California State Tax Extension: A Comprehensive Guide

Filing taxes can be stressful, especially when dealing with missing documents or complex financial situations.

Luckily, the state of California gives you an automatic 6-month extension to file your taxes.

This guide covers everything you need to know about filing a tax extension, including California tax deadlines, penalties, and tips.

Do I Need to File a Separate Tax Extension for California if I Have Already Filed a Federal Tax Extension?

No, you do not need to file a separate tax extension request, as the state of California grants an automatic 6-month tax extension to October 15th, 2024.

When is the Deadline for Filing a Tax Extension in California?

There is no set deadline for filing a tax extension request in California. California grants an automatic 6-month extension until October 15th, 2024 to file your taxes.

How Do I File a California Tax Extension?

You do not need to do anything to file a California state tax extension as it is granted automatically.

If you think you owe taxes, use Form FTB 3519 to make an extension payment by mail. You can also pay online here. This helps you avoid late-payment penalties and interest.

Do I Need to Pay Taxes When I File a Tax Extension for California?

Yes, you need to pay any taxes owed by the original due date: April 15th, 2024.

The extension gives you more time to file your return but not to pay your taxes.

Making an estimated tax payment with Form FTB 3519 or online can help you avoid penalties and interest.

Work with Our Experts!

You may not need to file a tax extension for California, but if you want extra time to file your federal taxes, you'll need to file a federal tax extension request. We can help. Click here to get started.

What Are the Penalties for Filing My Taxes Late in California?

If you file your California state tax return after the extended October 15th, 2024 deadline, you may face a late-filing penalty.

This penalty is generally 5% of the amount due for each month or part of a month your tax liability remains unpaid, up to a maximum penalty amount of 25%.

What Are the Penalties for Paying My Taxes Late in California?

You'll incur a late-payment penalty if you don't pay your California state taxes by April 15th, 2024.

This penalty is typically 0.5% of the unpaid tax amount per month (not to exceed 40 months) the tax remains unpaid and 5% of the underpayment amount.

How Do I Know Whether I Should File a Tax Extension for California?

As California grants an automatic 6-month tax extension, it's up to you whether you want to file by April 15th, 2024 or October 15th, 2024.

Consider waiting if you need more time to gather documents, ensure accuracy, or consult with a tax professional.

This is especially important if you have complex financial situations involving business tax returns or quarterly estimated tax payments.

Is There Anything Else I Need to Know About Filing a California State Tax Extension?

When it comes to the state of California, there are a few additional points to keep in mind:

1. Excise Tax Returns: If you have excise taxes due (such as those related to fuel or environmental taxes), you can refer here to find the due dates for these taxes.

2. Estimated Tax Payments: Estimated tax payments are due quarterly in the state of California. In 2024, the payment due dates are April 15th (30% of total taxes due), June 17th (40% of total taxes due), September 16th (0% of total taxes due), and January 15th, 2025 (30% of total taxes due).

3. Disaster Relief Extensions: For a taxpayer in a federally declared disaster area, additional time may be granted for various tax-related actions. The IRS's Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and Businesses page provides detailed information on which returns, payments, and actions qualify for extra time. Taxpayers in affected areas do not need to file for an extension; it is automatically granted.

   California Tax Statistics: A Snapshot of 2022

   

   Average Tax Refund Amounts

   According to a Smartasset.com study, the average tax refund amount for California residents in 2022 was $1,666 compared to the US national average of $1,798.

Not Sure Where to Start? Let Us Help!

Get started filing your tax extension now to get an additional 6 months to file your federal tax return.

Conclusion

California grants you an automatic 6-month tax extension to accurately prepare and file your tax return.

However, it doesn't extend the time to pay any taxes owed. Make necessary estimated tax payments by the tax payment due date to avoid penalties and interest.

Knowing the rules and deadlines can help you manage your tax obligations effectively, especially in complex situations.