Tax season can be stressful, especially when managing both federal IRS deadlines and California state tax deadlines. Missing an important date can lead to penalties, interest charges, and unnecessary stress.
Whether you are an individual taxpayer, self-employed professional, LLC owner, or corporation in California, understanding the 2026 tax calendar is essential.
Here is your complete guide to the 2026 tax deadlines for California residents and businesses.
📅 Key 2026 Tax Deadlines for California Individuals
April 15, 2026 – Main Tax Filing Deadline
This is the most important tax deadline.
By this date, you must:
- File your Federal Income Tax Return (Form 1040)
- File your California State Income Tax Return (Form 540)
- Pay any taxes owed to avoid penalties
- Submit your first estimated tax payment for 2026
⚠️ Important: Filing late may result in late filing penalties and interest.
June 15, 2026 – 2nd Estimated Tax Payment
If you are self-employed or have income without withholding, your second quarterly estimated tax payment is due.
September 15, 2026 – 3rd Estimated Tax Payment
The third installment for quarterly estimated taxes is due for both federal and California state taxes.
October 15, 2026 – Extended Filing Deadline
If you filed an extension by April 15, this is your final deadline to submit your 2025 tax return.
⚠️ Remember: An extension gives you more time to file — not more time to pay. Taxes owed were still due on April 15.
January 15, 2027 – 4th Estimated Tax Payment
The fourth quarterly estimated tax payment for 2026 income is due.
🏢 2026 Tax Deadlines for California Businesses
Businesses in California must meet additional requirements depending on their structure.
Sole Proprietors
- Follow individual deadlines (April 15)
- File Schedule C
- Make quarterly estimated payments
Partnerships & S Corporations
🗓 March 16, 2026
- Federal return due (Form 1065 / 1120-S)
- California state filing required
If extended, deadline typically moves to September.
C Corporations
🗓 April 15, 2026
- Federal corporate tax return due (Form 1120)
- California corporate tax return due
LLCs in California
California LLCs must pay:
- 🗓 Annual $800 minimum franchise tax (due April 15)
- Additional LLC fee (if applicable based on income)
Failure to pay the $800 annual tax can result in penalties from the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB).
Estimated Tax Payment Schedule for 2026
If you are self-employed, freelancer, investor, or business owner, your quarterly estimated tax payment schedule is:
- April 15, 2026
- June 15, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- January 15, 2027
Missing estimated payments may result in underpayment penalties.
Common Mistakes California Taxpayers Make
- Forgetting to file California state return
- Missing quarterly estimated payments
- Paying extension but not filing return
- Misreporting business income
- Ignoring $800 LLC tax requirement
These mistakes often trigger notices from the IRS or California FTB.
Why Meeting Tax Deadlines in California Matters
California has strict enforcement policies. Missing deadlines can result in:
- Late filing penalties
- Late payment penalties
- Interest accumulation
- Collection notices
- Potential bank levies
Planning ahead ensures smooth tax compliance.
Who Should Seek Professional Help?
You should consult a CPA in California if you:
- Own a small business
- Operate an LLC or S Corp
- Have rental income
- Sold property or investments
- Received IRS or FTB notices
- Owe back taxes
Professional tax planning can help reduce liability and avoid penalties.
Need Help Meeting 2026 Tax Deadlines?
At ABSE Tax, we assist individuals and businesses across California with:
✔ Individual income tax filing
✔ Small business tax returns
✔ Quarterly estimated tax planning
✔ Payroll tax compliance
✔ IRS & FTB representation
✔ Tax planning and consulting
Contact Us today:
📍 18000 Pioneer Blvd, Suite 203, Artesia, CA 90701
📞 (562) 403-1177
📧 info@absetax.com
🌐 absetax.com
