By SDCN Staff
Sacramento, CA–Starting Friday, $9.5 billion in Middle-Class Tax Refund payments will begin going out to Californians, with refunds of up to $1,050 that will benefit millions of eligible Californians under the largest such program in state history.
This unprecedented refund program to get money back in the pockets of Californians builds upon last year’s Golden State Stimulus, which distributed $9 billion to California families, and the billions that went to help folks pay their rent, cover overdue utility bills, and support small businesses.
“We know it’s expensive right now, and California is putting money back into your pockets to help. We’re sending out refunds worth over a thousand dollars to help families pay for everything from groceries to gas,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
Payments will range from $400 to $1,050 for couples filing jointly and $200 to $700 for all other individuals depending on their income and whether they claimed a dependent. Refunds are available for ITIN filers, in addition to those who file tax returns with an S.
A total of 18 million payments will be distributed, benefitting up to 23 million Californians. An estimated 8 million direct deposits will start arriving in bank accounts from October 7 through November 14, and an estimated 10 million debit cards will be delivered from October 25 through January 15. To determine your eligibility, visit taxrefund.ca.gov.
“Inflated costs for everyday necessities have forced many to cut corners or make impossible choices, and pain at the pump has been compounded by the return of the commute for many Californians,” said State Controller and Franchise Tax Board Chair Betty Yee. “As the holidays approach, my team members are thrilled to be able to get these payments into the hands of those who have been struggling, so they can enjoy a measure of relief.”
How much can you receive?
Payment amounts will be based on the CA AGI on your 2020 California state income tax return, as well as your filing status and whether you claimed a dependent. For more information, including a complete breakdown of payment amounts and a tool to estimate your payment, visit the Franchise Tax Board’s (FTB) Middle-Class Tax Refund (MCTR) website at taxrefund.ca.gov.
How you’ll receive your payment
Californians will receive their MCTR payment by direct deposit or debit card. Direct deposit payments will be made to eligible taxpayers who e-filed their 2020 CA tax return and received their CA tax refund by direct deposit. In general, other MCTR payments will be issued on debit cards. Debit cards will be mailed to eligible taxpayers in an envelope prominently displaying the following wording: “Not a bill or advertisement. Important information about your Middle-Class Tax Refund.” For more information regarding MCTR payments, visit taxrefund.ca.gov.
When you’ll receive your payment
Direct deposit MCTR payments for Californians who received Golden State Stimulus (GSS) I or II are expected to be issued to bank accounts from Oct. 7 through Oct. 25, with the remaining direct deposits occurring between Oct. 28 and Nov. 14. FTB expects about 90% of the MCTR direct deposits to be issued in October.
MCTR debit cards are expected to be mailed between October 25 and Dec. 10 for Californians who received GSS I and II, with the balance mailed by Jan. 15, 2023.
About 95% of all MCTR payments – direct deposit and debit cards combined – are expected to be issued by the end of this year. For more information, including the most recent updates on payment schedules, visit taxrefund.ca.gov.
Debit card information
FTB is working in partnership with Money Network Financial, a Fiserv company, to assist in the distribution of MCTR debit card payments. For more information, including how to activate your card, how to check your balance, and to view images of the MCTR envelope and debit card, visit www.mctrpayment.com.
