Tax Filing Relief for California Residents Affected by Wildfires

News Summary

California residents affected by the January wildfires are eligible for an automatic six-month extension to file their taxes, moving the deadline to October 15, 2025. Although the filing deadline is extended, tax payments are still due by April 15, 2025. Additional resources, including a Tax Calculator and discounts from local restaurants, are available to ease the stress of tax season. Taxpayers can claim disaster-related losses and utilize various payment options through the California Franchise Tax Board.

Tax Filing Relief for California Residents Affected by Wildfires

As Tax Day approaches this year, many California residents and business owners are feeling the pressure to file their returns by the usual deadline of April 15, 2025. But fear not if you’ve been impacted by the January wildfires—both the IRS and the California state tax board have your back! You’re eligible for an automatic six-month extension to file your taxes and make those pesky payments, pushing your deadline to October 15, 2025.

Even though the deadline has been extended for those affected, it’s important to remember that any tax payments owed still need to be settled by the original date of April 15, 2025. So, while you get a little extra time to file, keep that in mind for payments!

How to Get Help With Your Taxes

Calculating your taxes can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, if you’re unsure of what you owe, the Franchise Tax Board has made things easier with a handy Tax Calculator available on their website. Plus, if you have questions or need assistance, you can reach out directly through their phone number at (888-825-9868) or via email at ftblacountydisasterrelief@ftb.ca.gov. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it—you’re definitely not alone in this!

Dine Out, Save Big: Discounts for Taxpayers

• Burger King is celebrating with a cheeseburger for just 1 cent with any $1 purchase made through their app, available until April 20.
• On Tuesday only, you can snag a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts from Krispy Kreme when you order another dozen online, by using the code “TAXBREAK.” Can’t go wrong with doughnuts!
• New York-based chain offers a free Black Truffle Burger, Black Truffle ’Shroom or Black Truffle Parmesan Fries with a purchase of $10.40 or more, using the code “TRUFFLETAX.
• By signing up for California Pizza Kitchen rewards, you can receive a $10 discount on a $40 order through Thursday—just remember to use the code “10OFF40.”
• On Tuesday, buy one slice of cookie cake at participating spots and get another slice for free—just mention the offer at checkout!
• Paris Baguette rewards members can claim a free pastry with any beverage purchase on Tuesday—because pastries make everything better!
• Finally, if you order through the 7NOW delivery app and use the code “WRITEOFF,” you can enjoy $10.40 off any order of $20 or more.

Additional Relief Options

Beyond tasty dining deals, if you’re navigating tax issues related to the wildfire, you could qualify to claim disaster-related losses either for the current tax year or for the prior one. Make sure to check out the resources available for California residents; knowing your options can truly ease the burden.

Paying your taxes is simple too! The California Franchise Tax Board offers a straightforward way to settle any owed taxes through their official website, allowing you to pay using a free checking or savings account. Alternatively, payments can be made via a third-party credit card provider—just keep those transaction fees in mind!

Filing and Getting Your Refund

For those filing electronically, you can typically expect your refund within 21 days. If you go the paper filing route, be prepared for extra processing time, as things might take a bit longer. And if you’re curious about your refund status, the IRS has made it easy to check online. Just have your social security number, filing status, and refund amount handy.

As California taxpayers gear up for this tax season, be sure to keep in mind all the resources and relief options available to you. Let’s make this tax season a little less stressful!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Redding: How to File a Tax Extension
• LA Times: Good News on Tax Day
• MSN: Last Minute Tax Filer
• wikiHow: How to File Taxes
• CBS News: Taxes Due 2025