How to Get Your California State Tax Refund

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Categories: How Tos

  • If you filed or are filing a California tax return and your withholdings exceed your tax liability, you might be entitled to a California State Tax Refund. This page will describe what you need to do to get some money in your pocket and to get your return processed quickly so you can get your California state tax refund.

  • Tips for Getting Your California Tax Refund

    1. Make sure the information on your tax return is complete and correct.
    2. E-file for fastest processing time.
    3. Choose direct deposit to get your money faster.
    4. Put money in your pocket now by filing a DE 4 form with your employer to decrease your state withholdings.

  • Disclaimer

    The content in this page is not a substitute for professional financial advice. Please contact your financial adviser before using the information presented here.

  • Introduction

    • If you have lived and worked in California this year, you may have to file a California State Tax Return. And if your allowances outnumber your withholdings, you may be expecting a refund. But where is it? This guide will explain what you should expect in waiting for your refund and help you get your money as quickly as possible.

  • Step 1: File Your Return

    • Before you can get your refund, you have to file your taxes. Keep in mind that taxes are due April 15 and the sooner you file, the sooner you are eligible for a refund.
    1. Decide if you want to file on your own, or if you want to hire a tax professional or tax preparation service.
      1. California accepts the following tax preparers: registered preparers, enrolled agents and certified public accountants.State of California Franchise Tax Board: Make Informed Decisions When Paying for Income Tax Preparation Services
      2. Make sure to check the preparer's credentials.
    2. Choose the type of form you want to file (e.g., 540, 540A, or 540 2EZ).
    3. File your taxes electronically. E-filing is the fastest way to process your return and get your refund. There are many programs available.State of California Franchise Tax Board: Do-It-Yourself e-file from FTB and Software Companies
      1. You might be able to e-file for free using CalFile if you meet the program's eligibility requirements. Review the 2008 qualifications for CalFile here.State of California Franchise Tax Board: FTB's Free and Direct e-File for California Resident Returns
      2. You may also be eligible for a new program within CalFile called ReadyReturn.
    4. If you can't e-file, you do have the option of mailing a paper return. Keep in mind, though, paper returns take longer to process.

  • Errors to Avoid

    • It's easy to overlook small errors or typos. To ensure you don't waste time by having to make corrections later on, check over your return before filing. Here are some tips:
    1. Double check your social security number.
    2. Check your adjusted gross income amount.
    3. Make sure you use the correct standard deduction amount or the correct itemized deduction amount.State of California Franchise Tax Board: Personal Income Tax Errors
    4. Check the total tax amount.
    5. Look over your name and address.
      1. Make sure you use the correct spelling.
      2. Use the correct zip code.
      3. Double check the street and apartment numbers.
    6. Make sure you signed the form.

  • Step 2: Choose Your Refund Method

    • When you file your tax return, you will be asked how you want to receive your refund.
    1. Direct deposit. This is the fastest way to get your refund. Once released, the money will be deposited into your checking account. You will need:
      1. Your bank routing number.
      2. Your bank account number.
      3. The type of bank account (i.e., savings or checking).
    2. Paper check via the mail.
      1. This is the default method.
      2. Make sure the mailing address on the return is correct.

  • Step 3: Check Your Refund Status

    • You may want to check the status of your refund. To check your status online:
    1. Go to the State of California Franchise Tax Board's Refund Status website.
    2. Click the Check Refund button.
    3. You will be taken to a Privacy screen; click Continue.
    4. Enter the following information where prompted:
      1. Your social security number.
      2. The numbers of your mailing address.
      3. The refund amount shown on your tax return.
    5. Click Login.
    • You can also call the State of California Franchise Tax Board directly at (800) 852-5711.State of California Franchise Tax Board: Refund Check Status

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