When will I receive my California tax refund? Here’s how to avoid delays
It’s officially tax season in California.
The Internal Revenue Service began accepting and processing federal tax returns on Jan. 26, marking the start of the nation’s 2026 filing season, the agency said.
The IRS said it expects to receive 164 million individual tax returns for the 2025 tax year by the federal filing deadline.
Whether you’ve already filed or plan to wait until the last minute, here’s when you can expect your California tax refund:
When do I have to file my 2025 tax return?
In California, the deadline to file both state and federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax year is Wednesday, April 15.
Taxpayers who need more time can request a six-month filing extension — but any taxes owed must still be paid by the April deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
When will I get my California tax refund?
If you file your taxes electronically and choose direct deposit, you can usually expect your refund within about 21 days, as long as your return is complete and error-free, according to the California Franchise Tax Board and the IRS.
If you file a paper return, the wait is longer. California refunds sent by mail can take up to three months to arrive, the California Franchise Tax Board said.
For federal taxes, refunds can also take more time if you file an amended return or submit your paperwork by mail. In those cases, processing can take four weeks or longer, according to the IRS.
How can I check the status of my California tax refund?
Both the California Franchise Tax Board and the IRS make it easy to track your tax refund online.
To check your refund status through the California Franchise Tax Board, you’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your ZIP code
- The exact refund amount
- The numbers from your street address
“If your mailing address is 1234 Main St., the numbers are 1234,” the state department said.
You can track your federal refund using the IRS tool Where’s My Refund?
Your refund status usually appears about 24 hours after you file your taxes electronically, according to the federal agency.
To check your refund status, you’ll need your Social Security number or individual taxpayer ID number, your filing status and the exact amount on your return.
You can also check your federal refund using the IRS2Go mobile app.
How to avoid tax return delays
To avoid delays with your tax refund, make sure your return is complete and accurate.
Double-check that your contact and bank account information are up-to-date, according to the California Franchise Tax Board.
If you need help, the state department recommends starting with its online self-service tools, which can often resolve issues faster than calling.
These options include:
- Check your refund status.
- Make a payment.
- Should you file?
- What form should you file?
- View processing and wait times.
This story was originally published February 3, 2026 at 5:00 AM with the headline "When will I receive my California tax refund? Here’s how to avoid delays."
