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Outline

The Michigan 1028 form, known as the Annual Property Report, serves a crucial role in the state's property tax assessment process for railroads. This mandatory report is issued under Michigan Public Act 282 of 1905 and must be filed annually by companies with gross receipts over $1,000,000 by March 31, while those with lower receipts have a deadline of March 15. Failure to submit a complete report by the due date incurs a daily fine of $500. The form requires essential company information, including the name, Federal Tax ID number, and contact details for an authorized representative. It also mandates a certification statement from a company officer, confirming the accuracy of the reported information. The report includes several schedules, such as a statement of the total cost of rolling stock, investment in road property, and various financial metrics related to railway operations. Additionally, companies must disclose any changes in ownership or property status during the previous year. Accurate completion of this form is vital for compliance with state tax regulations and impacts the assessment of property taxes for the railroad industry in Michigan.

Sample - Michigan 1028 Form

1028 (Rev. 11-11)

State of Michigan

State Tax Commission

ANNUAL PROPERTY REPORT

For Year Ended December 31, 2011

State Assessed Railroads

This report is issued under Michigan Public Act 282 of 1905, as amended. Filing of this report is mandatory. There can be only one authorized contact person for each company. Companies with annual gross receipts greater than $1,000,000 are required to file this report on or before March 31. Companies with annual gross receipts equal to or less than $1,000,000 are required to file this report on or before March 15. A company failing to file a complete report by the applicable due date shall be subject to a fine of $500 per day.

Instructions for completion and filing options are available on pages 9-12 of this report.

Company Name

 

 

Federal Tax ID Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company Address to which the tax bill should be sent

City

State

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

Company Authorized Contact Person (to whom correspondence concerning this report should be addressed)

Company Web site

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Address

 

City

State

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Telephone Number

Contact Fax Number

 

Contact E-mail Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notary

Printed name of President, Secretary, Superintendent or Chief Officer under whose direction this report was prepared.

By my signature below, I certify that the information (including any attachments) in this report is complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Signature ________________________________________________Title __________________________________Date _________________________

Subscribed and sworn to before me this ____________________________ day of _____________________________________, _______________.

Signature of Notary Public

My Commission Expires

Printed Name of Notary Public

Acting in the County of

Has your company experienced any name changes, acquisitions, or sales during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report.

YES

If yes, provide the following information:

NO

Description of Change (merger, acquisition, sale)

Date of Change

Under what name did the taxpayer file last year?

Name of Company Sold

1

Schedule 1, Statement of Total Cost of Rolling Stock Owned or Leased by Year of Acquisition (Includes Locomotives, Freight Cars, Passenger Cars, Highway and Work Equipment)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRUE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH

 

No. of

COSTS

 

 

 

REPORTABLE

 

VALUE

YEAR OF

Units

REPORTED

LOSSES

ADDITIONS

 

COSTS

 

(office

ACQUISITION

Reported

PRIOR

(office use

(office use

NO. OF

CURRENT

 

use

 

Prior Year

YEAR

only)

only)

UNITS

YEAR

MULTIPLIER

only)

 

 

(office use)

 

 

 

 

 

 

2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.8900

 

2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.7600

 

2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.6700

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.6000

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.5400

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.4900

 

2005

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.4500

 

2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.4200

 

2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.3800

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.3600

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.3300

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.3100

 

1999

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.2900

 

1998

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.2800

 

Prior

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.2300

 

TOTALS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Schedule 1 Total True Cash Value

Schedule 2, Investment in Road Property Used in Transportation Service with Additions and Retirements for the Year (Michigan Only)

Column A

Column B

Column C

Column D

Column E

Column F

Column G

Column H

Previous

Original Cost

Accumulated

Expenditures for

Depreciation

Plant Balance

Accumulated

Net Book Value

Year

of

Depreciation of

Additions During

of New Additions

at Year End

Depreciation

= F - G

Plant Balance

Retirements

Retirements at

the Calendar

During the

= A - B + D

at Year End

 

from last

Made During

Beginning of

Year

Calendar Year

 

 

 

Year’s

Calendar

Calendar Year

 

 

 

 

 

Column F

Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If your prior year plant ending balance is not equivalent to the amount in Column A that was carried forward from last year’s report, please indicate the revised amount and provide an explanation.

