California Income Tax

California income tax is a state tax that covers the earnings of individuals. The money that is collected is used for various purposes, such as education, public health, and law enforcement. Individuals must file a California income tax return if they earn more than a certain amount. The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is responsible for collecting this tax. The tax rates in California are progressive, meaning that they increase as your income increases. The top marginal rate is 13.3%, and there is also an additional 1% tax on incomes above $1 million. This makes California one of the most expensive states for millionaires.

In addition to income taxes, California has some of the highest sales tax rates in the country. This tax is collected on most retail purchases and can vary by city. The state also taxes corporations at a rate of 8.84 percent. In 2022, the top 1% of earners paid more than half of all California income taxes. This system depends on wealthy taxpayers to fund state government but is vulnerable to boom-and-bust cycles. Capital gains tax revenues plummet when the economy slumps and school districts hand out pink slips to teachers.

California Income Tax Due Date

The IRS announced Monday it would further extend tax deadlines for Californians impacted by last winter’s wildfires, floods, and mudslides. The normal spring filing and payment deadlines have now been pushed back to Nov. 16 for individuals and businesses who live or work in counties that qualify for federal disaster relief under three different FEMA declarations. Fifty-five of California’s 58 counties qualify, including those hit hardest by the winter storms and flooding.

California Income Tax Extension

The tax extension also applies to estimated tax payments, which are normally due on April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year. It’s important to keep track of these dates to avoid underpayment penalties and to ensure you file your return on time.

Proactively managing tax payments and filings is essential to your financial success in the Golden State. Be aware of the key tax dates, and make sure to stay informed about changes to laws and rates. Professional tax planning services or software can help ease your tax filing burden. And don’t forget that IRA and health savings account contributions have their own tax deadlines, which can vary by region.