Watercraft Tax Inquires coming from State of MI

Boat owners around the state have been receiving Letters of Inquiry Concerning Michigan Taxes.  These letters are stating that the owners owe additional tax for the purchase of their vessel.  The head of the Discovery and Tax Enforcement Division in the Treasury Department has verified that these letters are not a scam and are legitimate tax bills.  The explanation given is that there has been a breakdown in communication between the Michigan Treasury Department and the Secretary of State Office on what taxes have been paid on marine vessels. The Treasury Department has become aware of this issue, however, not before sending out several hundred letters.

This can be corrected with an email containing a copy of the sales order to the address on the letter (vanderslikw2@michigan.gov).  It is recommended to highlight the Hull ID number and the tax dollar amount paid.  In the Subject line put the reference number on their letter.  Once the sales order has been reviewed, the customer will receive a confirmation email stating their case has been closed.

Click here for a copy of a sample letter.