As we approach the 17th annual EITC Awareness Day on Friday, January 26, 2024, we want to remind you that you may be eligible for the newly expanded Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit.
The Michigan EITC, or the “Working Families Tax Credit,” is a tax benefit for working individuals with income below a certain level. In February, the Lowering MI Costs Plan goes into effect, permanently increasing the Michigan EITC from 6% to 30%.
This increase is retroactive, meaning if you filed and received the 6% Michigan EITC last year, you are entitled to a supplemental check from the Michigan Department of Treasury. Beginning February 13, the State will begin issuing checks to eligible taxpayers who claimed the EITC on their 2022 Federal Tax Return.
To be eligible for the Michigan EITC going forward, taxpayers must meet three conditions:
- Earn income.
- Meet federal EITC eligibility requirements
- File both state and federal tax returns, claiming the EITC on both
If you have moved since filing your 2022 tax return, update your address information by February 1 to ensure your check is mailed to the correct address and you receive your check. Use the IIT eServices to do so, and have your latest tax return on hand to make the process easier.
Here are a few important things you need to know:
- Do NOT file an amended Michigan tax return for this credit. The EITC will mail a check to the most recent address on file over a 5-6 week period beginning February 13. There is nothing else you need to do.
- File your 2023 state and federal tax return, claiming the EITC on both, promptly.
- File your 2022 tax returns if you haven’t already.
For assistance with filing your 2022 or 2023 tax return, or if you have questions about the EITC, we recommend connecting with a local free tax preparation service provider by calling 211 or checking out MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org for more information.