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Level 1
posted Feb 17, 2020 10:33:59 AM

Do I need to file California return if I do not owe any CA taxes?

Here are the details from form 540:

Line 13 - Federal AGI $51,630

Line 18 - Std Ded $9,074

Line 19 - Taxable Income $42,556

Line 31 - Tax $693

Line 32 - Exemption Credits $1,000

Line 97 - Tax Due $0

 

Thank you.

0 3 7598
3 Replies
Expert Alumni
Feb 17, 2020 11:00:20 AM

Yes, you are required to file a California state return even if you don't owe. The state of California requires a state tax return to be filed if the following is true:

  • You are required to file a federal return
  • You received income from a California source
  • You have income above a certain amount (please view this link to see the income filing requirement for your residency status)

Level 1
Feb 17, 2020 11:19:37 AM

Do all three conditions need to be met or any of them? Also, what is the "certain amount"?

Expert Alumni
Feb 17, 2020 12:00:10 PM

You need to file a California return if any of those conditions apply.

The amounts referred to can be found at California’s 2019 540 Forms and Instructions Personal Income Tax Booklet.