Tax Assistance

The library has resources and assistance for you this income tax season.

IN-PERSON INCOME TAX PREPARATION ASSISTANCE

The Washington Ave. Branch is hosting in-person tax preparation assistance. Two partners, the NYS Taxpayer Assistance Program (TAP) and IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), are providing these free services.

Preparation Assistance Program (TAP) | Mondays through April 14 | First and third Tuesdays of the month through April 1

• NYS tax department employees help you prepare and e-file your state and federal tax returns through the TAP program.
• To qualify for this free guided assistance, your 2024 income must be $84,000 or less.
• Appointments are required and are made through the TAP website. Select “Albany Public Library” from the list and click on “Register” to select a date and time for your appointment at the Washington Ave. Branch (161 Washington Ave.).
• Information about what documents to bring to your appointment are listed on the TAP website. 

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) | Thursdays | Now through April 10

• IRS certified and trained volunteers prepare your federal and state income tax returns for you through the VITA program.
• To qualify for the free tax preparation, your 2024 income must be $67,000 or less.
• Also, you cannot have rental income, a 2current bankruptcy declaration, or self-employment involving deductions for employees or inventory. (Ride share employees generally do qualify for services.)
• Appointments are required and are made through the VITA website. Select “ALBANY PUBLIC LIBRARY” from the list and click “BOOK” to select a date and time for your appointment at the Washington Ave. Branch (161 Washington Ave.).
• Information about what documents to bring to your appointment are listed on the VITA website. 

TAX FORMS

All branches stock basic Federal and New York State tax forms for individual filers. Please call or visit the reference desk of your local branch to learn what forms are available there.