California income tax at a glance
- Taxes wage income
- Yes
- 2026 structure
- Graduated, top rate 13.3% (includes a 1% surtax on income over $1 million)
- Return due (2026 tax year)
- April 15, 2027, the same as the federal deadline
- Tax agency
- California Franchise Tax Board
California taxes wage income. Structure for the 2026 tax year: Graduated, top rate 13.3% (includes a 1% surtax on income over $1 million), per the Tax Foundation's 2026 state rate tables. For 2026 returns, California's individual income tax deadline is April 15, 2027, the same as the federal deadline.
Filing a California return with tax software
Most online tax software charges a separate fee for each state return. Here is what each major provider charged for the 2025 tax year. Federal prices are separate; see the price tracker.
| Provider | State return fee (2025 tax year) | Free version: who qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| FreeTaxUSA | $15.99 per state return | Everyone, for federal returns |
| TurboTax | $39 to $64 per state return | Simple Form 1040 returns only |
| H&R Block | $49 per state return | W-2 and unemployment income, standard deduction |
| TaxSlayer | $47.99 per state return | Basic W-2 returns, standard deduction; one state included |
| TaxAct | $64.99 per state return | Simple Form 1040 returns, limited forms |
| Cash App Taxes | $0 (one state only) | Supported returns in one state; Cash App account needed |
| eFile.com | $21 per state return | Simple returns |
Cash App Taxes supports one state return only. Some states also offer their own free filing options; check the California Franchise Tax Board website.
Federal deadlines still apply
Your federal 2026 return is due April 15, 2027, wherever you live. See the full 2027 federal tax calendar, estimate your refund with the refund estimator, or compare tax software.
Official sources
- California Franchise Tax Board for California forms, rates and due dates
- IRS: California state resources
Rates and dates can change; always confirm with the California Franchise Tax Board before you file.
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FAQ
Does California have a state income tax?
Yes. For the 2026 tax year, California's structure is: Graduated, top rate 13.3% (includes a 1% surtax on income over $1 million).
When is the California tax deadline in 2027?
For 2026 returns, the deadline is April 15, 2027, the same as the federal deadline.
Does tax software charge for a California return?
Usually yes; most providers charge per state return. Cash App Taxes includes one state return free for supported situations.
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