Retirement tax questions

It depends. The amount of California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) you may receive, if qualified, depends on your income and family size. CalEITC may provide you with cash back or reduce any tax you owe.

To qualify for CalEITC you must meet all of the following requirements during the tax year:

• You’re at least 18 years old or have a qualifying child
• Have earned income of at least $1 and not more than $32,900
• Have a valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for you, your spouse/RDP, and any qualifying children
• Live in California for more than half the filing year
• Not be eligible to be claimed as a qualifying child of another taxpayer
• Not be eligible to be claimed as a dependent of another taxpayer unless you have a qualifying child

Earned income is defined for this purpose as wages, salaries, tips, and other employee compensation that is subject to California withholding, or net income from self-employment.

In the California state return interview, look for the page "Take a look at California credits and taxes". Under Personal, Home and Family Credits, select California Earned Income Tax Credit and complete the questions to confirm whether you qualify.

For a quick estimate, you can also use the California FTB EITC calculator.