COVID-19 STATE OF EMERGENCY
During this time of uncertainty, we’re supporting California businesses so they can focus on their health and personal priorities.
Relief & Extensions for Filing Returns
Effective March 30, 2020 all taxpayers who file a return less than $1 Million dollars will have an additional 3 months to file their return, between now and July 31, 2020.
If you qualify for this extension it is automatic and you do not need to apply.
If your tax liability of $1 million or more, you may still request an extension if you are unable to file and pay timely. These requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and taxpayers will be notified if their extension has been approved or denied. Please follow the directions below:
How to Request for an Extension to File Your Return or Prepayment
You may request relief of interest or penalties or request an extension for filing a return in one of the following ways:
Online
Log in to your online services account using your username and password. Please Note: Taxpayers cannot request relief using a limited access code. If you need help logging in, please watch one of our video tutorials.
Once you are logged in, please follow the steps below:
Select the account you would like to request an extension for below Accounts.
Select Request a Filing Extension located below I Want To.
Select the A disaster occurred, such as a fire, flood, storm, tidal wave, earthquake, or similar public calamity, whether or not resulting from natural causes, which has prevented the timely filing or payment option.
Complete the form.
Currently, we are receiving a high volume of requests. We will notify you when your request is processed.
Email or Letter
If you prefer, you may send us your request in writing via email or postal mail and include the following information:
First and Last Name
Account Number
Your Relation to the Account (owner, officer, bookkeeper, etc.)
Periods of Relief Requested
An explanation of why the requested relief should be granted
Email your request
to BTFD.RAUElectronicMaintenanceRequests@cdtfa.ca.gov
Mail letters to:
California Department of Tax and Fee Administration Return Analysis Unit, MIC:35 PO Box 942879 Sacramento, CA 94279-0035
We are also available to answer questions and provide help by phone. This includes assistance if you are unable to make a timely tax payment. Please call our Customer Service Center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711). Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Pacific time), except state holidays.
Extensions for Filing a Claim for Refund or Tax Appeal
The Executive Order issued on March 30, 2020, provides a 60-day extension for taxpayers to file a claim for refund for any refund that must otherwise be filed by July 31, 2020. The Executive Order also provides, through July 31, 2020, a 60-day extension for requesting a tax appeal with the Office of Tax Appeals.
Small Business Relief Payment Plans
Effective April 2, 2020, small business taxpayers, those with less than $5 million in taxable annual sales, can take advantage of a 12-month, interest-free, payment plan for up to $50,000 of sales and use tax liability.
Payment plan requests can be made through our online services system in the coming months. Please fill out this form and we will notify you when the system becomes available. Alternatively, you may contact our customer service center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711) if you are interested in being notified.
Payment Plan FAQ
Will a similar plan be created for special taxes accounts?
At this point, the program is only available for sales and use tax liabilities.
How will the payment plans work?
Qualifying sales and use taxpayers with deferred liabilities up to $50,000 will pay their tax due in 12 equal monthly installments. No interest or penalties will be assessed against the liability.
What if taxpayers owe more than the $50,000 limit on the relief?
The maximum amount that any taxpayer can defer, interest-free under this relief effort, is $50,000. If a taxpayer owes more than $50,000 and needs a payment plan for the amount over $50,000 we will have to have the taxpayer enter into one payment plan and adjust the appropriate amount of interest off toward the end of the 12 month period.
CDTFA Field Office & Motor Carrier Public Counters Temporarily Closed
As of March 23, 2020, CDTFA temporarily closed our local field office and motor carrier public counters to protect public health. We will continue to provide services via phone, video, mail, and online. Here are the many ways to reach us directly:
Visit us online on the CDTFA website.
Call us.
You can call our customer service center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711)
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time), except state holidays.
You can call or email your local CDTFA office.
Email – you can send us your general, non-confidential tax questions.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Watch our collection of "How To Videos" and other online instructional resources.
Write us by Mail:
California Department of Tax and Fee Administration P.O. Box 942879 Sacramento, CA 94279
Field Office & Public Counter FAQs
Will CDTFA provide in-person services during the COVID-19 pandemic?
All of our public counters are temporarily closed for in person services. If you have an extraordinary need, certain services will be made available by appointment only. Please visit our contact page to find the office email or phone number for assistance.
What if I want to make a tax payment at a local office?
Taxpayers requesting an office visit to make a tax payment should contact the department/local office to discuss the availability for an appointment.
What if I need to make a same-day payment at my local office?
You can send your payment to the address below. During this time, you will not be charged penalties or interest for late payments.
Write your CDTFA account number and return filing period on your check or money order.
California Department of Tax and Fee Administration PO Box 942879 Sacramento CA 94279-3535
