New York State Monday issued its first refunds of the 2014 income tax season.

The state Department of Taxation and Finance sent out 87 refunds, totaling more than $15,000. The amount, which averaged $183 per taxpayer, was paid via direct deposit.

The taxpayers receiving refunds used the department’s new Income Tax Web File, which allows state tax returns to be prepared and filed electronically for free.

 “If you’re in the 10 percent who filed paper returns last year .?.?. E-filing is safer, faster and more accurate than paper filing -- and you’ll get your refund at least twice as fast,” said state Tax Commissioner Thomas H. Mattox.

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Maduro, wife arrive for court ... Kids celebrate Three Kings Day ... Out East: Custer Institute and Observatory ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV

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