Tax Resources

You may be eligible to e-file your California return directly with the Franchise Tax Board using CalFile. The CalFile tool is free, safe and secure, and allows you to e-file your state tax return directly through the site. You will receive real-time confirmation, and the fastest refund possible using direct deposit.

CalFile registration requirements:

• Use CalFile and all MyFTB services (account sign-up on CalFile)
• To register, you must have filed a California tax return for 1 of the last 5 years.
• Most people can create an account in real-time. You may receive your PIN in the mail.

To get started go to: CalFile

The Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) is a free tool that guides you to determine if you are required to file a federal tax return or if you should file to receive a refund.

Based on your input, the tool can determine if you have to file a tax return, your filing status, if you can claim a dependent, if the type of income you have is taxable, if you are eligible to claim a credit, or if you can deduct expenses.

Before you begin, here is the information you will need to have:

• Filing status (e.g. single, married, married-filing single etc.)
• Federal income tax withheld
• Basic information to help you determine your gross income

To get started go to: Do I need to file a tax return?

NOTE: Whether you NEED to file a return or not will not influence whether you receive your Earned Income Tax Credit or many other credits. Filing your income tax return is a good way to increase your annual income.