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 — The Working Families Tax Credit, the first bill passed by the Democratic majorities and signed by Governor Whitmer in 2023, has gone into effect. The credit is putting cash in the pockets of those who need it most – Michigan families.
Supplemental Checks Going to Families
Last month, the Whitmer administration announced that in mid-February, the state 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 a resident has moved frequently or recently and have concerns about their address accuracy, they can manually update it through IIT eService. Visit how to change your address with Treasury for more information.
The Whitmer administration is also reminding Michiganders about free tax help for certain filers. 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.
“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.”
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%.
“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.”
Additional free tax help can be found at www.michiganfreetaxhelp.org.
