Tax Resources
You may also be eligible to have both your federal and state tax returns prepared and filed with using the free resources shared below.
Free Tax Filing Resource Sites:
Free File Tax Software
Trained Volunteer Tax Assistance
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.
General information on tax filing credits and resources can be found on the IRS and FTB webpage.