NYC Launches Free Tax Preparation Program for 2026, Easing Financial Burdens for Low-Income Residents

### What’s happening

– The NYC Free Tax Preparation Program has launched for the 2026 tax season.
– Mayor Mamdani and the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection oversee this initiative.
– The program is effective immediately, with services available until the April 15, 2026, filing deadline.

### Why it matters

– Nearly half of New Yorkers can access these free tax preparation services, which help low-income residents.
– The program aims to save residents from costly fees, enabling them to claim full tax refunds.

### Key details

– Eligibility includes families earning $97,000 or less and individuals or couples earning $68,000 or less.
– Last year, the program helped complete over 110,000 tax returns, saving New Yorkers approximately $38 million in fees.
– The NYC Free Tax Prep Program will operate at more than 140 locations across the city.
– Assistance is available year-round for past tax returns in addition to the current filing season.
– The initiative includes targeted support for self-employed individuals and gig workers.
– The filing deadline for tax returns for 2025 is April 15, 2026.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced the launch of New York City’s Free Tax Preparation Program, aimed at providing no-cost services to residents through the 2026 tax season. This initiative is overseen by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection in partnership with IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers across all five boroughs.

According to Mayor Mamdani, the program significantly benefits low-income households. Families earning up to $97,000 and individual filers earning up to $68,000 are eligible for assistance. This year, the aim is to expand participation, building on last year’s success, which saw over 110,000 tax returns filed, leading to $38 million in savings from excessive filing fees.

The services are available at more than 140 locations, including New York City Health and Hospitals sites. This allows residents easy access to both tax preparation and health services in a single visit. The program is designed to help alleviate the financial burden associated with tax filing, particularly for those who may otherwise face predatory fees from commercial tax services.

In addition to the launch, the city has initiated a crackdown on predatory tax preparers, enforcing strict rules against hidden fees and unethical practices. The program has a dual aim: to assist taxpayers and protect them from exploitation.

All New Yorkers are encouraged to utilize the Free Tax Prep services, available year-round, with the final deadline for 2025 tax filings set for April 15, 2026. Eligible residents can also seek year-round help for past tax returns. This initiative is a vital resource aimed at enhancing financial stability among working New Yorkers.

(Source: https://youtu.be/YQCgpkis7jE)