If you filed or are going to file a California tax return and your withholdings exceed your tax liability, you might be entitled to a state tax refund. Filing your state return electronically will expedite the process, allowing quicker access to your refund money.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/online/refund/index.asp 

A tax refund is essentially an interest-free loan you gave to the government. You can also choose to reduce your estimates and/or withholdings to try to get closer to the actual amount of your tax liability so you will no longer have a refund. If you decide to go this route, make sure you consult a tax professional to assist with calculation, so that you can avoid penalties and owing interest when you file your return.http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=96596,00.html

Before you can get your refund, you have to file your taxes. Keep in mind that taxes are due April 18, 2011 and the sooner you file, the sooner you will be 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.
   2. Make sure to check the preparer's credentials.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf 
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.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/efile/allsoftware.shtml
   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.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/online/calfile/index.asp
   2. You may also be eligible for a new program within CalFile called ReadyReturn.
4. If you cannot e-file, you do have the option of mailing a paper return. Keep in mind, though, paper returns take longer to process.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf
   

Make sure you do not waste time by having to make corrections later on by checking your return before filing. Here are some tips:

1. Double check your social security number.
2. Check your adjusted gross income amount.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf 
3. Make sure you use the correct standard deduction amount or the correct itemized deduction amount.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/2008/08_761PIT.pdf
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.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf 

Even if you hired a tax preparer, you still need to make sure all of this information is correct. You are ultimately responsible for the information submitted.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf 

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.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/online/refund/index.asp
      

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 on (800) 852-5711.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/online/refund/index.asp

Before you can get your refund, you have to file your taxes. Keep in mind that taxes are due April 18, 2011 and the sooner you file, the sooner you will be 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.
   2. Make sure to check the preparer's credentials.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf 
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.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/efile/allsoftware.shtml
   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.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/online/calfile/index.asp
   2. You may also be eligible for a new program within CalFile called ReadyReturn.
4. If you cannot e-file, you do have the option of mailing a paper return. Keep in mind, though, paper returns take longer to process.http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/982.pdf