In 2006, I was stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA on active duty orders for 5 months. Recently, I received a letter from California stating that I owe $270 for the tax year of 2006. I never owned a vehicle, house, rental, or anything of the nature that could be taxed. I read The Soldiers’ and Sailor’s Civil Relief Act of 1940 (SSCRA) 50 U.S. Code Appendix δ574 and it states that I only pay state tax for my home of residency. Is there anything California could tax me on? Oh yea, I also DID NOT have a job outside of the military in California. Thanks!

You will pay tax only to your state of residency.

Agreed! Send the state of California a copy of your orders and politely note that active duty military are NOT liable for California state income taxes if stationed inside the state of California.