Key Takeaways:
- Detailed Steps Required: Follow CA FTB’s specific procedures for reapplying mistaken payments to meet compliance.
- Avoid Penalties: Reapplying payments incorrectly can lead to penalties and interest; seek professional guidance.
- Early Action Recommended: Submit requests before filing the entity’s return to streamline the correction process.
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Good news for tax professionals who mistakenly made an estimated tax payment on behalf of the entity instead of a passthrough entity elective tax payment: These payments can be reapplied — but you must follow the detailed steps below.
Ordinarily, the passthrough entity elective tax payment would only be recognized if paid with Form 3893 via Web Pay as a “passthrough entity elective tax payment” or by electronic funds withdrawal when using tax software.
California Franchise Tax Board (CA FTB) Procedure:
- All requests must be submitted in writing and sent to the following address:
- California Franchise Tax Board, PO Box 942857, Sacramento CA 94257-0500
- The submission must include an acknowledgment from the business representative that reapplying the erroneous estimated payment to another liability may result in penalties and interest in the tax year where the payment was originally applied.
- The requests can be submitted through a MyFTB account. Tax professionals may also contact the Tax Practitioner Hotline (916-845-7057) and speak with a representative to adjust the payment. However, a written request will still be required.
- The written request to reapply the estimated tax payment should be done prior to the entity filing its return.
- This process is available only for an erroneous estimated tax payment made by an entity. It is not available for erroneous estimated payments made on behalf of an individual owner since that involves two different taxpayers.
How MGO Can Help
We can assist you by offering detailed guidance on the tax payment reapplication process, confirming compliance with the CA FTB’s procedures, and helping to mitigate potential penalties. With MGO’s support, taxpayers can efficiently navigate the complexities of passthrough entity elective tax payments, leading to accurate filing and optimal tax outcomes. Reach out to our State and Local Tax team today.