Downloading/Printing Questions

Question: My browser gives me an error message that it can't handle the format of the document. What do I need to view the forms?

Answer: The forms are in the Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF). You may need to download the free Adobe Reader to view and print linked documents.

Question: Where do I get the Adobe Reader?

Answer: You can download the free Adobe Reader from Adobe's Web site.

Question: I'm not familiar with downloading and installing software. How do I install the Adobe Reader?

Answer: Adobe has detailed instructions for many languages, platforms (for example, Windows and MacIntosh), and connection speeds on their site. It is a good idea to print those pages so you have the instructions handy while you install their software.

Question: My printer says it doesn't have enough memory to print the forms. What can I do?

Answer: Go to Adobe Reader Support . You’ll find links to troubleshoot downloading, printing, and other problems. They also have a "Search" feature to find tutorials and troubleshooting information.

Fill-In Form Questions

Question: I tried typing an X in a form box, but it didn't work. How do I check the box?

Answer: Click on the box or hit the space bar to check/uncheck the box.

Question: When I type something on a fill-in form and tab to the next field, the data in the first field disappears; when I click on that field again, it's still there. When I print the form, only some of the data that I typed prints out. What's wrong?

Answer: You are probably using an older version of Adobe Reader. If you upgrade your Adobe Reader, the form should work correctly.

Question: When using the DE 6 fill-in form, I can't fill in the quarter number and middle initial boxes. What can I do?

Answer: Increase the magnification of the form. The zoom button looks like a magnifying glass with a plus sign. Click on the zoom, then on the form to enlarge it. Click on the box you want to fill in, then continue tabbing to and filling in each box.

Other Questions

Question: Are these Internet forms scannable?

Answer: No. At present, the EDD scans the DE 88, DE 6, and DE 7. The Internet form is an acceptable format; however, the red preprinted forms provided by EDD are preferred to the Internet form. EDD is determining the feasibility of providing forms via the Internet that can be scanned for users who print high volumes of the forms. Many users still would not be able to produce a scannable version of the form because it would be necessary to have printing equipment that could print with the appropriate ink.

Question: I can't install the Adobe Reader now. Can tax forms and publications be faxed to me?

Answer: Yes, tax forms, publications, and Information Sheets are available through our Fax on Demand system toll-free at (877) 547-4503. This automated service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to customers calling within the United States and Canada.

Note: Reporting forms such as the DE 6 and DE 7 are not available by fax. For other ways to get these forms, see Obtaining Tax Forms and Publications.

For assistance with downloading or filling in forms, call the Tax Branch Internet Coordinator at (916) 653-9356 or click on "Contact Us" below.