LANSING — Residents and businesses in parts of Southwest Michigan affected by last week’s severe storms may qualify for extra time to file state taxes.
Michigan State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks announced that taxpayers in Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph counties can request extensions on state tax filings and payments following the March 6 storms and tornadoes.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for the three counties on March 8 after multiple tornadoes caused damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure across the region.
Treasury officials say penalties and interest will be waived for eligible taxpayers who request the relief.
Eubanks says natural disasters can create unexpected financial stress, and the additional time is intended to help individuals and businesses focus on recovery.
The extension is not automatic. Taxpayers must contact the Michigan Department of Treasury to request the relief and explain how they were impacted by the storm.
Requests can be submitted online through Treasury’s e-services system, by mail, or by phone.
More information about eligibility and how to apply can be found at Michigan.gov/taxes.
Individual: https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/mitreasuryeservices
Business: https://etreas.michigan.gov/bt/home