October 15 tax filing deadline approaching

For Immediate Release

Sacramento - The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) reminded taxpayers today that Tuesday, October 15, 2024, is the deadline for filing 2023 state personal income tax returns to avoid a late filing penalty.

"I want to remind Californians that by filing their state tax return they can claim the California Earned Income, Young Child, and Foster Youth tax credits if they meet income and other eligibility requirements," said State Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen. "Combined, these cash-back credits can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the hands of families facing economic challenges."

Each year, Californians file close to 20 million state personal income tax returns. FTB has received about 18 million returns so far this year, 95% of them filed electronically, and expects to receive close to 2 million more by October 15. So far this year, California has issued about 13.5 million refunds to individuals, totaling more than $17.9 billion.

File for free, free tax help, and FTB pay online services

Most taxpayers can file their state tax return electronically, free of charge, using FTB's CalFile program. CalFile and a list of other free or fee-based e-file services are available on FTB's website. FTB recommends taxpayers opt for direct deposit to their bank accounts to ensure a timely and safe refund. E-filing provides faster refunds, increased accuracy, and immediate confirmation that FTB has received the return.

Taxpayers are also encouraged to use FTB's electronic payment option Web Pay. It allows taxpayers to authorize a tax payment from a bank account. Individual taxpayers can use their MyFTB account to securely access and view their tax information and schedule payments.

Cash back credits

Californians with income up to $30,950 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 the age of six may receive up to $1,117 from the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC). For tax year 2022 forward, no earned income is required to receive YCTC if all other CalEITC and YCTC requirements are met. In addition, those earning less than $63,398 may also qualify for the federal EITC. Between CalEITC, YCTC, and the federal EITC, a family can receive up to $12,076.

For tax year 2023, the Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) provides up to $1,117 per eligible individual or up to $2,234 if both primary taxpayer and spouse/registered domestic partner (RDP) qualify.

CalEITC, YCTC, and FYTC are claimed by filing a state tax return. The federal EITC is claimed on a federal return. For a calculator to estimate your credits and more, visit: ftb.ca.gov/caleitc.

Disaster information

FTB has updated its disaster tax relief webpage. For more information, visit Emergency Tax Relief.

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 70 percent of the state's general fund. For more information on other taxes and fees in California, visit: taxes.ca.gov.