Do I Need to File a California State Tax Return?

Not sure if you need to file taxes in California? Let us help you decide. Generally, you must file a California tax return if you’re a resident, part-year resident, or nonresident and:

• Are required to file a federal tax return
• Earn income from a source in California
• Have income over a certain threshold

Other filing requirements and information

Even if your income is below the thresholds, you may still have a filing requirement if you are married/RDP filing separately with separate property income or if you want to include the income of one or more dependents in your return.

What form do I need to file California state taxes?

California residents use Form 540 to file their individual income tax return.

What is the filing deadline for my California income tax return?

The filing deadline for California state tax returns is April 15, 2025. If you requested an extension, your taxes are also due on October 15, 2025.