California state income tax
Varies
Can You Write Off California state income tax?
Short answer: California taxes income up to 13.3% (including a 1% surcharge over $1M), taxes HSA contributions and gains, still allows itemized unreimbursed employee expenses, and doesn't tax Social Security.
State and local income, sales, and property taxes share one SALT cap ($40,400 for 2026, reduced above about $505,000 of income) and only help if you itemize.
Records to keep: Keep receipts, statements (1098, 1098-T, 1099, W-2G), and a note of what each cost was for. Compare itemizing to the 2026 standard deduction before you claim.
California state income tax
Varies
Individuals / Personal Taxes
California taxes income up to 13.3% (including a 1% surcharge over $1M), taxes HSA contributions and gains, still allows itemized unreimbursed employee expenses, and doesn't tax Social Security.
Business justification
California taxes income up to 13.3% (including a 1% surcharge over $1M), taxes HSA contributions and gains, still allows itemized unreimbursed employee expenses, and doesn't tax Social Security. State and local income, sales, and property taxes share one SALT cap ($40,400 for 2026, reduced above about $505,000 of income) and only help if you itemize.
Category
- Personal Tax Deductions