Quick answer: TR-579-IT authorizes an electronic return originator (ERO) to e-file specified New York personal income-tax returns and, when applicable, transmit electronic-withdrawal bank information. The taxpayer reviews Part A, signs Part B, and the ERO or paid preparer completes Part C. Do not mail the form to New York.
This guide explains the federal or state rule in practical filing terms. It uses the latest official material available on August 15, 2026; always use the form and instructions for the tax year you are filing because line numbers, limits and procedures can change.
At a glance
| Question | Practical answer |
|---|---|
| Who this applies to | Taxpayers using a paid preparer or ERO to e-file covered New York personal returns |
| What it does not cover | Self-filed returns, partnership or corporation authorizations, or extension-payment authorization on TR-579.1-IT |
| Where it is handled | The ERO retains TR-579-IT for three years and presents it to the Tax Department only on request |
How the rule works
Start with the legal character of the payment, transaction, benefit or form—not the label used in an advertisement or summary. Tax results can differ when ownership, timing, filing status, residency, basis, participation or documentation changes. The controlling return instructions should be reconciled with all information statements before filing.
- Part A copies federal adjusted gross income, refund, amount owed and authorized bank-account data from the electronic return.
- Both spouses sign Part B for a jointly filed return.
- Part B authorizes filing and any indicated electronic funds withdrawal; read the declaration before signing.
- The ERO and paid preparer complete Part C, with a limited signature exception when one person serves both roles.
- A payment withdrawal can be revoked only by contacting the Tax Department no later than two business days before the payment date.
Practical example
A married couple reviews the completed IT-201, confirms Part A amounts and bank digits, and both sign Part B. Their preparer signs Part C, e-files the return and keeps TR-579-IT. The couple does not mail the authorization with a paper copy.
The example isolates the main rule and is not a tax calculation for every fact pattern. Other income, deductions, state conformity, related-party rules and prior-year carryovers can change the final result.
Step-by-step checklist
- Use the TR-579-IT for the exact tax year.
- Match Part A to the final electronic return.
- Verify routing, account number, type, amount and date.
- Obtain every required taxpayer and preparer signature before transmission.
- Give the taxpayer a copy and retain the original for three years.
Keep copies of the filed return, schedules, source documents, calculations and submission confirmation. If an issuer or agency document is wrong, request a correction instead of silently changing a number without an explanatory record.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Signing before the return amounts are final.
- Using TR-579-IT for an extension or partnership return.
- Mailing the authorization to the Tax Department.
A tax software interview can help transfer information, but it cannot verify an uncertain legal classification or recreate missing evidence. Pause and obtain advice from a credentialed tax professional or the responsible agency when the dollars are material or the facts are unusual.
Related NavajoTax guides
For connected planning and reporting issues, see New York Form NYC-202, document-management compliance. Read related pages as a topic cluster, but follow the year-specific official form for the return you actually file.
Frequently asked questions
Can TR-579-IT be signed electronically?
Yes, when the signature method follows New York's e-file authorization guidance.
Does one spouse sign a joint return?
No. The current form states that both spouses must complete and sign it.
Can the bank withdrawal be changed after filing?
Contact the Tax Department within the stated revocation window; the ERO should not promise a last-minute cancellation.
Sources reviewed
Last reviewed: August 15, 2026. This article provides general educational information, not individualized tax, legal, investment or benefits advice.