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ALBANY – The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance has encouraged Capital Region residents in need of tax filing assistance to register for a free virtual session. Taxpayers with adjusted federal gross income of $73,000 or less are eligible to receive free virtual tax assistance from the Department of Taxation.
“Our free tax filing assistance program is a simple, safe and secure way for taxpayers to submit their returns at no cost,” said Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller. “Virtual sessions are available now for residents of the Capital Region and I encourage anyone who is eligible and needs help with filing to register today.”
During a pre-scheduled virtual webinar session using WebEx or Zoom, a tax service expert will guide taxpayers through free tax preparation software step-by-step as they complete and file their own tax return.
To register, see Register for a virtual FSA session.
Once registered, taxpayers will receive a confirmation email with a link to an intake questionnaire. Taxpayers should review and complete the Intake Questionnaire to ensure they have all the documents and equipment needed to complete their return during the session.
These documents and equipment include: a laptop, desktop computer or tablet, as well as a smartphone or webcam to verify identity; basic computer skills; an active email account; all your tax documents; and a copy of your 2020 tax return (if you filed it).
All sessions are virtual, so if a taxpayer’s preferred site is full, they can choose another site.
If a taxpayer cannot find a free virtual session that fits their schedule, they can access the Free File software on their own from home. Free File software is available on the Department of Taxation’s website, www.tax.ny.gov. Taxpayers with income of $73,000 or less in 2021 can electronically complete and submit their federal and New York State tax returns online at no cost.
Nearly 255,000 taxpayers used this software last year, saving them $51 million in tax preparation costs. To be directed to free filing options, simply click File Your Tax Return for Free on the Department of Taxation website. It’s simple, fast and secure.
Free File can help millions of taxpayers claim valuable tax credits without having to hire a tax preparer. The software will help you ensure that you are claiming all the credits you deserve, including Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
To make sure you don’t pay a fee, you need to go to the tax department’s website to complete your return. You’ll save on preparation costs, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure you receive any refunds owed to you in the most efficient way possible.
