NYC Mayor Launches Free Tax Prep Season and Cracks Down on Predatory Tax Services

Launch of NYC Free Tax Prep Program

• 🚀 The NYC Free Tax Prep program has officially launched, aiming to help New Yorkers file their taxes for free and keep more of their earned income.
• 💡 This initiative targets working people across the city, offering relief from predatory fees common in the tax industry.
• 🎯 Eligibility extends to families earning up to $97,000 or individuals earning $68,000 in 2025.

Impact and Savings for New Yorkers

• 💰 Last year, the program saved New Yorkers $38.2 million through 110,000 free returns, averaging $346 saved per return.
• 📈 These savings help households afford necessities like groceries, bills, and rent.
• 📍 Over 140 locations across the city, including NYC Health and Hospitals sites, offer year-round assistance.

Combating Predatory Tax Practices

• ⚠️ The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) is launching an aggressive enforcement program to crack down on exorbitant charges and deceptive practices in the paid tax industry.
• 🔍 Inspectors will be deployed to tax preparation locations, and warning letters will be sent to deter unfair fees and sketchy loans.
• ✅ The focus is on targeting businesses using deceitful tactics, not those employing fair practices.

Integrating Financial Health and Public Health

• ❤️ NYC Health and Hospitals recognizes that financial stress significantly impacts mental and physical health, leading to anxiety and increased risk of heart disease.
• 🏥 By offering free tax prep services at healthcare sites, the city treats financial insecurity as a public health priority.
• 🤝 The partnership has expanded to 15 Health and Hospitals locations, making it convenient for patients to address both health and financial needs.

Support for Gig Workers and Self-Employed

• 🛠️ Specialized tax preparation services are available for self-employed individuals, small business owners, and gig workers, including delivery workers and freelancers.
• 🌐 The program aims to help these individuals manage their recordkeeping and overcome filing hurdles.

Addressing Winter Weather and City Services

• ❄️ The briefing also touched upon the city's response to a cold snap, with city workers ensuring vulnerable New Yorkers are brought in from the cold and sanitation workers clearing snow and collecting trash.
• 📊 Despite challenges, city operations continue around the clock to maintain essential services.