Federal, State Tax Filing Deadline is Today

( May 17, 2021 8:54 AM) With taxpayers required to either e-file or mail their federal and state individual income tax returns by midnight tonight, the Michigan Department of Treasury has some tips to help last-minute filers submit an accurate return.

“There is still time to file your state individual income tax return,” said Deputy State Treasurer Glenn White, who oversees Treasury’s Revenue Services programs. “Please thoroughly complete your state tax return and don’t rush. An inaccurate return could lead to processing delays.”

To ensure an accurate income tax return is filed with the state of Michigan:

• File electronically. Taxpayers can go to www.michigan.gov/mifastfile to learn more about e-filing options.
• Mail a paper return to the right address. To avoid processing delays, paper filers should carefully follow tax form instructions when sending a paper return to a specific address.
• Fill in all requested information clearly. When entering information on the tax return, take the time to ensure information is accurate and easy to read.
• Review all figures. While software catches and prevents many errors on e-filed returns, math errors remain common on paper returns.
• Get the right routing and account numbers. Requesting direct deposit of a state tax refund is convenient and enables the taxpayer to access their money faster. Make sure the financial institution’s routing and account numbers entered on the return are accurate.
• Sign and date the return. If paper filing a joint return, both spouses must sign and date the return. Most e-file software platforms allow electronic signatures.
• Submit all the required forms. Paper filers should carefully follow the instructions and attach all forms as indicated. If possible, use a paperclip, binder clip or rubber band to hold all documents together.
• Keep a copy of the return. Taxpayers should make a copy of their signed return and all supporting schedules for their personal records. Records should be kept for six years.
• Request a filing extension. Taxpayers who owe payment and need more time to file their state individual income tax return can file for a six-month extension by completing an Application for Extension of Time to File Michigan Tax Returns (Form 4) and have it postmarked by May 17.  This allows an extension of time to file, but not to pay.  Taxpayers must still pay tax liabilities by May 17.
• Owe tax? If so, payments can be made using Michigan’s e-Payments service. When mailing checks, carefully follow tax form instructions. Treasury will work with taxpayers who cannot pay the full amount of tax they owe.

The Internal Revenue Service says the most important thing everyone with a tax bill should do is file a return by the May 17 due date, even if they can’t pay in full, or request a six-month extension to avoid higher penalties for failing to file on time. Though automatic tax-filing extensions are available to anyone who wants one, these extensions don’t change the payment deadline. It is not an extension to pay. Visit IRS.gov/extensions for details.

Usually anyone who owes tax and waits until after that date to file will be charged a late-filing penalty of 5% per month. So, if a tax return is done, filing it by May 17 is always less costly, even if the full amount due can’t be paid on time.

Free File is available to anyone who makes $72,000 or less and is available on IRS.gov.

Questions?

Taxpayers with questions about their state income taxes are encouraged to use Treasury eServices. The online platform enables taxpayers to ask state income tax-related questions when convenient and avoids the extended wait times for calls this time of year.

To get started with Treasury eServices, go to www.michigan.gov/incometax and click on “eServices Individual Income Tax.”  For questions on Federal returns, filings and payments, visit irs.gov.