October 15 State Tax Extension Deadline Draws Near

2008-10-11 02:48:02 -

- The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today reminded taxpayers that Wednesday, October 15 is the deadline to file their 2007 state income tax returns on time to avoid late filing penalties.

"Unlike the Federal Government, the State of California automatically gives you an extension until October 15 to file your taxes," said State Controller and FTB Chair John Chiang.

"Each year nearly a million taxpayers use this extra time to file their California tax return."

FTB encourages taxpayers to use e-file and other e-services available on its website at www.ftb.ca.gov. Taxpayers can also access My FTB Account, an online service where taxpayers can view their wage and withholding information, estimated payments, FTB-issued 1099 data, and current balance information. E-filing provides faster refunds, increased accuracy, and timely confirmation that FTB received your return.

Services such as ReadyReturn and CalFile are available through October 15 and provide many taxpayers with free online e-file options. Taxpayers can also e-file using their tax preparer or other free or fee-based services offered on FTB's website. For quick refunds, FTB encourages taxpayers to opt for direct deposit.

FTB offers taxpayers electronic payment options as well. FTB's Web Pay is a secure online service that provides the convenience of online bill payment. Taxpayers can pay the current amount owed; plus, schedule future payments, such as estimated tax payments, for up to one year in advance. Taxpayers can also pay using their Discover/NOVUS, MasterCard, American Express, or Visa credit cards. To pay by credit card, taxpayers can call (800) 2PAY TAX ((800) 272-9829) or visit www.officialpayments.com. The vendor charges a convenience fee.

As of October 9, California taxpayers filed nearly 15.4 million personal income tax returns of which 10.3 million were e-filed. The state has issued 9.8 million refunds totaling $7.5 million.

Franchise Tax Board
Public Affairs Office, 916-845-4800
Denise Azimi, (cell) 916-502-2587
Denise.Azimi@ftb.ca.gov