New York warns against not handling your own tax returns

New York Tax Department Urges Residents to Know Their Rights

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance is reminding residents to understand their rights as the April 15, 2026 tax filing deadline approaches.

Officials are highlighting the Consumer Bill of Rights for Taxpayers, aimed at safeguarding individuals from dishonest tax preparers who might take advantage of their trust.

“Most tax preparers are honest professionals,” said Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller. “However, there are some who exploit their trusted positions to deceive clients out of their hard-earned money.” The Department offers various free filing options through its website. If you opt to pay for tax preparation, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the Consumer Bill of Rights for Taxpayers to protect your interests.

According to state law, registered preparers must provide a New York State Taxpayer Registration Certificate and a Price List. They are also required to inform clients upfront whether they will represent them if an audit occurs, and they need to gather essential information such as income, expenses, and family details to accurately file the return.

Before clients sign, the preparer should review the completed return, including any bank account information. It’s important to sign the return and include your Taxpayer Identification Number, as well as your New York State Taxpayer Identification Number, if it applies. Returns must be submitted electronically, and preparers are obligated to provide year-round contact information and a copy of the filed return.

If you select a refund prospective loan or refund transfer, be sure to receive a written statement outlining any associated interest and fees instead of opting for direct deposit.

Failure to meet these requirements could lead to fines and the suspension of the preparer’s registration. During filing season, Tax Department inspectors perform compliance checks to ensure that preparers adhere to the regulations. Taxpayers can file complaints with the Internal Revenue Service’s Office of Professional Responsibility if needed.

The tax office strongly urges residents to explore free filing options prior to hiring a preparer. Many New Yorkers qualify to file both federal and state returns at no cost. Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers utilize this service each year, saving an average of $269 in preparation fees.