Taxpayers Should Plan Now For 2006 Filing Season

This week, Senator Bill Larkin advises taxpayers to start planning now for the upcoming tax season.

"A little preparation now can save filers time, effort and energy -- and perhaps, even a few dollars," said Senator Larkin. "By starting early, taxpayers will be able to better organize their records and reduce potential errors, not to mention avoid the stress and frustration of the mid-April tax rush when you put off filing your taxes until the last minute."

Taxpayers should check copies of their 2004 tax returns against what they’ve earned in 2005 and anticipate deducting this year. Anyone with questions or concerns should first consult the Tax Department’s website, www.nystax.gov, or contact the Department’s customer service representatives at 1-800-CALL-TAX (1-800-225-5829).

On the website, taxpayers can access information on how to obtain or download tax forms, determine whether they qualify for free online New York State tax preparation and e-filing, how to obtain Form W-2 (an individual’s wage and tax statement), or who to contact regarding an outstanding tax liability.

Tax filers can also consult the Department’s catalogue of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), which provides answers to questions regarding various personal income tax, estate tax, gift and prize winnings, sales and use tax, child support enforcement, technical assistance and help with other tax-related matters.

There is also information available online or through the Call Center about the State’s STAR school tax relief program for homeowners, tax help for individuals serving in the military, how to find up-to-date changes to the State’s individual and corporate tax forms, how to check on the status of your refund online or by phone, tuition tax credits, the Farmer’s School Tax Credit, and other information.