Congressman Tom Barrett announced on Apr. 15 that Michigan families are seeing larger tax refunds this year due to the Working Family Tax Cuts passed last year. Barrett released a video statement marking the federal income tax filing deadline, where he discussed several provisions of the new law aimed at providing relief to working families.
The announcement is significant for many residents who may be concerned about their financial situation and the impact of federal taxes. The changes aim to ease the burden on workers, parents, and seniors by increasing deductions and credits.
“Hi everyone, Congressman Tom Barrett here with a quick reminder that today, of course, is Tax Day. This is a day that none of us typically look forward to — but this year is different thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts,” Barrett said in his video remarks.
He added: “If you’ve already filed your taxes this year, you’ve probably noticed some big changes. Across the United States, the average tax refund is up 11% — about $300 more than it was last year. That’s because we prevented the largest tax hike on the working class in American history.” Barrett also highlighted that “We preserved the doubled standard deduction for every tax filer. We permanently increased the Child Tax Credit for every child in America while also boosting the Adoption Tax Credit. We eliminated tax on tips and overtime and now almost 90% of seniors will pay NO taxes on their Social Security. This is real relief for people across Michigan. Today, a family of four who makes $73,000 a year will pay no federal income taxes.” He encouraged taxpayers to take advantage of these benefits: “The Working Families Tax Cuts are working hard to make sure that you keep more of your own money… Make sure you take advantage of this relief for you and your family — you deserve it.”
According to background information provided by Barrett’s office, Congress passed these measures last summer and President Donald Trump signed them into law. The legislation made permanent several features from earlier reforms including doubling the standard deduction ($15,750 for individuals or $31,500 per couple), raising the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 per child permanently, exempting up to $25,000 in tipped income from taxation as well as up to $12,500 in overtime premium pay from being taxed.
Other provisions include allowing Americans with auto loans on U.S.-made vehicles to deduct up to $10,000 in interest payments and permitting taxpayers aged 65 or older an additional $6,000 deduction—resulting in most seniors owing no federal income tax on their Social Security benefits.
Barrett concluded his message by reiterating his support for policies intended “to make sure that you keep more of your own money,” emphasizing continued efforts toward economic relief.
