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State Controller John Chiang

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Use Online Filing Services

California’s new program ReadyReturn makes the filing process simple by doing the work for you.  It computes your return using information the State already has, and only requires your review.  Over one million taxpayers with basic reporting requirements are eligible.  The State also offers its own free filing service, CalFile, in English and Spanish.  CalFile can handle more complicated returns that include itemized reductions and some tax credits.

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Get the Credit You Deserve

The Earned Income Tax Credit supports low-income working families and individuals by reducing their taxes or providing them with a larger refund.  You qualify if you lived with more than one child and earned no more than $37,783 ($39,783 if married and filing jointly) in 2007. With one qualifying child, you can earn up to $33,241 ($35,241 if married filing jointly) and still qualify. With no qualifying children, you can make up to $12,590 ($14,590 married filing jointly).

 

Document Your Donations

Taxpayers need to keep paper records for all cash donations, regardless of the amount.  The record must include the name of the charity as well as the date and amount of the contribution.

Let Volunteers Help

Volunteers in the State Controller’s Los Angeles and Sacramento offices will provide free assistance to low-income taxpayers this year.  They will also visit other sites to help taxpayers in the Counties of Kern, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and Santa Clara. Visit the FTB website to find more volunteer locations.  

Know What You Have Already Paid

Some taxpayers make monthly payments of “estimated taxes” throughout the year. But overstating those payments is the most common error made on tax returns. The FTB website can help you track those payments and the tax you have already paid.  

Speed Up Your Refund.

Taxpayers who file online and have their refunds issued by direct deposit often get refunds within a week.  It will take six to eight weeks it can take for paper returns and check-issued refunds. 

Need Extra Time?

California automatically gives taxpayers a filing extension on their State returns to October 15.  But if you owe tax this year, make sure to pay that amount by April 15 in order to avoid interest and penalties. If you can’t afford to pay by April 15, you can request a payment plan online.  You will generally qualify if you owe less than $25,000 and can pay your taxes within five years.    

 

Controller John Chiang, who also is Chairman of the State Franchise Tax Board, is offering free income tax assistance for low-income families at the State Controller’s offices in Los Angeles and Sacramento. Please see our Taxpayer Assistance Locations page for details.