The biggest benefit I have observed is that our management staff is now on the same page and working toward clear, concise goals with a team mentality. They are highly motivated because they can actually measure and see the results of their hard work. I now have more confidence in my staff to understand and take...

Rob Sinskey of Robert Sinskey Vineyards

California Individual Estimated Payments - Safe Harbor rules

Generally, taxpayers can avoid paying California penalties for underpayment of estimated taxes by paying the lesser of the following:

1. 90% of the current year's tax
or
2. 100% of the preceeding year's tax

But high income taxpayers must meet some different standards as listed below:

1. When current year AGI exceeds $150,000 ($75,000 if married filing separately) but is less than $1,000,000 ($500,000 if married filing separately), they must pay in 110% of the prior year's amount to avoid the penalty.

2. Individuals with annual AGI of $1,000,000 or more must pay in 90% of the current year's tax to avoid a penalty.

See also electronic deposit requirements for high income taxpayers.

You can get more information from the Franchise Tax Board website.