Tax Season FAQ's

TAX SEASON 2026

Listed below are some of the frequently asked questions we receive during tax season:

Q: How can I check the status of my income tax refund online?

A: You can check the status online (this is the recommended method):

Federal: http://www.irs.gov/Refunds
NY State: http://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/file/refund.htm

Q: What if I have questions about the status of my income tax refund?

A: Both the IRS and NY State have a web page dedicated to tax return status FAQ's:

Federal: https://www.irs.gov/Refunds/Tax-Season-Refund-Frequently-Asked-Questions
NY State: http://www.tax.ny.gov/e-services/pris/understanding-refund-status.htm

Q: Can I pay my federal and/or NY State balance due by either a bank account debit or by credit card?
A: Yes. Here are the links:

Federal: http://www.irs.gov/Payments
NY State: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pay/ind/pay-income-tax-online.htm

Q: What if I can't pay my balance due by April 15th?
A: You should always file your income tax return in a timely fashion to avoid a late-filing penalty. If you cannot pay

the entire balance due, pay as much as possible with your return to minimize penalties and interest. (more ...)

Q: Can I set up an installment payment agreement to pay my balance due over time?

A: Yes. Here are the lnks to set up a payment agreement:

Federal: http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Payment-Plans-Installment-Agreements

NY State: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pay/ipa/

Q: What should I do if I think I'm the victim of Identity Theft?
A: IRS Publication 5027 outlines the warning signs, and the various steps you should take.

Q: Do certain home improvements in 2025 still qualify for any tax credits?
A: In 2025, U.S. homeowners can claim two main types of federal energy credits for home improvements and clean energy installations:

1) the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, and
2) the Residential Clean Energy Credit

Both credits expired on December 31, 2025, due to recent legislation.