$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Michigan Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Michigan
SSDI in Michigan - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Michigan - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Michigan as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Michigan?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. In Michigan you may also qualify for Medicaid sooner, since the state expanded coverage through the Healthy Michigan Plan.
How long does SSDI take in Michigan?
Michigan processes initial medical claims through Michigan Disability Determination Services. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Michigan - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Michigan - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Michigan, getting SSI also opens the door to Medicaid.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026. Michigan adds a small state supplement on top
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Michigan?
Yes. SSI approval automatically enrolls you in Michigan Medicaid, run by MDHHS. No separate application needed.
Does Michigan add to my SSI payment?
Yes, a little. Michigan pays a small State Supplementation on top of the federal amount, for example about $14 more per month for an individual living independently. The exact amount depends on your living arrangement.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Michigan
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Michigan
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
MICHIGAN PROPERTY TAX
100% exempt
Veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled owe no property tax on their Michigan home
Michigan Treasury, 2026
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Michigan offer extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Michigan fully exempts the home of a veteran rated 100% permanently and totally disabled from property tax, and the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency can help you file Form 5107. This is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Michigan
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Michigan
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Michigan?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Does Michigan offer free Medicare counseling?
Yes. Michigan runs a free State Health Insurance Assistance Program, known as MMAP (the MI Options Program), with trained counselors who help you compare plans at no cost. Turnout can also work with you one-on-one throughout the year.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Michigan
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Michigan
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
MICHIGAN EVAL TIMELINE
30 school days
Michigan schools must finish the evaluation and hold the IEP meeting within 30 school days of your written consent
Michigan Dept. of Education, 2026
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 26 enrolled in Michigan public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA and the Michigan special education rules, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional impairment, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Michigan?
Under the Michigan special education rules, the school must complete the evaluation and hold the meeting to develop the IEP within 30 school days of receiving your written consent, then begin services within 15 school days of the IEP.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Michigan
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Michigan residents.
Medicaid in Michigan
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Michigan residents.
Michigan Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at little or no cost. Michigan expanded Medicaid through the Healthy Michigan Plan, so adults under 65 can qualify based on income alone, up to 133% of the federal poverty level, with no asset test. It is run by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
2.6M+
Michiganders enrolled in Medicaid, about 1 in 4 residents
MDHHS, 2025
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
133% FPL
Adults 19 to 64 can qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan up to 133% of the poverty level, with no asset test
MDHHS / HealthInsurance.org, 2026
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0 for most
Most enrollees pay nothing; adults over 100% of poverty pay about 2% of income into an MI Health Account
MDHHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults 19 to 64 with income up to 133% of the federal poverty level through the Healthy Michigan Plan
- Children up to about 217% of poverty and pregnant women up to about 200% of poverty, with 12 months of postpartum coverage
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability
- SSI recipients are automatically enrolled
How to apply
Apply through MI Bridges at michigan.gov/mibridges, in person at your local MDHHS office, or by calling the MDHHS Beneficiary Help Line at 1-800-642-3195. Have proof of income, identity, and Michigan residency ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Michigan?
For most people, no, it is still Medicaid, run by MDHHS. The version for low-income adults 19 to 64 is called the Healthy Michigan Plan, but it is Medicaid coverage with the same core benefits.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Do I need to be almost broke to qualify in Michigan?
No. Because Michigan expanded Medicaid, adults can qualify on income up to 133% of the poverty level, and the Healthy Michigan Plan has no asset test. Working adults often qualify.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Michigan (Food Assistance Program)
Monthly grocery benefits on the Michigan Bridge Card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Michigan (Food Assistance Program)
Monthly grocery benefits on the Michigan Bridge Card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP, called the Food Assistance Program (FAP) in Michigan, is a federal program that helps qualifying households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto the Michigan Bridge Card and can be used at most grocery stores, plus many farmers markets and for online orders. The program is run by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~1.4M
Michiganders receive food assistance each month
MDHHS, 2025
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
MICHIGAN INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
Michigan raises the gross income limit to 200% of the poverty level, higher than the federal 130%, and has no asset test
MDHHS / Michigan Legal Help, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, higher than the federal standard
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Michigan
- Most adults age 18 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through MI Bridges at michigan.gov/mibridges, or in person at your local MDHHS office. An interview is required but can usually be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan uses a higher 200% poverty-level income limit than most states, so many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, and childcare are applied. Income alone does not tell the full story.
How long does food assistance take in Michigan?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and limited resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can usually be done by phone.
Can I use my Bridge Card online or at farmers markets?
