New York-based independent film producers, don't miss the window to submit your incentive application – open now till April 30.
The New York State Independent Film Tax Credit Program opened its first 2026 application window on January 12, offering $100 million in annual funding for eligible independent film productions shooting in New York State.
Designed specifically to support independent productions, this program is separate from the general New York production tax credit, and is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Mark your calendar with these key application dates:
The first 2026 application window for the NYS Independent Film Tax Credit opened January 12, 2026 at 10am EST. Applications will be accepted through the end of April, pending availability of funds within the $100 million annual allocation.
- Pool 1 projects (qualified costs of $10 million or less): This pool is no longer accepting applications as of January 13, 2026, 5 pm EST
- Pool 2 projects (qualified costs over $10 million): The portal will remain open through April 30, 2026, at 4pm EDT, pending availability of funds.
Note: A second application window for all independent projects is scheduled to open on July 13, 2026 at 10am EDT and run to July 16, 2026 at 4pm EDT.
NYS independent film tax credit program highlights
The program offers numerous benefits to productions who qualify, including a competitive credit supported by uplifts and a quick claim turnaround.
- Competitive credit amount: 30% refundable tax credit on eligible in-state expenditures.
- Regional uplift: Rates can increase to 40% for productions filming in designated counties.
- Production Plus bonus: Repeat applicants meeting specific spending thresholds may be eligible for an additional 5–10% credit on subsequent productions.
- Faster monetization: Unlike the general NYS Production Tax Credit (which currently has lengthy wait times for allocation years), this credit can be claimed in the year your project is completed.
- Eligibility: Open to "qualified independent film production companies" (entities that are not majority-owned by a publicly traded company).
- Funding allocation: The $100 million annual fund is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Producers, begin preparing your application now!
Because the tax credit funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding does not roll over, we strongly recommend preparing your materials immediately to ensure timely submission when the application window opens on January 12, 2026.
How to apply for the tax credit:
Producers can review official guidelines and access the New York State Independent Film Tax Credit Project Summary Form via the Empire State Development website:
https://esd.ny.gov/new-york-state-independent-film-production-tax-credit-program
Note: The online application is located in the "Application Materials" section under "Project Summary”.
If you have questions regarding your production's eligibility or need assistance preparing your application, please reach out to your account manager or the EP Incentives Team today.
