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General Filing Tips

Individual Income Tax Tips
General Filing Tips

  1. File electronically (e-file) for fast and secure tax return processing. Tax returns can be e-filed using tax preparation software or filed directly with Treasury for free through Michigan Treasury eServices.

    Paper returns take longer to process, are more prone to errors, and have a higher risk of being lost or stolen.

  2. Remember that filing an extension only extends the time to file, not the time to pay.

    Payments made after the original due date will incur penalties and interest.

  3. Select the correct filing status (single, married filing jointly, or married filing separately) before submitting a return.

    Filing status cannot be changed after the return due date.

  4. Include your spouse’s Social Security number (SSN) on your return, even if your filing status is “married filing separately”.

    If this information is missing or unclear, it stops the return from automatically processing, and Treasury must send a letter requesting this information.

  5. Provide full address details (unit, apartment, lot number, etc.) on your return.

    Incomplete or incorrect address information may result in reduced credits and/or prevent receipt of Treasury letters or refunds.

  6. Fill out all lines that apply to you and enter totals where needed. Review the return to make sure nothing that needs to be reported is left blank.

    Missing information prevents Treasury from automatically processing the return, resulting in delays.

  7. If selecting direct deposit for refund, verify all direct deposit details before filing the return with Treasury. Ensure the account holder’s name matches the name on the tax return, select the correct account type (checking or savings), confirm routing and account numbers, and include direct deposit information when filing amended returns.

    Treasury cannot update direct deposit information once a return has been received. Incorrect banking information results in refunds being mailed to the address on file instead of direct deposited.

  8. Before mailing returns or payments, verify that Michigan returns and payments are addressed to the Michigan Department of Treasury and federal returns and payments are addressed to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Double check both the mailing address and contents of envelopes before sealing. If mailing a payment for an e-filed return, be sure to include the MI-1040-V voucher alongside your check or money order.

    Sending tax returns to the wrong address causes processing delays. Mailed payments sent to Treasury are deposited automatically, and you must submit a refund request to have misdirected funds returned. If you e-filed and mail a payment without including the MI-1040-V, Treasury will not know where to apply the payment.

  9. If amending a return, submit a complete amended return, including the updated MI-1040, all supporting schedules and forms, and proof that the IRS accepted your amended federal return (if applicable). IRS acceptance can be sent via mail, through Michigan Treasury eServices, or using the instructions in a Treasury letter you receive.

    Treasury cannot process an amended return without all required documents. Missing information will result in a request for additional information and will delay processing.