January 26, 2024 

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Gov. Whitmer Encourages Eligible Michiganders to Claim the Working Families Tax Credit  

Governor signed legislation quintupling the credit in 2023, boosting refunds to an average of $3,150—$600 more than before—for 700,000 families 

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 2023 individual income tax returns. Those who qualify and claim the tax credit could pay less federal and state taxes, pay no tax or even get a tax refund. Last year, Governor Whitmer signed legislation quintupling Michigan’s state match of the federal EITC, increasing the average refund by over $600. 

“The Working Families Tax Credit, also known as the EITC, delivers an average combined refund of $3,150 to 700,000 Michigan families," said Governor Whitmer. “Last year, with our new legislative majority, we quintupled Michigan’s credit, which will put hundreds more dollars in people’s pockets starting this year. The Working Families Tax Credit directly benefits half the kids in Michigan, and moms and dads use the extra money at tax time to pay the bills, put food on the table, and buy school supplies. From small towns to downtowns, the Working Families Tax Credit empowers families across Michigan. I encourage every eligible Michigander to take advantage of the credit when you file this year." 

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 up to an additional 30% credit when the taxpayer files their state income tax return. 

The amount of the federal EITC depends on income, filing status and number of qualifying children claimed as dependents on the taxpayer’s federal income tax return. The EITC reduces the amount of tax owed and may provide a refund. 

“I encourage Michiganders to check with a reputable tax preparer or use tax preparation software to see if they can claim the EITC on their federal and state tax returns,” said State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “The extra income provided by this tax credit can help working families care for their children and meet living expenses. It’s important for working families to see if they’re eligible. Please seek out tax preparation help if you think you qualify and need assistance.” 

The IRS reports the average federal EITC claimed on returns from Michigan was $2,587 last year. The average Michigan EITC was $154, with the credit at 6%.  

The additional 24% adjustment checks for tax year 2022 will average $618 per recipient.  

Tax Year 2022 Michigan EITC Supplemental Checks 

In mid-February, the Whitmer Administration will begin issuing supplemental check payments over a 5-to-6-week period to provide eligible taxpayers with the remaining 24% portion of the Michigan EITC for the 2022 tax year. 

These paper check payments will be issued to the most recent address on file with Treasury. Treasury routinely updates taxpayer address records based on current tax filings, so your address should be up to date. However, if you have moved frequently or recently and have concerns about your address accuracy, you can manually update it through IIT eService. Visit how to change your address with Treasury for more information. 

Do not file an amended 2022 individual income tax return to change your address or claim the increased Michigan EITC. 

Free Tax Help 

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 or dial 2-1-1. 

Additional free tax help can be found at www.michiganfreetaxhelp.org.  

About EITC Awareness Day 

To inform and educate taxpayers about the importance of the EITC for working families, the Internal Revenue Service and Michigan Department of Treasury celebrate EITC Awareness Day on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. 

To learn more about the EITC, go to www.irs.gov/eitc. More information about state of Michigan income taxes can be found at www.michigan.gov/incometax. 

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