Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, together with the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) and NYC Health + Hospitals, has launched the 2026 tax season by offering free tax preparation services to eligible New Yorkers. The program, called NYC Free Tax Prep, is designed to assist residents with tax filing without incurring high fees. Last year, the program processed 110,000 returns, resulting in approximately $38.2 million in savings on preparation fees for participants.
As part of efforts to address predatory tax practices, the city is conducting inspections of paid tax preparer businesses to ensure compliance with laws regulating fees. The administration is combining these oversight measures with the free tax preparation services to help protect residents from hidden or unlawful charges.
The free tax preparation service is available to New York City residents or workers with an annual income of up to $97,000 for families, or up to $68,000 for individuals or couples without dependents. The program offers multiple options, including in-person appointments, virtual assistance, drop-off services, and assisted self-preparation. According to the official announcement, there are more than 140 VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) sites participating in the initiative.
DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine highlighted that the program’s preparers can assist participants in claiming eligible refunds and credits, including the recently updated Empire State Child Tax Credit. The initiative also provides guidance on managing student loan obligations amid evolving federal policies and offers specialized support for self-employed New Yorkers as part of its broader services.
Eligible New Yorkers can access language support at various sites offering services in Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and Urdu. For locations without on-site language assistance, an IRS-approved Over-the-Phone Interpreter service is available. NYC Health + Hospitals and MetroPlusHealth also participate in the program, providing integrated health care and financial resources as part of the initiative’s comprehensive support.
Residents are encouraged to use NYC Free Tax Prep services. Those who choose paid tax preparers should be aware of potentially misleading practices, such as claims of rapid refund or fast cash. Consumers can request the Consumer Bill of Rights Regarding Tax Preparers from any paid preparer to understand their rights. With the IRS accepting returns through April 15, New Yorkers can access assistance at designated sites and take advantage of the program’s services.
