News Summary

California residents impacted by January’s wildfires receive automatic tax extensions until October 15, 2025. The IRS and California State Tax Board are providing relief with various tax discounts and helpful resources for filing. Local restaurants are offering tasty deals to help ease the tax season stress. Stay informed about available deductions and tax relief options to make the most of your filing experience this year.

Tax Relief Joy for Californians in Sunny California

Hey there, California residents! As we draw closer to that all-important Tax Day on April 15, 2025, many of you might be feeling the pressures that come with filing your taxes. But this year, there’s a silver lining for those of you who were affected by the wildfires back in January. The good news is that you now have an automatic six-month extension to file those tax returns and make payments, which means you now have until October 15, 2025.

What This Means for You

For residents and businesses hard-hit by those devastating wildfires, both the IRS and the California State Tax Board are handing out these extensions with no need for applications. Ain’t that something? However, just a little reminder: any tax payments that you owe still need to hit the table by the original due date of April 15, 2025. So don’t let your guard down!

If you’re wondering how much you might owe, the Franchise Tax Board has got your back with their handy Tax Calculator. If you find yourself scratching your head or have questions while navigating the tax process, don’t hesitate to reach out for help! You can give them a call at (888-825-9868) or drop them an email at ftblacountydisasterrelief@ftb.ca.gov.

Tax Discounts and Delicious Treats Await!

Burger King: Get a cheeseburger for just 1 cent with any $1 purchase on their app until April 20. Sorry, friends in Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories, this deal isn’t for you!
Free Doughnuts: On Tuesday, grab a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts with an online order of a dozen, using the code “TAXBREAK”. If you’re shopping in-store, the second dozen will cost you around $1.52 (thanks, sales tax).
Truffle Deals: New York-based restaurant chains are giving away a free Black Truffle Burger, Black Truffle ’Shroom, or Black Truffle Parmesan Fries with any purchase of $10.40 or more using the code “TRUFFLETAX”.
California Pizza Kitchen: Sign up for their rewards and you’ll snag a $10 discount on any order over $40 using the code “10OFF40”, valid through Thursday!
On Tuesday, enjoy a buy-one-get-one-free cookie cake slice deal – just mention it at checkout!
Paris Baguette: Their rewards members get a free pastry with any beverage purchase on Tuesday.
Get this – using the 7NOW delivery app with code “WRITEOFF” could get you $10.40 off any order of $20 or more!

Understanding Tax Relief Options

If you are one of those unfortunate residents affected by the wildfires, don’t forget that you can claim disaster-related losses for either the current year or the previous one. Filing electronically? Pat yourself on the back—California is processing most refunds within 21 days. Just remember, paper filings may take a tad longer.

If you’re wondering about your refund status, you can check online with the IRS by entering your social security number, filing status, and refund amount.

Know Your Deductions

2024 federal standard deduction for single filers is $14,600 and for married couples filing jointly it is $29,200. In California, the standard deduction is $5,540 for single filers and $11,080 for married couples filing together.

Smart tax professionals continually stress the importance of keeping good records and planning throughout the year for the best tax outcomes. So, stay organized, folks, and get ready to tackle those 2025 taxes like pros!