Turbo Takeaways
- The California Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR) was issued to millions of state residents to help alleviate the impact of inflation.
- Eligible Californians received refunds in the form of a pre-loaded debit card or direct deposit into their bank account.
- California’s MCTR was a one-time payment provided between 2022 and 2024.
What Is the California Middle Class Tax Refund?
The California Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR) was a one-time payment issued to eligible Californians to ease the financial burden of inflation. Payments were automatically issued to those eligible starting October 2022. Reissued payments ended on May 31, 2024.
The amount of this stimulus check in California varied depending on your adjusted gross income (AGI), filing status, and whether you claimed a dependent.
Here’s a quick look at how much residents received based on their adjusted gross incomes (AGI) and filing status.
Married Filing Jointly:
| AGI Range | Amount Without Dependent | Amount With Dependent |
|---|---|---|
| $150,000 or less | $700 | $1,050 |
| $150,001 to $250,000 | $500 | $750 |
| $250,001 to $500,000 | $400 | $600 |
| $500,001 or more | Not Qualified | Not Qualified |
Qualifying Widow(er) or Head of Household:
| AGI Range | Amount Without Dependent | Amount With Dependent |
|---|---|---|
| $150,000 or less | $350 | $700 |
| $150,001 to $250,000 | $250 | $500 |
| $250,001 to $500,000 | $200 | $400 |
| $500,001 or more | Not Qualified | Not Qualified |
Single or Married Filing Separately:
| AGI Range | Amount Without Dependent | Amount With Dependent |
|---|---|---|
| $75,000 or less | $350 | $700 |
| $75,001 to $125,000 | $250 | $500 |
| $125,001 to $250,000 | $200 | $400 |
| $250,001 or more | Not Qualified | Not Qualified |
Key Information About the California Middle Class Tax Refund
Below, you'll find key information about the California Middle Class Tax Refund, including qualification requirements, how to apply, and how to track your status.
Are You Eligible for the California Middle Class Tax Refund?
To qualify for the tax refund, you must:
- Filed your return for the 2020 tax year by the extended October 15, 2021, tax filing deadline
- Not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return for the year 2020
- AGI of no more than $500,000 if filing as a qualifying widow(er), head of household, or married filing jointly
- AGI no more than $250,000 if you’re filing as single or married filing separately
- California resident for at least six months in 2020, and on the date the tax refund was issued
Payments were made to eligible filers through a mailed debit card or bank deposit. If you e-filed your 2020 tax return and requested a tax refund through direct deposit, you would have received your tax refund through direct deposit to the same account. Debit cards were issued for everyone else.
Although the California Middle Class Tax Refund has ended, we also recommend learning more about other stimulus programs in your state to see if you qualify.
Stay alert for scammers, and don’t reply to unsolicited emails or texts that request personal information, such as your Social Security number. Copycat websites may closely resemble the official IRS or FTB website, so double-check website spellings to ensure you’re getting general information from reliable sources.
Discover Additional Financial Resources
While the California Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR) provided crucial financial relief, other options are still available for those seeking assistance. Here are a few resources that can provide additional support:
- California Stimulus Checks
In addition to the MCTR, California issued stimulus checks during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you haven't received a payment, review your eligibility to see if you can still claim it. You may also qualify for tax credits that can help you save money on your taxes. - Debt Relief Plans
For those struggling with overwhelming debts like medical bills and credit cards, California debt relief programs can help individuals manage and reduce their debt more effectively. - Financial Assistance Programs
The Golden State offers various financial assistance programs that provide cash aid, food benefits, and healthcare resources for residents in need. These programs can help alleviate immediate economic pressures. - Payday Loans
While California's online payday loans can offer immediate cash, they often come with high fees and interest rates. It's essential to weigh the risks and explore alternatives before considering this option.
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