It’s that time again. The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) kicked off the 2025 tax filing season this week by providing information regarding cash-back tax credits, disaster loss relief, and the advantages of filing and making payments electronically.
And we all already know the drill: Taxpayers must pay any taxes owed by April 15 to avoid penalties.
File your taxes for free
Eligible California taxpayers can file taxes for free with IRS Direct File and the State Franchise Tax Board CalFile. Direct File may be a good option if you:
- Lived in California for all of 2024.
- Earned all of your income in California in 2024.
- Plan to use the same filing status for both your federal and state tax returns.
- Have filed in California in the past five years.
- Are NOT using the filing status Married Filing Separately.
If you file your federal taxes online using Direct File, you will be directed to CalFile to complete your state tax return. CalFile allows most Californians to e-file their state tax returns quickly, easily, and for free.
Got questions about state tax? Get answers online
Use the State Franchise Tax Board (FTB) 24/7 online self-service options to avoid potentially long delays. Last year, millions of taxpayers visited the FTB website. Self-service options include checking your refund status, making a payment, determining whether you should file, figuring out which form to file and viewing our processing and wait times.
Cash Back credits
For 2024 tax year, Californians with income up to $31,950 might qualify for the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), which can provide cash back or lower any tax owed. Those eligible for CalEITC and with a child under six may receive up to $1,154 from the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC).
In addition, those earning less than $66,819 may also qualify for the federal EITC. Between CalEITC, YCTC, and the federal EITC, a family can receive up to $12,628.
The Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) provides up to $1,154 per eligible individual or up to $2,308 if both the primary taxpayer and spouse/registered domestic partner (RDP) qualify.
CalEITC, YCTC, and FYTC can be claimed by filing a state tax return, while the federal EITC is claimed on a federal return. For a calculator to estimate your credits and more, visit ftb.ca.gov/caleitc.
Tax relief for disasters
You may deduct any loss you suffered that was caused by a President or Governor declared disaster in California. Free copies of tax returns are available to disaster victims whose returns were lost or damaged. To receive these free copies, use Form FTB 3516 and write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of the request. For more information, including a complete list of all disasters declared in California, please refer to the FTB disaster loss webpage.
Electronic payments
The FTB offers several payment options to taxpayers. You can make direct deposit payments from your bank account via our Web Pay service, pay with a credit card (note that fees apply), or set up payment plans if you qualify (also subject to fees). For more information on all the payment options, please visit www.ftb.ca.gov/pay.
Additional reminders
In California, taxpayers can access free tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. To find a list of VITA program locations, visit ftb.ca.gov/vita.
Additionally, taxpayers can use MyFTB to view their tax documents, check balances due, send secure messages to FTB staff, and more. For additional free tax filing options, visit ftb.ca.gov/efile.
Be on the lookout for scams
Taxpayers should be vigilant against scams and take steps to protect themselves. Scammers often impersonate the IRS or FTB employees to trick taxpayers into sending money or providing personal information, which they can use to file fraudulent returns and steal refunds. If you receive a suspicious letter from the FTB or IRS, contact FTB at 800.852.5711 or the IRS at 800.829.1040. For more information, taxpayers can also check the FTB Letters page or the Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter.