Last-minute tax tips: What you need to know for April 15 tax deadline

For Immediate Release

Sacramento – The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) reminded taxpayers today that April 15 is the deadline for most Californians to file and pay their 2024 taxes to avoid penalties.

FTB provided guidance on filing a tax return for free, claiming cash-back tax credits, avoiding scams, and making online tax payments.

"Tax Day is right around the corner, and I encourage Californians to take advantage of the free filing services offered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Franchise Tax Board,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen. "With IRS Direct File, qualifying taxpayers can quickly file their federal return online and then use CalFile to complete their state return. These free resources are designed to make filing easy, secure, and accessible for taxpayers."

Cash-back credits

Californians with an income up to $31,950 may 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 the age of six may receive up to $1,154 from the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), which, beginning with tax year 2022, does not require income if all other CalEITC and YCTC requirements are met. In addition, those earning less than $66,819 may also qualify for the federal EITC. Between CalEITC, YCTC, and the federal EITC, an eligible family could receive up to $12,628. The Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) provides up to $1,154 for tax year 2024.

CalEITC, YCTC, and FYTC are claimed by filing a state tax return. The federal EITC is claimed on a federal return.

Last year, over 3.5 million CalEITC credits were issued, with more than $1.4 billion back into the pockets of Californians. For a calculator to estimate credits and more, visit ftb.ca.gov/caleitc.

File for free

Most taxpayers can file their state tax returns electronically (e-file) and for free by using FTB's CalFile program. E-filing provides faster refunds, increased accuracy, and immediate confirmation that FTB has received a return. FTB recommends taxpayers opt for direct deposit to their bank accounts to ensure a timely and safe refund.

California has partnered with the IRS to offer taxpayers the ability to file their federal tax return for free using the IRS's new Direct File tax tool. It's fast, secure, and works on mobile devices. Visit IRS's Direct File program for additional information.

Free in-person tax preparation is available for low-to-moderate-income taxpayers through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Visit FTB's Get free tax help page to find the closest VITA location.

Find your answers online

Taxpayers are encouraged to use 24/7 online self-service options to avoid potential delays when contacting FTB. Self-service options include checking your refund status, making a payment, determining whether you should file, figuring out which form to file and viewing processing and wait times.

Tax relief for disasters

Taxpayers may deduct certain losses they suffered due to 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.

Visit FTB's Emergency tax relief page for more information.

Automatic tax filing extension

California taxpayers get an automatic extension to file until October 15 this year. However, any taxes owed must be deposited or postmarked by April 15, 2025. Taxpayers who are unsure of whether they will owe money can refer to FTB's Tax Calculator.

Los Angeles County individuals and businesses impacted by fires that began on January 7, 2025, qualify for a postponement to file and pay taxes until October 15, 2025. For more information visit Los Angeles County fires.

Beware of scams

FTB has received reports of a scam targeting taxpayers through text messages claiming to be from FTB. The texts include a link to a fraudulent version of FTB webpages designed to steal personal and banking information.

FTB urges taxpayers to protect themselves from scams. Scammers often prey on taxpayers by impersonating IRS or FTB employees. They may attempt to trick taxpayers into sending money not owed or providing personal information that could be used to file fraudulent returns and steal refunds. If a taxpayer receives a letter from FTB or the IRS that appears suspicious, contact FTB at 800.852.5711 or the IRS at 800.829.1040.

Concerned taxpayers can also visit FTB's Notices/letters and the IRS's Understanding your IRS notice or letter pages. Visit FTB's Scams page for more information on common types of scams and how to report them.

Help with tax payments

FTB encourages taxpayers who cannot pay their tax bill in full to file on time and pay as much as they can as soon as they can to limit penalties and interest. Payment plans are available on the FTB website for taxpayers facing financial hardship. People who owe $25,000 or less and can repay within five years generally qualify.

One-time penalty cancellation relief

Individual taxpayers may now be eligible for a one-time cancellation of a penalty for filing or paying their taxes late. To receive this relief, taxpayers must comply with all tax return filing requirements, have not previously been granted a one-time abatement, and have no outstanding tax liabilities (other than the timeliness penalty the taxpayer wants cancelled). The relief applies to tax year 2022 forward. For more information, visit FTB's One-time penalty abatement page or call 800.689.4776.

FTB administers two of California’s major tax programs: Personal Income Tax and the Corporation Tax. FTB also administers other non tax programs and delinquent debt collection functions, including delinquent vehicle registration debt collections on behalf of the Department of Motor Vehicles, and court–ordered debt. Annually, FTB’s tax programs collect more than 75 percent of the state’s general fund. For more information on other taxes and fees in California, visit: taxes.ca.gov.