Tax season can be overwhelming, especially for busy parents who are already juggling work and parenting. New York City offers several free tax preparation services designed to help families maximize their refunds and take advantage of valuable tax credits, like the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
NYC Free Tax Prep
The NYC Free Tax Prep program, offered by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), provides free tax preparation to eligible New Yorkers. Parents who earned $93,000 or less in 2024 (or $65,000 or less if filing as a single filer) qualify for assistance from IRS-certified volunteers.
How parents can file for free:
- In-person tax filing – Visit a designated site and have a preparer file your taxes on-site.
- Drop-off service – Drop off your documents and return later for your completed return.
- Virtual tax prep – Complete your filing with a preparer over a 60–90-minute virtual session.
- Assisted self-prep – File your own taxes with access to a preparer for guidance.
Parents, especially those with dependents, should bring documents such as social security numbers or ITINs for all household members, W-2 forms, and child care expense documentation to maximize their refund. Learn more.
Food Bank For New York City
Another option is Food Bank For New York City, which provides free tax help for families earning $65,000 or less, through a partnership with Campaign for Working Families. Their volunteers ensure eligible filers claim tax credits like the Child Tax Credit and EITC, which can significantly increase refunds for families. Learn more.
Ariva Free Tax Preparation
Ariva offers free IRS-certified tax preparation in the Bronx as well as Manhattan to ensure families claim all available deductions and credits. They specialize in helping low- to moderate-income families and provide services in multiple languages. Learn more.
Urban Upbound
Urban Upbound offers year-round free tax preparation services for individuals earning up to $93,000, as well as for persons with disabilities, seniors, and those with limited English proficiency. Additionally, Urban Upbound screens clients for public benefits like SNAP and provides enrollment support. Services are available in person across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, with virtual options also offered. Learn more.
Online DIY Option: IRS Free File
For parents who are comfortable filing taxes on their own but want to save money, the IRS Free File program is an excellent option. Families earning $79,000 or less can use free online tax software from trusted providers like TurboTax or H&R Block. These platforms offer step-by-step guidance and allow parents to e-file from the comfort of their home. Learn more.
Maximize your refund
Parents filing their taxes should ensure they claim:
- Child Tax Credit (CTC) – Up to $2,000 per qualifying child.
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – Worth up to $7,430 for families with three or more children.
- Child and Dependent Care Credit – Helps cover childcare expenses for working parents.
Find resources
Filing taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. NYC provides numerous free resources, whether you prefer in-person, virtual, or DIY tax filing. Families can also check with their local community board, council member’s office and other community platforms to find information on other free tax services or eligible tax credits– and keep more of their hard-earned money.
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