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Home→Tools→Post-Death Tax Filing Guide→Michigan

How Do I File Taxes for a Deceased Person in Michigan?

Find out which tax returns you need to file after someone dies. See state-specific forms, deadlines, and whether tax clearance is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

At minimum, a final federal income tax return (Form 1040) and a final Michigan income tax return (MI-1040) must be filed for income earned through the date of death.MCL 206.51; MCL 205.232Verified May 31, 2026 If the estate earns income during administration, a federal fiduciary return (Form 1041) and Michigan fiduciary return (MI-1041) may also be required.

The final federal and Michigan income tax returns are due april 15 following year of death.MCL 206.51; MCL 205.232Verified May 31, 2026 The fiduciary return is due april 15 (calendar year); michigan accepts federal form 7004 extension (extends 5½ months, to september 30 for calendar-year filers).

No. No tax clearance required for individual estates. Michigan estate tax inoperative (MCL 205.232). Form 5156 (Request for Tax Clearance Certificate) applies only to business entities, not estates.MCL 206.51; MCL 205.232Verified May 31, 2026 All tax obligations must be satisfied before making final distributions.

Yes. Estate size does not affect the requirement to file a final income tax return. A final Form 1040 is required regardless of estate value if the deceased had income. What smaller estates typically avoid is the federal estate tax return (Form 706).

The executor named in the will (or the court-appointed administrator) is responsible for filing the final income tax return and any estate tax returns. If the deceased was married, the surviving spouse can file a joint federal return for the year of death. For trust assets, the successor trustee handles fiduciary tax returns. The Michigan executor checklist covers all filing responsibilities in order.

No. Michigan does not impose a state estate tax or inheritance tax. The primary tax filings after death are income tax related (final return and, if applicable, estate income tax return). See how Michigan compares with the death tax calculator.

Tax Filing After Death in Michigan

Tax obligations in Michigan include filing the deceased's final state and federal income tax returns. If the estate generates income (interest, dividends, rent) before distribution, a fiduciary return is also required.

Michigan does not impose a state estate tax or inheritance tax. The primary post-death tax obligations are income tax related — the final return and any fiduciary returns needed during estate administration.

Missing tax deadlines can result in penalties and interest that reduce the estate's value. The executor checklist for Michigan includes all filing dates so nothing is overlooked.

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Michigan Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering Michigan probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.

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Michigan Tax Filing Checklist

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Federal

File final income tax return26 USC 6012(b)(1)

A final federal income tax return is required for income earned from January 1 through the date of death.

Form: IRS Form 1040

Deadline: April 15 following year of death

Write "DECEASED" across the top. If filing jointly with surviving spouse, include both incomes. Attach Form 1310 if claiming a refund.
Download FormFile Online

File estate income tax returnNot required26 USC 6012(a)(4)

IRS Form 1041 is only required if the estate earns $600 in gross income or more during administration.

File estate tax returnNot required26 USC 6018; 26 USC 6075(a)

The estate value ($0) is below the federal exemption of $15,000,000. IRS Form 706 is generally not required.

Michigan

File final income tax returnMCL 206.51; MCL 205.232Verified May 31, 2026

A final state return is required for income earned through the date of death.

Form: MI-1040

Deadline: April 15 following year of death

Write "Deceased" and date of death (MM-DD-YYYY) after decedent name. File Form MI-1310 (Claim for Refund Due a Deceased Taxpayer) if non-spouse claims refund. Attach death certificate or Letters of Authority. MCL 206.51.
Download FormFile Online

File estate income tax returnNot requiredMCL 206.51; MCL 205.232Verified May 31, 2026

A fiduciary return is only required if the estate earns income above the filing threshold (Required if federal Form 1041 was filed or estate has MI income not taxable on federal 1041. Informational MI-1041 required whenever federal 1041 filed.).

Tax Clearance Not RequiredMCL 206.51; MCL 205.232Verified May 31, 2026

No tax clearance required for individual estates. Michigan estate tax inoperative (MCL 205.232). Form 5156 (Request for Tax Clearance Certificate) applies only to business entities, not estates.

This tool provides general information about tax filing requirements after death. Tax situations vary based on individual circumstances. Consult a licensed tax professional or CPA for advice specific to your situation.

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