Revised Column A: _________

Explanation:

_______

_

_

 

 

 

plus

Construction in Progress (CIP)

x .50 = Adjusted CIP

 

_________

 

 

(incurred cost to date)

equals

_________

Schedule 2 True Cash Value

_________

Note: Inventory is exempt from assessment. Inventory does not include personal property under lease or principally intended for lease or rental (operating), rather than sale. Property allowed a cost recovery allowance or depreciation under the Internal Revenue Code is not inventory. Motor vehicles registered with the Michigan Secretary of State on Tax Day (December 31st) are exempt. Non-registered motor vehicles and equipment attached to motor vehicles which is not used while the vehicle travels on the highway are assessable. Computer software, if the purchase was evidenced by a separate invoice amount and if the software is commonly sold separately, is exempt.

2

Schedule 3

A. Interest Paid on Debt From Railway Operations (National)

 

Last Four Year Results as Previously Reported

 

 

Balance at Close of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Calendar Year

 

 

Five Year Average

 

 

 

 

(office use only)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(December 31st)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(office use only)

 

 

year - 4

 

year - 3

year - 2

year - 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-0-

 

-0-

-0-

-0-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B. Total Net Operating from Railway Operations (National)

Last Four Year Results as Previously Reported

(office use only)

year - 4

year - 3

year - 2

year - 1

 

 

 

 

Balance at Close of

Calendar Year

(December 31st)

Five Year Average

(office use only)

Schedule 4, Statement of Allocation Factors

Note: "National" includes all North American Activity (U.S., Canada, and Mexico), "Michigan" only includes those items attributable to the State of Michigan.

 

Ar e y ou r op e r a t ion s e n t ir e ly w it h in t h e St a t e of M ich ig a n ?

 

 

 

Yes

_ _ _

 

No

_ _ _

 

 

 

 

 

I f Yes, y ou do not need t o pr ov ide t he follow ing in for m at ion .

 

 

 

I f No, please pr ov ide t he follow in g in for m at ion below ( Car Miles an d Rev en u es) .

 

 

Car Miles

 

 

 

 

National

Michigan

 

1.

Freight Car Miles (Loaded and Empty)

 

 

 

 

2.

All Other Car Miles

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Total Car Miles (1+2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

Percentage Attributable to Michigan

 

 

 

 

Revenues (please enter full dollar amounts)

National

Michigan

 

1.

Freight Revenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

All Other Revenue from Operation

 

 

 

 

3.

Total Operating Revenue (1+2)

 

 

 

 

4.

Percentage Attributable to Michigan

 

 

 

Schedule 5, Sales and Transfers of Car Marks

Did any sales or transfers of car marks occur during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report?

Yes

____

No

____

If Yes, describe any sales or transfers that occurred.

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

3

Schedule 6, Statement of Railcar Mileage Traveled Over Track Operated by your Company (itemize by Car Mark)

Car Mark

Mileage

Car Mark

Mileage

Car Mark

Mileage

Schedule 7, Real Property

Have there been any changes (additions or losses) to your Real Property in the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory filing date of this report?

Yes ____

No ____

If yes, please describe losses and/or additions in box below:

4

NOTE

All summary calculations will be completed AFTER the Assessment and Certification Division has reviewed and processed the information contained in this Annual Property Report. Once all processing is complete, you may view the summary calculations (worksheets) by requesting a personal identification number (PIN) and accessing your company's secure, online account. For additional information on how to request a PIN to access your account, please refer to the "How to file this report" section of the instructions.

Tentative values will be posted on or about May 15, and final values will be posted on or about June 15. Each state assessed company will receive a final tax bill by mail and any taxes due are payable on July 1.

