State Treasurer Urges Michiganders to Use Time Available Before Tax Day to File Returns

LANSING, Mich. – State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks today asked Michiganders to use the time available before the April 15 deadline to ensure an accurate individual income tax return is filed. 

Filing a tax return enables eligible taxpayers to receive important tax credits and other benefits.  Filing on a timely basis avoids late penalties and interest.

“Both working and older Michiganders now have options to lessen the amount of tax owed or provide a refund,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “Rushing to complete a return could lead to inaccuracies causing refund or processing delays. If you have not filed your income taxes, take this last weekend before the deadline to thoroughly complete and file your individual income tax return to avoid missed opportunities in receiving eligible tax benefits. Electronic filing is a great way for taxpayers to file their returns conveniently and accurately.”

Choosing electronic filing and direct deposit is convenient, safe and secure. Last year, of the approximately 5 million returns received by Treasury, Michigan taxpayers e-filed more than 91% of those returns. For more information about e-filing, go to mifastfile.org.

Additional information for filing an accurate and complete return include:

• Fill in all requested information. When entering information on the tax return, take the time to ensure information is accurate. Pay close attention to the addition and or subtraction lines. Information on paper returns should be legible and easy to read.
• Review all numbers. While software catches and prevents many errors on e-filed returns, math errors remain common on paper returns.
• Provide the right routing and account numbers. Requesting direct deposit of a state tax refund is convenient, enhances security and enables the taxpayer to access their money faster compared to a mailed paper check. Make sure the financial institution's routing and account numbers are entered on the return accurately.
• Sign and date the return. If paper filing a joint return, both spouses must sign and date the return. Most e-file software platforms allow electronic signatures.
• Submit all the required forms. Paper filers should carefully follow the instructions and attach all forms as indicated. If possible, use a paperclip, binder clip or rubber band to hold all documents together.
• Owe tax? Taxpayers can pay their outstanding tax balance by check, money order, eCheck, debit or credit card.

Earned Income Tax Credit for Working Families

Recently, Michigan quintupled the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for Working Families.

To qualify, individuals must meet certain federal requirements and file a federal income tax return, even if no tax is owed or there is no requirement to file. If a federal credit is granted, the state of Michigan will provide an additional 30% credit when the taxpayer files their state income tax return. Taxpayers are encouraged to check to see if they are eligible. Both federal and state tax credits reduce the amount of tax owed and may provide a refund.

For the 2023 tax year, more than 653,000 recipients received the Michigan EITC, with an average credit at $836.

“Retirement Tax” Rollback Continues

The “retirement tax” rollback continues for tax year 2024 retirement and pension benefits.

Over a four-year phase-in, state law restores the pre-2012 retirement and pension subtraction for most taxpayers in Michigan. This change benefits retirees in Michigan while ensuring taxpayers in unique circumstances are not harmed.

For qualifications and guidance, visit Treasury’s Retirement and Pension Estimator. This resource can help individuals determine the eligible deduction or subtraction with the greatest value. 

Need filing help?

Taxpayers are encouraged to consult a qualified tax preparer and explore the tax benefits available for their situation.

Individuals with low to moderate income, disabilities or who are 60 years of age or older may qualify for free tax preparation help from IRS-certified volunteers. For information about free tax help, go to irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep or dial 2-1-1.

Additional free or low-cost tax help can be found at michiganfreetaxhelp.org.

Need an extension?

Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file a return beyond the April 15 deadline can request an extension to Oct. 15, 2025. Taxpayers can request additional time to file by using MI Form 4, Instructions for Application for Extension of Time to File Michigan Tax Returns.
Taxpayers requesting additional time to file should also estimate their tax liability and pay any taxes owed by April 15, 2025, to avoid additional interest and penalties. An extension to file is not an extension to pay.
Taxpayers affected by the severe winter weather emergency in Northen Michigan can qualify for an extension.

Have questions?

Michigan taxpayers who have questions about or need help with their individual income tax returns or refunds can digitally connect with the state Treasury Department through the Individual Income Tax eService platform.

Allow 4 weeks from the date you receive your e-filed state tax return confirmation or 8 weeks from the postmark date on your mailed state tax return to receive your refund. After that timeframe, you can check the status at michigan.gov/wheresmyrefund.

To learn more about Michigan's individual income tax or to download forms, go to michigan.gov/incometax. For more information from Treasury, go to michigan.gov/Treasury or follow @MiTreasury on X or LinkedIn.