Another thing to check - make sure your payment amount matches exactly what FTB expects. Sometimes if there's even a penny difference from what they calculated vs what you're trying to pay, the system will reject it. I learned this the hard way after multiple failed attempts. You can usually find the exact amount due on your notice or by logging into your FTB account. Also, some payment processors have daily limits, so if it's a large amount, that might be causing issues too.

I've been through this exact same nightmare! What worked for me was using an incognito/private browser window. Sometimes the FTB website gets confused with stored cookies and session data. Also, make sure you're not using any browser extensions that might interfere with the payment process (like ad blockers or password managers). I had to disable my VPN too - apparently FTB doesn't like it when your IP address looks suspicious. Give those a try before you go the phone route!

Have you checked your business entity status on the Secretary of State website? Sometimes the FTB and SOS don't communicate well, and your business might actually be active there.

I went through something similar last year! The FTB had my LLC suspended for over 18 months despite submitting all the paperwork correctly. What finally worked for me was sending a certified letter with copies of all my documentation (revival certificate, payment receipts, etc.) directly to their Sacramento office. Include a cover letter explaining the timeline and requesting immediate action. I also cc'd my state assemblyman's office - sometimes a little political pressure helps move things along. Within 3 weeks of sending that letter, my business was finally revived. Don't give up - the squeaky wheel gets the grease with these agencies!

Quick tip: If you end up needing to call the IRS, try calling right when they open in the morning. I've had better luck getting through that way. Also, Tuesdays and Wednesdays seem to be less busy than Mondays or Fridays.

This exact thing happened to my sister last year! Turned out her tax preparer had automatically applied for the EITC without asking her. She didn't qualify either and had to send back documentation proving her income was too high. The whole thing was resolved in about 6 weeks once she responded. Don't stress too much - just gather your documents and respond promptly. The IRS is actually pretty reasonable when it's an honest mistake like this.

LPT: Set a reminder to double-check your tax settings every year. I forgot about an old automatic payment and ended up overpaying. What a headache to get that money back!

Maya, I went through this exact situation last year! The key is to call the FTB directly rather than going through TurboTax first. When you call, have your SSN and the exact amount of the scheduled payment ready - they'll need it to locate your account quickly. Also, ask them to confirm the cancellation date so you know exactly when it takes effect. The rep I spoke with was actually pretty helpful once I got through. Given your job situation, they might also be able to help you set up a more manageable payment plan if you still owe anything. Good luck!

Hey OP, just curious - how long ago did you make the payment they're saying you didn't make?

This is so stressful! I had a similar issue last year where they claimed I owed money despite having proof of payment. What really helped me was creating a timeline document with all payment dates, confirmation numbers, and any correspondence. Also, when you call, ask for a supervisor right away if the first person can't help - don't waste time with someone who doesn't have authority to fix it. The whole process took about 6 weeks to resolve, but they did eventually clear everything up and removed the lien. Stay strong and keep all your documentation organized!