California tax season is officially open

SACRAMENTO –The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) recently began accepting 2016 state tax returns for a filing season that extends through April 18, three days beyond the traditional deadline because of a federal holiday. The FTB encourages taxpayers to take advantage of the agency’s online services and take extra steps to protect themselves and their refunds.

Free filing help is available for many taxpayers with limited incomes, and is often available on military bases for service members. For a list of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program locations throughout California, go to www.ftb.ca.gov and...