1. What is the current sales tax rate in California?
California’s base state sales tax rate is 7.25%, but local city or county taxes can raise it to 10.25% or higher depending on where you live. You can check your exact local rate using the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) tool.
2. What is the California state income tax rate in 2025?
California’s state income tax rate ranges from 1% to 12.3%, depending on your income bracket. High earners above $1 million also pay an additional 1% mental health surcharge, making the maximum 13.3%. You can estimate your rate using our California Income Tax Calculator.
3. How is property tax calculated in California?
Property tax in California is typically 1% of the property’s assessed value, plus local voter-approved taxes. The assessed value is based on the purchase price, which can increase by no more than 2% per year under Proposition 13.
4. How is alimony calculated in California?
California uses spousal support guidelines that consider income, marriage length, and living standards. Temporary alimony is often calculated using formulas, while permanent support depends on court discretion. Try our California Alimony Calculator for an accurate estimate.
5. How much unemployment benefit can I get in California?
Unemployment benefits in California range from $40 to $450 per week, depending on past earnings. You can calculate your expected benefit using the California Unemployment Calculator on our site.
6. How is child support determined in California?
California child support is based on both parents’ income, custody time, and number of children. The Child Support Guideline Formula uses these details to calculate a fair amount. Use our California Child Support Calculator to estimate payments.
7. How is overtime pay calculated in California?
Employees in California earn 1.5x pay for hours worked beyond 8 in a day or 40 in a week. Double pay applies after 12 hours in a day. You can estimate your overtime pay using our Overtime Calculator.
8. What is a livable wage in California?
A livable wage in California varies by city. On average, a single adult needs around $25–$30 per hour to cover basic expenses like rent, food, and transportation. You can check your city’s rate using our California Livable Wage Calculator.
9. How much does health insurance cost for one person in California?
Individual health insurance in California costs between $400–$600 per month, depending on your plan, location, and age. Many residents qualify for Covered California subsidies to reduce premiums.
10. How do I calculate California state tax withholding?
You can calculate state tax withholding by using your income, filing status, and allowances. The California Withholding Calculator helps estimate how much should be deducted from your paycheck each month.
11. What is the current minimum wage in California?
As of 2025, the California minimum wage is $16 per hour statewide. Some cities, like San Francisco and Los Angeles, have higher local minimums that reach $17.25 or more.
12. What is use tax in California?
Use tax applies to goods purchased from out-of-state sellers when no sales tax is charged. The rate is the same as your local sales tax. You can pay this tax when filing your California income tax return.
13. When are California property taxes due?
Property taxes in California are due in two installments — the first by December 10, and the second by April 10. Late payments can lead to penalties, so always check your county tax collector’s website for due dates.
14. What is a seller’s permit and how is sales tax collected in California?
A seller’s permit allows businesses to collect sales tax on taxable goods and services. You can apply through the CDTFA website. Collected taxes must be reported and remitted regularly.
15. What does child support cover in California?
Child support covers a child’s basic needs — food, housing, clothing, education, and healthcare. Courts may also include childcare and extracurricular expenses in support orders.
16. When does alimony end or change in California?
Alimony may end if the receiving spouse remarries, cohabitates, or either party’s income changes significantly. Courts can modify or terminate payments based on new financial situations.
17. How does part-time work affect unemployment benefits in California?
If you work part-time, your unemployment benefits are reduced but not eliminated. You must report all earnings weekly, and the EDD recalculates your benefit accordingly.
18. How do property tax exemptions work in California?
California offers Homeowners’ Exemption ($7,000) and Veterans’ Exemption that reduce taxable property value. Check eligibility with your county assessor’s office to claim these benefits.
19. Why does the livable wage vary by city in California?
Cost of living varies across cities. Urban areas like San Francisco or San Jose have higher housing and food costs, so their livable wage is higher compared to rural counties.
20. How do health insurance subsidies work in California?
Through Covered California, low- to middle-income residents receive federal and state subsidies to reduce premium costs. Eligibility depends on your household income and family size.
21. What’s the difference between daily and weekly overtime rules in California?
Daily overtime applies after 8 hours per day, and weekly overtime after 40 hours per week. The higher calculation (daily or weekly) always benefits the employee.
22. How can I appeal my property tax in California?
If you believe your property is over-assessed, you can file an assessment appeal with your County Assessment Appeals Board. You must submit it within 60 days of receiving the notice.
23. What tax deductions and credits are available in California?
California offers deductions for mortgage interest, property taxes, and charitable donations. Credits include renter’s credit, child adoption, and earned income credit. Review options on the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) website.
24. How can I use the California sales tax lookup tool?
You can find your city’s current rate using the CDTFA Sales Tax Lookup Tool by entering your address or ZIP code. It shows both state and local rates instantly.
25. How are child support arrears enforced in California?
Unpaid child support (arrears) can be collected through wage garnishment, property liens, or intercepting tax refunds. The California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) handles enforcement.