topic Re: Mailing 540 return in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Mailing 540 return

jyeh74 — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:46:13 GMT

When mailing 540 return, do I need to also include the federal forms 1040 + schedule A, B, C, E etc?

Re: Mailing 540 return

LenaH — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 21:29:39 GMT

It depends if you had any other forms or schedules to your 1040 (other than Schedule A or Schedule B).

If No, do not attach a copy of your federal Form 1040 return to Form 540. If Yes, attach a copy of your federal Form 1040 and all supporting federal forms and schedules to Form 540.

For example, if you had a Schedule C and Schedule E, then you would attach your 1040, along with all supporting forms and schedules to your 540.

Exception: If you did not itemize deductions on your federal tax return but will itemize deductions on your California tax return, complete and attach a copy of the federal Schedule A (Form 1040) to Form 540.

In addition, you must attach all the Form(s) W-2 and W-2G you received to the lower front of your tax return. Also, attach any Forms(s) 1099, 592-B, and 593 showing California income tax withheld.

Re: Mailing 540 return

jyeh74 — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 21:34:01 GMT

@LenaH Yes there are schedule E.

I never included W2 with state return. I only included it with federal return. Are you supposed to include W2 with state return?

Re: Mailing 540 return

LenaH — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 21:42:41 GMT

Yes, according to the State of California, you should attach your W-2 if you mail in your 540.

Per the 540 Instructions, if you forget to send your Form(s) W-2 or other withholding forms with your income tax return, do not send them separately, or with another copy of your tax return. Wait until the FTB requests them from you.

For more information, please see 2023 540 Instruction Booklet.

@jyeh74