How it works
A step-by-step guide to getting your California refund faster.
Your return enters the queue
After you e-file your California state tax return, it gets 'Accepted' within a few business days. At this point, your return enters a processing queue. This queue is where most people wait 3-4 weeks with no visibility into when their return will be reviewed.
You pay & schedule with GetRefundFast
Choose a plan based on your California refund amount and pay securely through Stripe. Then pick a call time during business hours (8 AM - 5 PM PT, weekdays). We'll send you a calendar invite and a reminder 15 minutes before your call.
We connect you to the FTB
At your scheduled time, we call you and connect you to the California Franchise Tax Board. You'll speak with an FTB representative who will ask you to confirm some information from your current and prior year tax returns.
Your return may be expedited
Once your information is verified by the FTB, your return may be moved to expedited processing. If successful, your return status can change from 'Processing' to 'Issued,' meaning your California refund has been approved and sent for deposit.
California refund typically deposited in 7-10 business days
After your return is issued, the deposit is processed. Total time from your GetRefundFast call to money in your account is typically 7-10 business days. Actual timelines are determined by the FTB and may vary.
What you'll need for the call
- Your current year California tax return (Form 540)
- Your prior year California tax return
- Your adjusted gross income from both years
- Your filing status
- Your Social Security number (provided directly to the FTB, never shared with GetRefundFast)
- A quiet place to take a 10-15 minute phone call
GetRefundFast is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or partnered with the California Franchise Tax Board, the State of California, or any government agency. Results are not guaranteed. Actual processing times are determined by the FTB and may vary. GetRefundFast is a call facilitation service and does not provide tax advice, tax preparation, or representation before any government agency.