Michigan Taxpayers Warned: Some IRS Refunds Automatically Delayed

If you’ve already filed your taxes and you’re constantly refreshing your bank account waiting for that refund to hit, here’s something you need to know. The IRS says if you claimed either the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit, your refund is automatically delayed. But it’s not because you messed anything up.

Why Some Michigan Taxpayers Will See Refund Delays

MLive reports that this goes back to a federal law called the PATH Act. By law, the IRS cannot issue refunds tied to those credits before mid-February.

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And here’s the part that surprises people: it delays your entire refund, not just the portion connected to the credit. The extra time is used to verify income and confirm identities to cut down on fraud.

How Much The Earned Income And Child Tax Credits Are Worth

These credits can be worth real money. The Earned Income Tax Credit can be up to $649 if you have no children, and as much as $8,046 if you have three or more.

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The Child Tax Credit is worth $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, and up to $1,700 of that can be refundable through the Additional Child Tax Credit.

When Michigan Filers Can Expect Their IRS Refund

If you filed online, chose direct deposit, and everything checks out, the IRS says you should see your refund by March 2. If there’s an issue with your return, they will contact you, and that can push things back even further.

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Normally, most people who e-file and use direct deposit get their refund within about 21 days. You can track the status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool, which usually updates about 24 hours after you file electronically. And don’t forget, the deadline to file is April 15, 2026. Miss it, and penalties can apply.