Michigan tax deadline April 15; ice storm victims can ask for more time
- The Michigan tax filing deadline is Tuesday
- You can apply for an extension but any owed taxes must still be paid by the deadline
- Residents affected by the recent ice storms can request more time to file
Procrastinators, time’s almost up. The deadline to file federal and state individual income taxes is quickly approaching: Tuesday, April 15.
To avoid penalties, taxpayers must ensure their returns are either submitted electronically or postmarked by midnight on that date.
As usual, taxpayers can request an extension from the IRS. And even if they don’t have a federal extension, people in counties affected by the recent ice storms in Northern Michigan can request additional time to send in state returns.
How can I file my taxes?
The Michigan Department of Treasury encourages taxpayers to file electronically, because it’s faster and more convenient. E-filing also increases the likelihood of receiving a refund sooner.
Residents can also file by mail, which can take longer to process. Note that the federal government will stop issuing paper checks effective Sept. 30.
Related:
- When to file Michigan state taxes and what's new in 2024
- Give an organ, get a $10,000 Michigan tax credit
Taxpayers can choose to file electronically on their own using approved software or work with a tax professional. To find a qualified preparer, individuals can use the IRS Authorized e-file Provider Locator tool.
In addition to the IRS free file forms online, there are several services for residents who need help and are looking to file their taxes for free. In most cases, you have to have an adjusted gross income of $45,000 or less, qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit or be on active military duty.
For those who can't use the free online filing options, there are paid software programs available, as well as a wide range of professional tax preparers for hire.
While Michigan doesn’t mandate licenses for tax preparers, state officials advise taxpayers to consider factors like the preparer’s experience, any formal training or certifications and how fees are determined.
They also caution against choosing preparers who promise unusually large refunds or who base their fees on the size of the client’s refund.
If I need an extension, what do I do?
Taxpayers who need extra time to file can submit a request for a state or federal extension by April 15. This extension grants an additional six months to complete and file tax returns. However, any taxes owed are still due by April 18 to avoid added penalties or interest. For those unable to pay the full amount by the deadline, the IRS offers payment plan options.
Any estimated taxes owed must still be paid by April. 15 or the taxpayer risks penalties such as interest on the unpaid taxes. The IRS also offers payment plans for owed taxes.
When is the deadline to file if I have an extension?
The last day to file your 2024 taxes with an extension is Oct. 15.
How long does it take for my refund to come?
It can take up to four weeks from the time you received your confirmation number to receive your tax return. Taxpayers can check the status of their return online.
Relief for individuals and businesses impacted by severe weather
Those who were impacted by the winter storms that began on March 28, which left thousands in northern Michigan without power for days, may qualify for state tax extensions.
Taxpayers and businesses in Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties can request additional time to file their tax return and make payments without penalties or interest.
"Treasury can waive penalty and interest due to hardships, like a weather-related emergency.” the state said in a statement to Bridge. “For hardship, it depends on the situation. It can be 30 days or longer. Penalty and interest will be waived."
Taxpayers must contact Department of Treasury by telephone, mail or electronic services to request relief, providing the following information:
- Name and account number of the individual or business taxpayer
- A description of how the taxpayer was affected by the winter weather and ice accumulation
- Taxpayer address within the emergency area or the address of the tax preparer located within the emergency area
The relief doesn’t apply to any federal or city income tax deadlines.
Changes to the 2024 tax season
Some Michigan residents may qualify for a new tax credit this year. Live organ donors in Michigan can receive a tax credit of up to $10,000 to cover non-medical expenses like child care, transportation, lodging, and lost wages.
For information on other changes affecting 2024 state tax returns, visit this site and for updated federal tax information, visit this site.
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