California state income tax on your paycheck
California uses progressive brackets up to 12.30%. Here is how it appears on your pay stub.
How California state tax works in 2025
California uses progressive income tax brackets. The top marginal rate is 12.30%.
California also requires a worker contribution to CA SDI.
California runs a paid leave program (CA PFL) funded by a payroll deduction.
Highest state income tax bracket in the US. SDI is mandatory. Higher minimums apply in some industries (fast food, healthcare).
California official sources
Official sources
- IRS Publication 15-T, Federal Income Tax Withholding Methods — IRS · 2025 · last verified 2025-04-01
- IRS Topic 751 — Social Security and Medicare Withholding Rates — IRS · 2025 · last verified 2025-04-01
- SSA — Contribution and Benefit Base — SSA · 2025 · last verified 2025-04-01
- U.S. DOL — Overtime Pay (FLSA) — DOL · last verified 2025-04-01
More California guides
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