State Tax Filing Season Kicks Off

Sacramento, CA — Tax time is upon us once again.

The Franchise Tax Board reports that more taxpayers will qualify to e-file state tax returns and efforts have been stepped up to make the tax system more fair in 2006.

State Controller Steve Westly says filing electronically saves time, saves paper, is more accurate, and taxpayers get quick refund payments.

Californians can also expect to see increased enforcement and education efforts aimed at taxpayers who underreport their taxes, or do not file or pay what they owe.

The FTB recently hired 100 new auditors, collectors, and other staff to increase enforcement. Westly says the FTB offers tax help over the phone and on the Internet seven days a week, 24 hours a day. The phone number is 800-338-0505.

Contact Sabrina Sabbagh at Sabrina Sabbagh