The withholding rate is 7 percent of the following: Gross payments made to nonresident independent contractors for services performed in California. If you have any doubt about the requirement to withhold, go ahead and do it and use a Form 1042.Withhold on payments to nonresident independent contractors, including entertainers. • Withhold on rent or royalty payments to nonresidents. Independent contractors receive payments without tax withholding and are responsible for paying their own taxes, typically filing a 1099-NEC instead of a W-2. Generally, if you work in California, whether you're a resident or not, you have to pay income taxes on the wages you earn for those services. Every person who engages in business within the City of Los Angeles is required to obtain the necessary TRC(s) and pay the business tax or obtain an exemption. Please note that not all payees will qualify for the exemption and therefore it is not mandatory for the payee to complete the CA Form 590. USC will not withhold any employment taxes from compensation it pays Contractor. California payroll taxes start with employees filling out DE 44.