re filed, undergo the same systematic review.

You’ll also receive your refund faster if it’s directly deposited into your bank account rather than mailed as a paper check.

To use direct deposit, simply check direct deposit on your tax return, then enter your bank’s nine-digit routing number and your account number. For checking accounts, this information is available on your checks; for savings accounts, contact your bank.

Free File options available online

Each year, millions of New Yorkers qualify to file their personal income tax returns for free through the Tax Department’s website. Taxpayers who earned $69,000 or less in 2019 are eligible to electronically prepare and e-file both their federal and New York State income tax returns by using Free File software.

More than 214,000 taxpayers have already filed their returns through the Free File program this year, saving these taxpayers an estimated $43.9 million in tax preparation fees.

To ensure you're not charged a fee, you must go to the Tax Department’s website to complete your return. Simply select the Free File your income tax return link on the Tax Department’s website to review the Free File options. You’ll save preparation fees, avoid costly errors, and ensure that you receive any refund you’re owed in the most efficient way possible.

The Tax Department has produced a series of video tutorials to assist New Yorkers with the tax return filing process. Topics range from gathering the necessary documents to choosing the right software. You can view the videos at our Get ready to e-file your income tax return webpage.

Check your refund status

Taxpayers can quickly view the status of their New York State tax refund anytime by using the Check your Refund tool on the Tax Department website: www.tax.ny.gov. Updated daily, 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—only without the wait!

You can also find out when your refund will be issued by signing up for Tax Department email alerts. Visit the Tax Department homepage at www.tax.ny.gov and select subscribe at the bottom of the page.

Additional information

See Tax Department response to novel coronavirus (COVID-19) for additional information on the extended tax filing deadline.