New York Unable to E-File Due to Federal Unable to E-File
To prevent fraud, TaxAct requires that your federal return be e-filed through its platform before e-filing your state return. If your federal return was not e-filed—whether due to IRS restrictions or because it wasn’t required—you must paper-file your state return.
For New York taxpayers, e-filing is generally required. However, an exception allows paper filing if your software does not support e-filing in your situation. When mailing your New York return, include a note explaining that you are paper-filing because your federal return could not be e-filed.
How to Print and Mail Your Return:
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Access Your TaxAct Return
- In TaxAct, click Filing.
- On smaller devices, open the menu in the upper left corner, then select Filing.
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Select Paper Filing
- Click Mail Paper Return and proceed to the “Paper Filing Step – Print Options” screen.
- Choose the return(s) you wish to print and mail.
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Address New York’s E-Filing Alert
- If you see a “New York State – E-Filing Requirement” warning, you may disregard it.
- Include a note with your return explaining the reason for paper filing.
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Print and Review Instructions
- Follow the prompts to print your New York return.
- The final screen will provide mailing instructions.
- If printing your federal return as well, follow the separate prompts.
Important Reminders:
- Carefully review all instructions before mailing.
- Attach required documents (e.g., W-2s, 1099s, schedules).
- Verify refund or payment details, including estimated tax payments.