5

2012

Application for Tax Credit for Maintenance and Improvement of Rights of Way

Section 13 of PA 282 of 1905, as amended allows credit for eligible expenses incurred in the State of Michigan by railroad companies for maintenance or improvement of rights of way, including those items, except depreciation, in the official maintenance-of-way and capital track accounts of the railroad company in this state during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report, but not to exceed the total liability for the tax under this act.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to be eligible for the tax credit for maintenance and improvement of rights of way under MCL 207.13(2), the railroad companies must fulfill the statutory requirements detailed in Section 13 of PA 282 of 1905 (MCL 207.13(3)). In addition to providing the requested summary information on this application for credit, each company must complete and file [3 copies of] the report described in Section 13 with the State Tax Commission that includes, but is not limited to, detailed information of the nature and location of expenses. A summary of the eligibility and reporting requirements are listed in the attached instructions on pages 11-13.

Eligible and Non-Eligible Expenses

Examples of Eligible and Non-Eligible Expenses are listed in the attached instructions on pages 11-13.

Maximum Credit Available

The maintenance of way expense credits are not refundable or deferrable. Expenses in excess of a company's property tax liability are not eligible for credit against prior or subsequent years' liability.

***NOTE*** Filing of this credit application does not relieve the company of the statutory requirement of filing [3 copies] of the detailed expense report described in Section 13(3). You are still required to provide that to the State Tax Commission at the following address:

 

 

Mailing Address:

For Overnight Package Delivery:

Michigan Department of Treasury

Michigan Department of Treasury

Michigan State Tax Commission

Michigan State Tax Commission

P O Box 30471

Austin Building

Lansing, MI 48909-7971

430 W. Allegan Street

 

Lansing, MI 48922

 

 

Company Name

Eligibilty

Has your company incurred eligible expenses, and submitted three (3) copies of the required expense report as described above?

Yes ___

No ___

If Yes, please enter total eligible expenses below.

If No, you are NOT ELIGIBLE for credit. DO NOT SUBMIT EXPENSES.

Total Eligible Expenses for Maintenance and Improvement of Rights of Way in Michigan which you have reported in the above described report.

$

___________________________

6

2012

Application for Tax Credit for Maintenance and Improvement

of Qualified Rolling Stock in Michigan

Section 13a of Public Act 282 of 1905, as amended, allows a credit for eligible expenses incurred in the State of Michigan by railroad and car companies for maintenance or improvement of eligible companies' qualified rolling stock.

Eligible Company is defined as:

Railroad companies, union station and depot companies, sleeping car companies, express companies, car loaning companies, stock car companies, refrigerator car companies, fast freight line companies, and all other companies owning, leasing, running, or operating any freight, stock, refrigerator, or any other cars not the exclusive property of a railroad company paying taxes upon its rolling stock under this act, over or upon the line or lines of any railroad in this state.

Eligible Expenses are expenses for repairs and maintenance that satisfy all of the following criteria:

1.Eligible expenses must have been incurred during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report.

2.Eligible expenses must have been incurred in the State of Michigan.

3.Eligible expenses must be made for the maintenance or improvement of rolling stock which are subject to taxation by the State under PA 282 of 1905 as amended.

Examples of Eligible and Non-Eligible Expenses are listed in the attached instructions.

Maximum Credit Available:

This credit is not refundable or deferrable. Expenses in excess of a company's property tax liability are not eligible for credit against prior or subsequent years' liability.

Company Name

Eligibility

Are you an "eligible company" which has incurred expenses that satisfy ALL of the requirements listed above?

Yes ___

No ___

If Yes, please enter total eligible expenses below.

If No, you are NOT ELIGIBLE for credit. DO NOT SUBMIT EXPENSES.

Total Eligible Expenses for Maintenance and Improvement of Qualified Rolling Stock in Michigan (include labor, material, overhead, and payments to others for work done).

$

7

Instructions for Completion of the Annual Report by State Assessed Railroads

Who must file this report? (MCL 207.6)

All railroad companies, union station and depot companies, and switching and terminal companies operating in the State of Michigan pursuant to Section 6 of PA 282 of 1905.

When is this report due? (MCL 207.6)

If your annual gross receipts exceed $1,000,000, this report is due by March 31st.

If your annual gross receipts do not exceed $1,000,000, this report is due by March 15th.