Yes. The Michigan Bridge Card is accepted at most grocery stores, at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, and at many farmers markets, some of which double your dollars through Double Up Food Bucks.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Michigan
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Michigan
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid, food assistance, or FIP usually qualifies you automatically.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
ON MEDICAID OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medicaid, food assistance, or FIP automatically meets WIC's income test
USDA
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level can qualify
Michigan WIC, 2026
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving Medicaid, food assistance, or FIP are automatically income-eligible
- Michigan residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Call 1-800-942-1636 or your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Michigan residency, and proof of household income or proof of Medicaid, food assistance, or FIP enrollment. If approved, you receive your Michigan WIC Bridge Card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC in Michigan?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The approved items are set by Michigan's WIC food list and loaded onto your WIC Bridge Card.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit of 185% of poverty is higher than people expect, and being on Medicaid or food assistance usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Michigan (Home Heating and Energy Help)
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Michigan (Home Heating and Energy Help)
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Michigan's home energy assistance helps qualifying households pay heating and cooling bills. It comes in a few parts: the Home Heating Credit claimed through your taxes, State Emergency Relief for shutoff or crisis situations, and the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) run through local agencies. State Emergency Relief and MEAP are administered by MDHHS and community partners, with payments made toward your utility account.
CRISIS HELP
Up to $900
Maximum State Emergency Relief winter crisis benefit toward a past-due or shutoff energy bill
LIHEAP Clearinghouse (ACF), FY2026
HEATING CREDIT MAX
Up to $2,205
Maximum Home Heating Credit for the heating season, claimed on your Michigan tax return
LIHEAP Clearinghouse (ACF), FY2026
INCOME LIMIT
150% FPL
State Emergency Relief and crisis help use a 150% poverty limit; the Home Heating Credit uses 110%
LIHEAP Clearinghouse / Michigan MPSC, 2026
Who qualifies
- Michigan households with income at or below the program limit, 150% of poverty for crisis help and 110% for the Home Heating Credit
- Renters and homeowners paying energy bills, or paying energy costs included in rent
- Households facing a shutoff notice or already without service for crisis assistance
- Households on food assistance, FIP, or SSI are generally income-eligible
How to apply
For State Emergency Relief, apply through MI Bridges at michigan.gov/mibridges or your local MDHHS office, and bring a current utility bill, ID, proof of income, and any shutoff notice. For the Home Heating Credit, file Form MI-1040CR-7 with the Michigan Department of Treasury by September 30. For ongoing help, dial 2-1-1 to reach a Michigan Energy Assistance Program agency.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the Home Heating Credit and State Emergency Relief?
The Home Heating Credit is claimed on your Michigan tax return and helps with seasonal heating costs. State Emergency Relief is crisis help for a past-due bill or shutoff and is requested through MDHHS at any time of year.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
State Emergency Relief energy payments usually go directly to your utility company and are credited to your account. The Home Heating Credit may come as a check or an energy draft applied to your bill.
Can renters apply, or only homeowners?
Both can apply. If utilities are included in your rent, you may still qualify for the Home Heating Credit, and MDHHS can confirm how crisis help applies.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Michigan
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Michiganders.
ACA Subsidies in Michigan
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Michiganders.
ACA subsidies are federal tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace. Michigan uses HealthCare.gov rather than running its own exchange. Because Michigan expanded Medicaid, lower-income adults often qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan instead, while the marketplace covers those above the Medicaid limit.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
530K+
A record number of Michiganders enrolled in a marketplace plan for 2026
Michigan DIFS, 2026
WHO GETS SUBSIDIES
9 in 10
About 90% of Michigan marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
Michigan DIFS, 2026
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for 2027 coverage. Special enrollment is available year-round for qualifying life events
HealthCare.gov
Who qualifies
- Michiganders without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning above the Healthy Michigan Plan limit but who still need help with premiums
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Michigan
How to apply
Apply online at HealthCare.gov. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment (Nov 1 to Jan 15) or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local enrollment help is available.
Frequently asked questions
Does Michigan run its own health insurance marketplace?
No. Michigan uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov for 2026. Lawmakers have considered creating a state-based exchange, but it is not yet in operation.
What if my income is too low for ACA subsidies?
Apply anyway. HealthCare.gov screens you for the Healthy Michigan Plan and MIChild. Because Michigan expanded Medicaid, most lower-income adults qualify for Medicaid coverage rather than falling into a gap.
How much can I save with subsidies?
