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New York State earned income credit

Free moneyNew YorkNew York State Department of Taxation and Finance· New York

A state tax credit for working people with low income, on top of the federal EITC. It can mean a refund even if you owe no tax.

Apply on the official site ↗

Goes to Tax.ny.gov. Applying is free.

Who generally qualifies

New Yorkers who qualify for the federal earned income tax credit.

Exact income limits and rules are set by New York State Department of Taxation and Finance and can change. Check the official site for current details.

How to apply

  1. File a New York State tax return.
  2. Claim the credit on form IT-215.

What to have ready

  • W-2s or self-employment records
  • Social Security numbers

Common questions

Does it cost anything to apply?
No. Applying through the official site is free. Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to apply for you.
Do I have to pay it back?
No. This is free money that does not need to be paid back, as long as the information you give is accurate.
Who decides if I qualify?
New York State Department of Taxation and Finance makes the final decision. This page explains the program in general terms only.
Where can I find current income limits and amounts?
Income limits, benefit amounts and deadlines change, so check Tax.ny.gov for the latest details.

Added October 21, 2026. BenefitSearch is not affiliated with New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.