Real estate withholding is a prepayment of income tax due from the selling of California land or anything on it (real property). To claim the withholding credit you must file a California tax return.Report the sale or transfer as required. What forms are used to report withholding to the Franchise Tax Board? Currently California Forms 593 and 593V are used to report and remit withholding. What is the California law for withholding on the sale of California real property? " It is not an additional tax on the sale of the real estate. The law does not provide for early refunds of taxes withheld on sales of real estate. You must file your California tax return to claim the amount withheld. 9. A: Form 593 imposes a withholding obligation on the buyer.