What is the penalty for not filing a California return?

The penalty is 5% of the tax owed for each month the return is late, up to 25% of total tax due.

How long does it take to get a refund after filing a California return?

Most electronic filers get their refund within 2 weeks. Paper returns can take 6-8 weeks.

What happens if I file my California resident tax return late?

You will owe the late filing penalty plus interest charges on any tax owed. It may also affect your eligibility for certain deductions and credits.

California Resident Income Tax Return 540 2EZ (2022)

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Understanding California Resident Income Tax Return

The California Resident Income Tax Return, also known as Form 540 2EZ, is the income tax return form filed by California residents to report income, calculate taxes owed, claim deductions and credits, and pay any tax due to the state of California.

Who needs to file a California Resident Income Tax Return

You must file a California tax return if you meet the following requirements:

You were a California resident for all or part of the tax year. This includes full-year residents and part-year residents.
Your California gross income exceeds the amounts based on your filing status. For example, you must file for single filers in 2022 if your gross income exceeds $19,784.
You want to claim a refund for California taxes that were withheld or estimated payments made.

Requirements for Filing a California Resident Income Tax Return

To file a California resident tax return, you must:

Use Form 540 2EZ if you meet the eligibility requirements for this simplified form. Otherwise, use Form 540.
Report all taxable income received from inside and outside California.
Calculate your California tax liability based on your income and filing status.
Claim applicable deductions and credits you qualify for.
Pay any taxes owed by the filing deadline or claim a refund.

How to File a California Resident Income Tax Return

Follow these steps to file your California resident tax return:

1. Gather Necessary Tax Documents

W-2 forms for wages earned;
1099 forms for interest, dividends, unemployment, and other income;
Receipts for deductions and credits.

2. Fill Out the Tax Forms

Form 540 2EZ if you qualify or Form 540;
Schedule CA for adjustments and credits.

3. Calculate Tax Amounts

Total up income, deductions, exemptions;
Use tax tables to determine tax amount;
Claim applicable credits like renter's credit.

4. File by the Deadline

April 15 for most taxpayers;
October 15 deadline for filing extensions.

5. Pay Any Taxes Owed

Pay tax amount due when you file;
Or pay estimated quarterly payments.

Tips for Filing Your California Resident Tax Return

Follow these tips when preparing your California resident income tax return:

Avoid common mistakes like missing deductions or credits, math errors, and filing status errors.
Maximize your deductions and credits by carefully reviewing qualifications for items like the renter's credit, child care credit, and EITC.
Get help filing from a tax preparer or free volunteer programs if you need assistance.
File electronically and use direct deposit for faster processing and refunds.
Keep a copy of your tax return and supporting documents.

Form Versions

2019 Fillable California Form 540 2EZ for 2019 Fill Out Form

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for not filing a California return?

The penalty is 5% of the tax owed for each month the return is late, up to 25% of total tax due.
How long does it take to get a refund after filing a California return?

Most electronic filers get their refund within 2 weeks. Paper returns can take 6-8 weeks.
What happens if I file my California resident tax return late?

You will owe the late filing penalty plus interest charges on any tax owed. It may also affect your eligibility for certain deductions and credits.

California Resident Income Tax Return (2022)