It continues to be an honor serving our community in the state Senate, where my colleagues and I have prioritized policies that support working families, seniors, and our local communities. We’ll keep fighting for more relief for those who need it most.
With tax season in full swing, I wanted to provide an update on how we’re working to keep more money in your pocket, as well as share some tips on how you can maximize your return ahead of the filing deadline, April 15, 2025.
As always, should you ever need assistance communicating with the Michigan Dept. of Treasury or any other state agency throughout the year, please do not hesitate to reach out to me and my office.
Sincerely,
Kevin Hertel
State Senator
District 12
Rising costs are making it harder for families to put food on the table and fill up their gas tank. To help support Michiganders facing economic challenges, my colleagues and I passed the Lowering MI Costs Plan in 2023 — the biggest tax relief initiative Michigan has seen in decades, which cut taxes by $1 billion for folks who need it most. This plan repealed the unfair retirement tax and expanded tax credits for working families to help them not only make ends meet but thrive here in Michigan.
Take Advantage of the Largest Tax Break for Working Families in Michigan History
Historic expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit saves families thousands of dollars a year
I’ve been focused on cutting taxes and making it easier for folks to raise their family here in Michigan. That’s why I worked to deliver the biggest tax break for working families in Michigan history. During the last legislative session, we quintupled Michigan’s match of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from 6% to 30% to help families save an average of $3,150 when combined with the federal credit.
What is it? The Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a tax benefit for working individuals with income below a certain level.
What benefits does it provide? It reduces the taxes you owe, putting more money in your pocket! Even if you do not owe taxes, it could result in a refund. This extra income can help you care for your family, meet living expenses, or save for the future.
Who qualifies? To qualify for the Michigan EITC, you must qualify for the federal EITC. You can verify your eligibility here.
How can I claim it? Verify your federal EITC eligibility, file your federal income tax return with the IRS and claim the federal EITC, then file the Michigan individual income tax return and claim the Michigan EITC. For more information, click here.
You can check your eligibility and claim your EITC online at IRS.gov.
Learn How the Retirement Tax Rollback Can Help You Save During Your Golden Years
By repealing the retirement tax, we’re helping Michigan retirees save up to $1,000 more a year
Michigan’s retirement tax robbed seniors of their promised retirement benefits for more than a decade. That’s why I led the effort to repeal this unfair tax, which will help nearly 500,000 seniors save $1,000 annually — enabling them to enjoy a safe, secure, and happy retirement.
Until the full repeal takes effect in 2026, you have multiple options to choose from when it comes to your retirement benefits. You may wish to consult a qualified tax preparer to ensure you can deduct the maximum amount of retirement benefits. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/taxes.
AVOID SCAMS
For federal returns, the IRS will only initiate contact with you through regular mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. Do not share your personal tax information via phone, email, or social media. Learn more here.
UTILIZE FREE RESOURCES
Michigan Free Tax Help connects Michiganders with free, high-quality income tax preparation assistance. Visit MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org to find local help.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AVAILABLE DEDUCTIONS
You can deduct charitable contributions, property taxes, medical expenses and more from your federal 2024 taxes. Find a full list of deductions here.
As you navigate tax season this year, if you need assistance with the Michigan Treasury or any other state department, please know that we are here to help. You can reach us by phone or email or stop by our District Office in St. Clair Shores.
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(586) 252-2157 | SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov | 28800 Harper Avenue, St. Clair Shores, MI 48081