Dear Friends,
It's that time of the year again, tax return season is here! Many families in Assembly District 18 are looking for affordable ways to file their federal and state taxes. The Internal Revenue Service and the State of California Franchise Tax Board have marked April 15, 2024, as the deadline for filing your 2023 taxes and it is fast approaching. This also includes ensuring you file timely for the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Young Child Tax Credit designed to help low-to-moderate-income working families with financial aid. Eligible taxpayers just need to file a state tax return.
But we have exciting news to share: you can now file your taxes for free with the new IRS Direct File pilot program! California is just one of twelve states that allow qualifying taxpayers to file directly with the IRS at no cost, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act signed by President Biden. Direct File is available in English and Spanish, works on mobile smartphone devices or personal computers, and includes dedicated customer support directly from trained IRS agents to help you. You can find more information on eligibility, how to claim tax credits, and where to find free tax preparers by checking out Sections 1 and 2 of my newsletter. As always, please contact my District office for any state related issue or problem as we are always ready to help.
Yours in Service,
Mia Bonta
Assemblymember, 18th District
In this newsletter, you'll find the following information:
- Section 1: Free Federal and California Tax Preparation and Filing Resources
- Section 2: Access Free Tax Preparation Locations Near You!
Assemblymember Mia Bonta & staff are committed to keeping AD-18 residents fully engaged and informed. Please send this newsletter to a friend and subscribe!
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Section 1: Free Federal and California Tax Preparation and Filing Resources
Section 1A: NEW Direct File With the IRS Program to File Your Federal Taxes for Free
Direct File is a new tax tool to file your 2023 federal taxes for free directly with the IRS. Follow a step-by-step guide to help you understand your taxes and get live online support in English and Spanish from IRS staff, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time. The following tax situations are all supported with Direct File:
Types of Income:
- W2 wage income, Social Security, or Unemployment
Types of Credits:
- Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents
Types of Deductions:
- Standard Deduction, Student Loan Interest, and Educator Expenses
Learn more and begin your tax filing preparation now!
Section 1B: File your State Taxes for Free with Franchise Tax Board CalFile
File your California state taxes directly with the Franchise Tax Board - for free! Use CalFile to e-file your state tax return directly to the Franchise Tax Board. Get real-time confirmation and the fastest refund possible. An easy, simple, step-by-step process, save and come back to your application anytime. A fast refund is possible using direct deposit. Safe and secure with secure servers. Receive instant confirmation that your return was received.
Section 1C: Learn About Your Eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit
The California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) and the Young Child Tax Credit are state tax credits for working Californians. If you qualify, you may see a reduced tax bill or a bigger refund. You may qualify for the CalEITC if:
- You’re at least 18 years old
- Have a qualifying child
- Have earned an income of $30,950 or less.
Learn more about your eligibility now.
Section 2: Access Free Tax Preparation Locations Near You!
Section 2A: California State Controller Malia Cohen Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Locations
State Controller Malia Cohen’s Office actively works to help taxpayers file their state and federal taxes with staff support. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (“VITA”) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (“TCE”) programs offer free help for taxpayers who made $64K or less in 2023. Work with trusted professionals in preparing and filing your state and federal taxes, and know what documents to have on hand.
This not only helps with cost savings but also provides the reassurance that your taxes are handled by skilled and certified professionals, thereby granting peace of mind.
Find the closest location to you and get free help today!