Tax Returns Must Be Filed by April 15, 2024

LANSING, Mich. – Taxpayers who have not yet filed their state income tax returns are urged to take advantage of the last weekend before the Monday, April 15, deadline to ensure accuracy, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury (Treasury).

"Rushing to complete a tax return could lead to inaccuracies and refund delays," State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. "The last weekend before the filing deadline is a great opportunity to thoroughly complete and file your individual income tax return. Electronic filing enables taxpayers to file their returns conveniently and accurately."

Choosing electronic filing and direct deposit is convenient, safe and secure. Last year, around 4.7 million Michigan taxpayers e-filed, which is 90% of state individual income tax filers. For more information about e-filing, go to www.mifastfile.org.

Individuals with low 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, www.michiganfreetaxhelp.org or dial 2-1-1.

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. 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.
   
• Get the right routing and account numbers. Requesting direct deposit of a state tax refund is convenient and enables the taxpayer to access their money faster. Make sure the financial institution's routing and account numbers entered on the return are accurate.
   
• 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.

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, 2024. 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, 2024, to avoid additional interest and penalties. An extension to file is not an extension to pay.

Some taxpayers impacted by last year’s storm may qualify for an extension.

Earned Income Tax Credit for Working Families

For the 2023 tax year, Michigan quintupled the Earned Income Tax Credit for working families.

To qualify, individuals must meet certain requirements and file a federal income tax return, even if no tax is owed or there is no requirement to file a return. 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.

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 its Treasury eServices platform.

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

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