The end of tax season is in sight, but for procrastinators, that may mean the dreaded is coming: 2026’s tax filing deadline.
For state returns in California, residents have until April 15 to file taxes. Federal taxes are due by April 15 as well.
Here’s what to know about filing an extension, and how to check the status of your return after filing.
Can I file for an extension?
The state of California gives an automatic extension through Oct. 15 to file returns. Payments, however, are still due by April 15, according to the California State Franchise Board. No application is needed for an extension.
Federal taxes are due by April 15 as well, but you can file for a six-month extension by submitting Form 4868 by the original due date of your return.
IRS offers free filing and tax preparation for some taxpayers
Some taxpayers may qualify to file taxes for free using IRS Free File, available through IRS.gov.
“The IRS Free File program is a public-private partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of tax preparation software companies,” according to the agency.
Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less can use the guided tax preparation software at no cost.
Some of the features include:
The IRS also offers free help with tax preparation for some taxpayers through the following programs:
How to check California tax refund status
After filing, you can use this service from the State of California Tax Franchise Board to check your refund status.
The service requires you to have the following information ready:
How to check federal tax refund status
You can check your federal tax refund status online using this IRS tool.
You will need the following information ready:
How long does it take to receive a state tax refund?
If you file online, your state tax refund may take up to three weeks; if you file on paper, it may take up to three months.
The franchise board said that some tax returns take longer than others to review “for accuracy, completeness, and to protect taxpayers from fraud and identity theft.”
If filers receive a refund that is more or less than you anticipated, state officials say they will mail you a letter.
How long does it take to receive a federal tax refund?
Taxpayers can expect to get their federal tax refunds within 21 days of electronically filing, according to USAGov. Tax refunds for paper returns will take longer.
Why might a refund be delayed?
According to HR Block, some common reasons for refund delays may include the following:
What is the average tax refund amount?
Though tax refunds may not be coming in near $1,000 higher than last year — despite the White House floating that possibility — they are trending up by hundreds of dollars.
The average federal tax refund amount for the 2026 season through March 13 is $3,623, about a $352 increase when compared to the average amount at the same time last year, according to data from the IRS.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: When is the deadline to file taxes? What Californians should know
Reporting by Daniella Segura, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
