Still Haven’t Filed? Free Tax Prep Is Available In Brooklyn Through April 7

BROOKLYN, NY — Councilmember Alexa Avilés is providing free tax preparation services to eligible Brooklyn residents through April 7.

IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly volunteers will assist residents with incomes below $97,000 with dependents, or below $68,000 for single filers.
Appointments are required; walk-ins will not be accepted. Services are offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 4417 4th Ave.

Residents must bring government-issued ID, Social Security or ITIN cards, wage statements and documentation of deductible expenses.

What To Know About NYC Taxes And Common Deductions

New York City residents pay federal, state and city income taxes, and free VITA/TCE preparers can help ensure residents claim credits and deductions they may otherwise miss.

Common tax benefits available to eligible filers include the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and the New York State Child and Dependent Care Credit. Renters may qualify for the New York State renter’s credit, depending on income and household size.

Taxpayers who paid for child care, including daycare or after-school programs, may be able to deduct those expenses with proper documentation. Student loan interest payments and certain education expenses may also be deductible.

Self-employed residents and gig workers may qualify to deduct business-related expenses, including supplies, mileage, home office costs, and a portion of phone or internet bills used for work.

Volunteers can help determine which expenses are eligible and ensure forms are filed correctly.
Younger filers and students may also qualify for tax benefits they often overlook.

Students who paid tuition or mandatory fees may be eligible for education credits such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit. Those who worked part-time or held multiple jobs should ensure all W-2 and 1099 forms are reported accurately.

Young renters may qualify for the New York State renter’s credit, even if they live with roommates, depending on income and filing status. First-time filers, freelancers, and content creators who received 1099 income can deduct work-related expenses such as equipment, software subscriptions, and transportation used for income-generating activities.

Residents with limited English proficiency or unfamiliarity with the tax system may benefit from in-person assistance to avoid filing errors that could delay refunds or trigger audits.

Appointments can be scheduled online through NYC Free Tax Prep, or by calling 347-682-5606 to book by phone.