California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board

Frequently Asked Questions - Information for Offenders: Your Restitution Responsibilities

Can I make monthly payments?

Yes. To start a monthly payment plan contact the Franchise Tax Board at (916) 845-4064. The Franchise Tax Board will only speak with the person who owes the fine unless he/she is no longer living. Once you speak to the Franchise Tax Board you can give them permission to speak with a spouse, parent, etc.

Return to Top

Why has my employer garnished my wages?

Your wages are being garnished because you have not paid your court ordered restitution fine. The court ordered this fine when you were sentenced. The Franchise Tax Board sent a demand for payment letter to your last known address. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation provided this address.

To discuss payment options regarding the notice you received from your employer, contact the Franchise Tax Board at (916) 845-4064.

Return to Top

Why has my bank frozen my account?

Your bank account is being frozen because you have not paid your court ordered restitution fine. The court ordered this fine when you were sentenced to the custody of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or the Department of Juvenile Justice (formerly the California Youth Authority). The Franchise Tax Board sent a demand for payment letter to your last known address. Either the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or the Department of Juvenile Justice provided this address.

To discuss payment options regarding the notice you received from your bank, contact the Franchise Tax Board at (916) 845-4064.

Return to Top

How do I find out if the California Department Of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) gave me credit for all the payments I made while I was in prison?

CDCR gave us your unpaid restitution fine information. If you have questions about this unpaid amount, or believe that your account balance does not reflect all payments made while you were an inmate in state prison, you must contact CDCR and request an audit of your Inmate Trust Account activity. To reach the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation call (877) 256-6877.

Return to Top

Return to Frequently Asked Questions