A tax return is a form on which a person or entity reports income, deductions, and exemptions to the federal or state taxing authority (IRS or state tax authority), and on which the person or entity’s income tax liability is calculated.
In Michigan, as in all states, a tax return is a document filed with the state's Department of Treasury to report income, claim deductions, and determine the amount of state income tax owed. This is separate from the federal tax return filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Michigan residents use Form MI-1040 for individual income tax returns. The state tax return includes various schedules and forms for different types of income, deductions, and credits. Michigan's tax laws conform in many ways to federal tax laws, but there are also unique state-specific rules and exemptions. Taxpayers in Michigan must file their state tax return by April 15th, the same deadline as the federal tax return, unless an extension is granted. It's important to comply with both state and federal tax laws to avoid penalties and interest charges for late or incorrect filings.