Ran out of e-files

New York state does not require a tax return to be e-filed if the software that is being used does not support e-filing of the tax return.

Go to this New York website for the e-file mandate for individual taxpayers - https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/efile/efile_mandate_for_individuals.htm

New York prefers e-filed returns, but there are certain circumstances that make it necessary for you to file your NY return by mail and the state DOES allow mailed returns.    If you could not or did not e-file your federal return then your NY return cannot be e-filed.   It has to be mailed.   It is not possible to e-file any state return if the federal return was not e-filed and accepted by the IRS.

https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/efile/efile_mandate_for_individuals.htm

https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/file/return_assembly_mail.htm

thanks - I originally efiled everything; this question is mostly about the part that I have to re-purchase the NY download if I want to efile.  

The five e-file restrictions are on original returns not amendments. You should be able to e-file an amendment for every return you e-filed original. Returns are not part of the e-file restriction, only the federal returns have the e-file restriction.