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California 2011 Personal Income Tax Rates

The California personal income tax brackets for 2011 were increased by 2.7%, which is the inflation factor for July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011.  The tax rates have been reduced, with the highest rate being 9.3%, where for 2009 and 2010 the highest rate was 9.55%.

Innocent Spouse Relief

Innocent Spouse Relief is only available to someone who files a joint return.  However, spouses who did not file joint returns, but who live in community property states, may also qualify for relief.  On July 25, 2011, the IRS announced that it has eliminated the 2-year time limit for filing Innocent Spouse Relief requests.

IRS Open Houses to Assist Taxpayers

To help taxpayers with their tax returns, IRS is holding open houses at nearly 100 IRS offices on Saturday February 26th, and Saturday March 26th.

2011 Federal Personal Income Tax Rates and Standard Deductions

Most tax brackets have been increased by approximately 1.5% for 2011 due to inflation, except for the tax brackets for estates and trusts, most of which increased by a smaller percentage.  Standard deductions have increased by 1.75% except for heads of household, which increased by 1.2%.  In 2010, the standard deduction was only increased for heads of household.  The 2011 increase brings the 2 year increase for heads of household standard deduction to 1.8%.

California Personal Income Tax

This page has links to California personal income tax rates, tax forms, and other information.

Filing Your Individual Income Tax Return

Your income tax return can be filed manually, or electronically.  You can file for free using the Free File program.

Federal Individual Income Tax Forms

Most forms are available already for the 2009 tax year.  We provide links to the schedules and forms which accompany each of the three tax return forms - 1040, 1040A, and 1040-EZ.  Glancing through the list of forms helps to provide information on what credits and deductions may be available to you.

First-Time Homebuyer Credit Extended

The deadline for the refundable First-Time Homebuyer Credit has been extended to principal residences purchased prior to May 1, 2010, with the contract closing prior to July 1, 2010.  The credit has also been extended to current homeowners who are long-time residents of the same home, and are now purchasing a new home.  The income limitations for claiming the credit have also been increased.

2010 Federal Personal Income Tax Rates

The 2010 Federal tax rates have been published.  Some tax bracket thresholds have had minor adjustments.  The standard deduction remains unchanged for all taxpayers except heads of household, for whom the deduction has been increased from $8,350 to $8,400.

First-Time Homebuyer Credit

Time is running out to qualify for the refundable First-Time Homebuyer Credit.  To qualify for the credit, the completed purchase must occur before December 1, 2009.

Federal Tax Refunds - Checks totalling millions of dollars have been returned to the IRS due to incorrect mailing addresses.  See how to check on your payments and refunds.

Resources page added, with links to foreign exchange rates, interest rates, and many US government resources.

Save Money page added, with 11 articles to help you save money and build wealth.

Site first published September 17, 2008

Revised: December 10, 2011