I thought an e-file of a new york tax return was free by law?

[Bsch4477]

I am under the impression that efile for NY is free. 

[Critter-3]

You are confused  ... the FEE for the use of the TT  program to complete a FED & NY returns when using the online program.  Efiling the fed & state returns are always free when using the online program.   

[Critter-3]

If you use the downloaded program ... Deluxe version or better come with the state program included in the fee for the program.  Efiling NY is always free ... all other states will pay a fee to efile or you can print, ink sign and mail in the state returns for free. 

[DonB10]

I am confused by the significance of 1st sentence in the reply.  What is the E-filing of a NYS tax return have to do without the FEE charged?

[xmasbaby0]

@DonB10 There are differences in the price structuring of online TurboTax and the CD/download.   When you use online, you pay separate fees for preparing a federal return and for a state return.   Everyone pays for the state software with online---no matter what state you prepare a return for.   With online, there are no extra fees to e-file your federal or state returns.

With the CD/download, even if the software includes the software to prepare a state return, you pay an extra fee if you e-file the state return------except if you are e-filing a New York return.   There is no fee to e-file a New York return.   With any other state, there is a fee of $20 to e-file the state return, which increases to $25 in March.   With the CD/download, you can avoid paying to e-file the state by sending in your state return by mail.