How to make a CA individual tax payment (FTB Web Pay)

Sugam Sharma

Method 1 (Best): FTB Web Pay (Bank Account)

✔ Free
✔ Same-day confirmation
✔ No account registration required

Step 1: Go to FTB Web Pay

Go to the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) Web Pay page.

Select Personal → Web Pay for Individuals

Step 2: Enter taxpayer information

You’ll be asked for:

• SSN or ITIN
• Filing status
• ZIP code
• Last name

Click Continue.

Step 3: Choose payment type

Select the correct option:

• Balance Due → Paying with your CA tax return
• Estimated Tax → Quarterly estimates
• Extension → Paying for an extension

⚠️ Choosing the wrong type can cause misapplication.

Step 4: Select tax year

Choose the correct tax year (e.g., 2025 for 2025 estimates).

Step 5: Enter bank & payment details

Provide:

• Routing number
• Account number
• Checking or savings
• Payment amount

Step 6: Review & submit

• Review carefully
• Submit payment
• Save the confirmation number (very important)

✅ Payments usually post within 1–3 business days

Alternative CA payment options

Option 2: MyFTB Account

• Requires account setup
• Useful for tracking balances and notices

Option 3: Credit / Debit Card

• Available through FTB processors
• Convenience fees apply

Common CA payment mistakes

❌ Wrong payment type (estimate vs balance due)
❌ Wrong tax year
❌ Using business payment instead of individual
❌ Not saving confirmation