LANSING, Mich. — While many file their taxes for 2023, some Michiganders might be surprised to get a check from tax year 2022.
It's part of the Michigan's Working Families Tax Credit, which is based on the federal Earned Income Tax Credit.
The governor's office said the checks will put an average of $550 into Michiganders' pockets in more than 700,000 Michigan households as a part of $1 billion in tax cuts.
“Last year, the majority in the Michigan Legislature and I quintupled the Working Families Tax Credit, which will put hundreds more dollars back in the pockets of 700,000 working families,” said Gov. Whitmer. “These checks...will lift tens of thousands of people out of working poverty and directly benefit half the children in Michigan by helping their moms and dads pay the bills, put food on the table, and buy school supplies. We got your back in Michigan as you work hard and support your family. Together, let’s build a brighter future and a stronger economy.”
The checks were mailed out in February.
In order to qualify for the credit, individuals must meet certain requirements. You can find a list of those requirements here.
To qualify you must also have filed a federal income tax return, even if no tax is owed or there is no requirement to file a return. The governor's office said that if a federal credit is granted, the state of Michigan will then provide an additional 30% credit when the taxpayer files their state income tax return.
So why are Michiganders receiving these checks now?
Well, initially when taxpayers filed for the 2022 year, those who were eligible for the Michigan Working Families Tax Credit received a 6% credit. The new state law, which became effective on Feb. 13, brings that 6% up to 30%. Eligible taxpayers are receiving the remaining 24% now in the checks that began being mailed out in February after the law took effect.
Even though the law took effect in February of 2024, it was written to apply to the 2022 tax year and each year following.
“Michigan’s Working Families Tax Credit at the 30% rate applies to the 2022 tax year and beyond,” said State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “I encourage those who are eligible for this tax credit to explore filing electronically or connecting with a reputable tax preparer when filing a return this year. Thousands of dollars could be left on the table if these credits are not claimed.”
The governor's office said the first checks were mailed out as soon as the law took effect and that all checks would be mailed out over a 5-to-6-week period.
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