Cigarette and Tobacco Products Flat (FLT) File and XML Filing Guide
Getting Started

You must connect to the CDTFA website to submit your files and use a browser that supports 128 bit SSL. Usernames and passwords are required. A Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encrypted session will be established between you and the CDTFA when you log in. Your system must be configured to accept “cookies.” The CDTFA Online Services system requires a “cookie” as an element in maintaining the secure internet connection.

Log In Procedures

Go to our Online Services login page and enter your Username and Password.

Website Information

For additional information on cigarette and tobacco products online filing, please visit the CDTFA website at www.cdtfa.ca.gov. On the CDTFA website, you can find the latest developments in tax-related news. Some of the topics and information available include:

  • Cigarette and Tobacco Products Online Filing webpage, including:
    • FLT file templates and examples
    • Online Filing Glossary
    • Filing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • CDTFA Online Services Information
  • Hot Topics
  • News Releases, Notices, Publications, and Newsletters
  • Special Taxpayer Alerts
  • Telephone Numbers and Addresses for Other Services

Guide Updates

The information contained in this guide is subject to change. We recommend that you check our website for updates to this guide and the Cigarette and Tobacco Products Online Filing webpage. Updates may include, but are not limited to:

  • Changes to online filing rules or requirements
  • Changes to cigarette and tobacco products tax returns or reports
  • New schedules or changes to schedules

CDTFA Contact

If you have questions regarding cigarette and tobacco products online filing, please call the CDTFA's Customer Service Center at 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711), Monday through Friday (excluding State holidays) between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time); from the main menu, select Special Taxes and Fees.

Or write to us at the following address:

California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
Special Taxes and Fees, MIC: 88
P.O. Box 942879
Sacramento, CA 94279-0088

In your written inquiries, please include the tax program you are inquiring about and provide contact information, such as name, account number, address, phone number, and email address.

Assistance for Persons with Disabilities

Assistance for persons with hearing or speech impairments can be obtained by calling our California Relay Service (CRS:711), Monday through Friday (excluding State holidays) between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Pacific Time.

Disclaimer

This guide summarizes the law and applicable regulations in effect when the document was written. Changes in the law or in regulations, however, may have occurred since that time. If there is a conflict between this guide and the law, decisions will be based on the law, and not this guide.