Where's my California refund?
California says: up to 3 weeks (refund page) / 1 month (time-frames page).
California at a glance.
| Item | What California says |
|---|---|
| Official tracker | Check status |
| You need | SSN, ZIP, exact refund, mailing address numbers |
| E-filed | up to 3 weeks (refund page) / 1 month (time-frames page) |
| Paper | up to 3 months / 4 months |
| Identity checks | FTB 3904, 4737D, 4502 (CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC); 916-845-7088 |
| Phone | 800-338-0505 (automated); 800-852-5711 |
Two official FTB pages disagree; both shown.
Got your California refund?
Add your dates. They become the California forecast for people who file after you. Stored without your IP address.
Also for you.
- Federal refund dateFrom your IRS transcript.
- California paycheck calculatorTake-home pay with 2026 tables.
- Arkansas refund statusThe official Arkansas tracker, how long it takes and who to call.
- Colorado refund statusThe official Colorado tracker, how long it takes and who to call.
- Every state refund trackerThe official tool, timing and phone numbers for all 50 states and DC.
- IRS refund scheduleWhen federal refunds go out, week by week this season.
- Transcript codesWhat 570, 846 and 971 mean for the money you are waiting for.
- IRS phone numbersWhich line to call, whether it is open now and today's hold by hour.
Questions people ask
How do I check my California refund?
Use California's official tool; it asks for SSN, ZIP, exact refund, mailing address numbers.
How long does a California refund take?
E-filed: up to 3 weeks (refund page) / 1 month (time-frames page). Paper: up to 3 months / 4 months.
Why is my California refund taking longer?
California may hold a refund to confirm your identity: FTB 3904, 4737D, 4502 (CalEITC/YCTC/FYTC); 916-845-7088.
What is the California refund phone number?
800-338-0505 (automated); 800-852-5711
Sources
Checked against these sources on October 30, 2026.