Sales Tax Relief for California Taxpayers Affected by Winter Storms

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office announced on January 18, 2023 that California taxpayers affected by the recent winter storms are now eligible for sales tax relief. 

This relief comes because a state of emergency has been declared in California.

Who is eligible? 

California taxpayers (including sales and use taxpayers) are eligible for relief if:

• You file tax via the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA)
• You or your business was affected by the recent winter storms, including “flooding, power outages, and other storm-related hardships”
• You have a tax return due between January 4, 2023 and January 31, 2023

What tax relief is available? 

Taxpayers can contact the CDTFA and request an additional three months to file tax returns. 

If granted relief, the state will also not require you to pay penalties or interest on any tax due.

How do I request California winter storm sales tax relief?

Important to note: You must contact the CDTFA and request tax relief. This is not an automatic extension on time to file and pay sales tax. 

To contact the CDTFA and ask for relief:

• Apply on the CDTFA website. You’ll be required to fill out and submit Form CDTFA-735, Request for Relief from Penalty, Collection Cost Recovery Fee and/or Interest
• Fill out the above form and send it by mail to California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, PO Box 942879, MIC 35, Sacramento, CA 94279
• Visit one of the CDTFA’s field offices
• Call 1-800-400-7115 from Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 5pm Pacific Time, except state holidays 

Read more about California’s winter storm tax relief program.