Gov. Whitmer Reminds Michigan Families to Take Advantage of Tax Savings Programs, Putting Thousands of Dollars on Average Back in People’s Pockets 

TODAY is the deadline to file state and federal income tax returns in the U.S. 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer encouraged eligible Michiganders to claim both the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), also known as the Working Families Tax Credit, when filing their 2024 individual income tax returns. By signing legislation to quintuple Michigan’s state match of the federal EITC in 2023,  Michiganders can get an average federal and state refund of $3,200. Additionally, she rolled back Michigan’s retirement tax, saving thousands of senior households an average of $1,000 on their taxes this year when fully phased in. 

“For too long, working families have paid more on taxes than they should,” said Governor Whitmer. “That’s why I rolled back the retirement tax and quintupled the Working Families Tax Credit, saving hundreds of thousands of Michiganders money on their taxes. By putting more money back in Michiganders’ pockets, more families can afford college for their kids, pay the bills, or save for a rainy day. I’ll keep working with anyone who is serious about lowering costs and making sure people can make it in Michigan.” 

“Tax time is the best time for Michiganders to get more money back in their pockets,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Thanks to our actions to roll back the retirement tax and expand the Working Families Tax Credit, Michiganders can get more money back this tax season. We’ll keep working to lower costs for Michiganders and Stand Tall so everyone can ‘make it’ in Michigan.” 

“Michiganders should file their state individual income tax returns or request an extension before the April 15 deadline,” said state Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “Even if you don’t typically file a tax return, I encourage you to do so to take advantage of tax credits and other benefits. Please seek out assistance from a reputable tax preparer or electronically file to ensure you receive all eligible benefits.” 

Working Families Tax Credit  

In 2023, Governor Whitmer signed legislation to quintuple the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for  working families. This year, 650,000 families—home to half the kids in Michigan— will get an average combined federal and state tax refund of $3,200. 

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. 

Retirement Tax Rollback 

In 2023, Governor Whitmer signed legislation to rollback the retirement tax. Since then, she has continued this rollback, saving hundreds of thousands of senior households an average of $1,000 on their taxes. 

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 after the April 15 deadline. Penalty and interest will be waived. Individuals have to contact Michigan’s Department of Treasury to determine the length of the extension.