It depends on your income, household size, and plan. About 9 in 10 Michigan enrollees receive subsidies, applied automatically when you enroll through HealthCare.gov.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Michigan (Family Independence Program)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Michigan (Family Independence Program)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
The Family Independence Program (FIP) is Michigan's version of TANF. It provides monthly cash to families with children who have very limited income. The cash is loaded onto the Michigan Bridge Card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, and other essentials. The program is run by MDHHS and comes with a lifetime limit and a work requirement through the PATH program.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$583/mo
The maximum cash grant for a family of three with no other income, raised in December 2024. This is the payment, which is lower than the income eligibility limit
MDHHS RFT 210, 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
Michigan raised its cash assistance lifetime limit to 60 months, effective April 2025
MDHHS / Michigan Legal Help, 2026
INCOME LIMIT
$814/mo
A family of three can qualify with countable earned income at or below about $814 per month, one of the stricter tests in the country
MLPP / Single Mother Guide, 2026
Who qualifies
- Michigan residents responsible for a child under 18, or 18 and finishing high school
- Households with very low income under the FIP payment standard
- Adults must take part in the PATH work program unless deferred
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through MI Bridges at michigan.gov/mibridges, or in person at your local MDHHS office. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying through MI Bridges also screens you for food assistance and Medicaid. If approved, benefits are loaded onto the Michigan Bridge Card.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I receive FIP in Michigan?
Michigan applies a 60-month lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, raised from 48 months in April 2025. Some months may not count against the limit if you meet certain deferral conditions.
What's the difference between FIP and TANF?
They are the same thing. The Family Independence Program is simply Michigan's name for the federal TANF program, run by MDHHS.
Can I receive FIP and food assistance at the same time?
Yes. FIP recipients are generally categorically eligible for food assistance and Medicaid. Applying at MI Bridges screens you for all three at once.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Michigan (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Michigan (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. Michigan also has its own state EITC on top of the federal one, worth 30% of the federal credit, so Michigan workers get both.
FEDERAL WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 federal maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
MICHIGAN ADDS
30%
Michigan pays a state EITC worth 30% of your federal credit, on top of the federal amount
Michigan Treasury, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
Both the federal and Michigan credits are refundable, so you receive them even if you owe nothing
IRS / Michigan Treasury
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- Michigan residents automatically get the 30% state match when they claim the federal credit
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Michigan calculates your 30% state credit automatically when you file your Michigan return, so there is no separate form. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, and having children increases the amount. The Michigan 30% match applies either way.
Does Michigan have its own state EITC?
Yes. Michigan pays a state Earned Income Tax Credit worth 30% of your federal EITC, added automatically when you file your Michigan return. This is on top of the federal credit.
Will getting EITC affect my other benefits?
Generally no. EITC refunds aren't counted as income for programs like food assistance or Medicaid, and there are protections so a refund doesn't immediately count against asset limits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Michigan
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Michigan
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Michigan families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Michigan does not have a separate state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does Michigan have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. Michigan does not have a state-level Child Tax Credit. The federal credit is fully available to Michigan residents, but there is no additional state supplement on top of it.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Michigan
Subsidized child care for working Michigan families.
Child Care Assistance in Michigan
Subsidized child care for working Michigan families.
Michigan's Child Development and Care (CDC) program, sometimes called the child care scholarship, helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund. Eligibility is handled by MDHHS, with the program overseen by MiLEAP's Office of Child Development and Care. The program pays providers directly, with families paying a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size; lower-income families pay little to nothing
MiLEAP / MDHHS, 2026
INCOME LIMIT TO ENTER
200% FPL
Families can enter the program with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, about $4,442 a month for a family of three, and keep help on a higher exit scale
MDHHS RFT 270, 2026
ELIGIBILITY LOCKS IN
12 months
Once approved, children keep child care help for a full 12 months regardless of small income changes
MiLEAP, 2026
Who qualifies
- Michigan residents with a child under 13, or under 18 with a disability or special need
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households entering at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, with a higher exit limit to keep help
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply online through MI Bridges at michigan.gov/mibridges. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. Once approved, you choose a provider enrolled with the program, and eligibility is set for 12 months. There is no statewide waitlist.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose any provider enrolled with the Child Development and Care program, including licensed centers, licensed family homes, and some relative caregivers.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale family contribution applies based on your income and family size. Lower-income families may pay little to nothing, while families near the income limit pay more.
Is there a waitlist for child care help in Michigan?
No statewide waitlist is in place. Michigan raised its entry income limit to 200% of poverty, so more working families qualify, and approved children keep coverage for 12 months.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
