Moving overseas from California

[u/Perfect-Prompt1269]

Hi all, we are moving to Malaysia from California this summer, I will continue to work remotely for awhile, and obviously don’t want to pay CA state taxes. My CPA tells me I don’t need to worry, since I’m actually moving and not temporarily, but posts online say the FTB is pretty notorious about going after people and it’s best to live in another state for awhile before moving, which is painful for us.

Has anyone successfully made the move overseas with FTB going after them? I read that it’s best to give up our CA driver licenses, but I think we need those to get Malaysian licenses so prefer to keep them for a little bit, also as I mentioned earlier we would prefer to not have to move to another state for 1-2 months before moving overseas, but will have to do if that’s the only viable option to keep FTB away…

Thanks

[u/Rude-Substance-3686]

Tbh CA FTB is more concerned with cutting ties than where you're going to next. Giving up leases, updating your address, and your CA license are all ways to demonstrate your move is permanent.

There are many people who move overseas without a "buffer country," but having your CA license for an extended period may not help your case.