Who does the California tax deadline extension apply to? Here’s when you need to file
Most Californians don’t have to file their taxes by the federal deadline on Tuesday, as other taxpayers and procrastinators scramble to get their returns in at the last minute.
Here’s what to know about filing your taxes in California this year:
When is the federal tax filing deadline?
Those with an extended deadline are considered “disaster area” taxpayers due to the onslaught of atmospheric river storms that plagued the state in early 2023.
Who qualifies? The IRS extended the federal filing deadline to the fall for residents and businesses in most California counties.
This applies not only to standard individual returns but to those who make quarterly estimated tax payments.
More on the extension also can be found on the California Franchise Tax Board’s website.
Deadline: Oct. 16, unless you live in one of the counties listed below.
When is the California tax filing deadline?
California followed its federal counterparts in issuing an extension for state returns using the same criteria. The state deadline for most: Oct. 16.
If you live in the following counties, file both your state and federal taxes by the April 18 deadline:
- Lassen
- Modoc
- Shasta
Should you file your taxes now anyway?
If you want your refund soon, yes. The sooner you file the sooner you’d get any applicable refund.
Should I claim my California Middle Class Tax Refund as income?
No.
Both the IRS and the state Franchise Tax Board have said the Middle Class Tax Refund, which many residents received in 2022, is not considered income and is, therefore, not taxed.
If you claimed it on your federal return before the IRS issued guidance on Feb. 10, you’ll need to file an amendment. First, double-check to make sure it was taxed before filing again.