For Immediate Release

October 15 tax filing deadline approaching

Sacramento - The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) reminded taxpayers today that Wednesday, October 15, 2025, is the deadline for filing 2024 state personal income tax returns to avoid a late filing penalty.

“October 15 is the deadline for Californians who still need to file their 2024 state tax return,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen. “This is also the time to claim valuable credits like the California Earned Income Tax Credit, which can provide meaningful support for families. I also urge taxpayers to be cautious, since scammers often use tax deadlines to trick people into sharing personal or financial information. Always protect yourself and use trusted tax preparation services.”

Each year, Californians file close to 20 million state personal income tax returns. FTB has received about 18 million returns so far this year, with 95% of them filed electronically. To date, California has issued about 13.2 million refunds to individuals, totaling more than $18.4 billion.

File for free and FTB pay online services

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.

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.

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.

To estimate California credits and more, visit ftb.ca.gov/caleitc.

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.

Los Angeles County Disaster Relief & Assistance Reminder - Postponement Relief Expires 10/15/2025

Individuals and businesses with their principal residence, or principal place of business, in Los Angeles County during the fires that began January 7, 2025, qualify for a postponement to file and pay taxes until October 15, 2025. To notify FTB, affected taxpayers must write the name of the disaster (e.g., LA County Fires) at the top of their tax return for paper filed returns. Taxpayers who file electronically need to follow their software instructions to enter disaster information.

Only income tax filings and payments due between January 7, 2025, and October 15, 2025, qualify. Individuals and businesses do not need to file FTB 3872 as the California and federal postponement periods are the same for the Los Angeles County disaster.

Visit Los Angeles County fires and disaster declaration tax payments for more information.

Disaster assistance

Los Angeles County individuals and businesses who did not mark “disaster” on their tax returns and received penalty notices, or taxpayers and tax professionals who have questions about disaster relief, should contact FTB:

Email:

LA County Disaster Relief

Phone:

888-825-9868 (operative through October 15, 2025)

Online:

MyFTB

The email address and phone number options are only for individuals and businesses affected by the Los Angeles County disaster. The designated phone number will remain active through October 15, 2025, and the dedicated email will remain available thereafter.

For frequently asked questions, visit Help with Los Angeles County fire relief.