New York expands free tax filing program

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — More New Yorkers will be able to file their taxes for free this year with the Direct File program, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday. For 2025, more New Yorkers will be eligible for the program with more tax credits and different types of income being accepted.

“New Yorkers know all too well about the long processes that come with filing taxes, and that is why the state has put significant effort in our tax program to ease those burdens,” Governor Hochul said. 

New York State first piloted Direct File with the IRS in 2024. The project was open to a limited number of taxpayers with simple returns with 14,000 New Yorkers participating in the program.

On average, New York taxpayers saved $260 in tax preparation fees by using the tool, a press release from the governor’s office said. This year, New Yorkers with a 2024 income up to $200,000 — or $250,000 if filing a joint return — may qualify to use Direct File to file their federal and state personal income tax returns at no charge. 

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance estimates that about 3.4 million New Yorkers will be able to file their taxes using Direct File this year, according to a press release. Direct File will be available for use when this year’s tax season officially opens later in January. Taxes are due on April 15.