Does the CA Franchise Tax Board offer a "suspension of payment,” "waiver,” or “amnesty” program for back “income taxes?” If so, what are the specific criteria or where can I obtain the criteria w/o contacting them directly? Couldn’t find anything on their site. I have no assets, my income is SS Disability, and I'm on various government assistance/supplemental programs. Thanks!

Merrie:

When it comes to taxes, everything is negotiable.

California CANNOT take your SS disability to satisfy back taxes; it's the law. If that plus other government assistance programs are your ONLY source of income, with no other assets, you can basically laugh at the California tax collectors when they come calling.

Once they become fully aware of your financial situation (something you should be forthcoming about), they will deem your back taxes as "uncollectable" and go after other, bigger fish.