How to submit this report:

This report may be submitted electronically or mailed in paper format. If you wish to submit this form electronically, please visit the following web site at www.michigan.gov/stateassessedproperty or you may call (517) 241-4338 for more information on how to file electronically. Any company which desires to take advantage of the new online process, will be able to request an individual secure Personal Identification Number (PIN) by filling out Treasury form 4435. Once the Personal Identification Number (PIN) is issued, the company can use that PIN to access the site for submitting their Annual Property Report and any applicable credit applications online. The company can also use the PIN to view calculation worksheets and tax notices, once all the processing is complete. The secure PIN protects the account, and restricts access so that only the person which the company authorizes can access or view the information submitted to the state.

If submitting this form by mail, please complete and sign the declaration on page one and send the entire completed form to:

Mailing Address:

For Overnight Package Delivery:

Michigan Department of Treasury

Michigan Department of Treasury

Michigan State Tax Commission

Michigan State Tax Commission

P O Box 30471

Austin Building

Lansing, MI 48909-7971

430 W. Allegan Street

 

Lansing, MI 48922

What property is subject to taxation? (MCL 207.5)

The term "property having a situs in this state", includes all property, real and personal, of the persons, corporations, companies, co-partnerships and associations enumerated in the act, which is owned, used and occupied by them within the limits of this state, and also such proportion of their rolling stock, cars, and other property as is used partly within and partly without this state as provided by PA 282 of 1905.

Schedule 1

List all rolling stock which is owned or leased by you. List the number of units reported as well as reportable current year costs. Property must be listed at its full original cost new, in the year that it was new. If the original/new acquisition cost of a railcar that was initially purchased by another company can be obtained, that information must be reported. If the original/new acquisition cost of a railcar that was initially purchased by another company cannot be obtained, then the original/new acquisition cost shall be equal to the subsequent price paid by the reporting company upon acquiring the used railcar. All betterments, including capital improvements, mandated betterments, capital upgrades, safety features, and mandated repairs should be reported in the year the expenditure is booked as a fixed asset.

The "Costs Reported Prior Year", "Losses", "Additions", and "True Cash Value" columns are for Assessment and Certification Division (ACD) use only. To view the values and calculations entered by the Assessment and Certification Division, please fill out form 4435 to obtain a Personal Identification Number (PIN) for access to the online reporting form available at www.michigan.gov/taxes (please see "How to submit this report" section above for specific website location). Tentative Values will be electronically posted on or about May 15th, and Final Values will be electronically posted on or about June 15th.

Schedule 2

This is to be submitted by all railroads and calls for summary data relating to investment for the company(s) properties in Michigan. Investment in account 732 (improvements on leased property) shall also be reported on Schedule 2. The "Previous Year Plant Balance" column is for Assessment and Certification Division office use only. List any retirements that have occurred during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report. List the accumulated depreciation for those retirements in the column designated.

8

List any expenditures for additions that occurred during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report. Exclude locally-assessed property, erosion control property, and property funded by the Michigan Department of Transportation. List the accumulated first year depreciation for those additions in the column designated. Inventory is exempt from assessment. Inventory does not include personal property under lease or principally intended for lease or rental, rather than sale. Property allowed a cost recovery allowance or depreciation under the Internal Revenue Code is not inventory. Non-registered motor vehicles and equipment attached to motor vehicles which is not used while the vehicle travels on the highway are assessable. Computer software, if the purchase was evidenced by a separate invoice amount and if the software is commonly sold separately, is exempt.

In the Accumulated Depreciation column, list the accumulated depreciation for assets in place at year end.

List the balance of costs at calendar year end (December 31st). The "True Cash Value" column is for Assessment and Certification division office use only.

List the current year construction in progress. Report all costs that have been incurred including overheads, installation costs incurred, sales tax and freight. Reporting of costs should be separated by project. Property which is placed in service on or before December 31st is considered placed in service that year and should be entirely reported on the line which represents the year that it was considered placed in service. Similarly, the cost of all assets must be reported as acquired in the year that they were placed in service, rather than the year of purchase, if those years differ. The adjusted construction in progress and the Schedule 2 True Cash Value will be calculated by the Assessment and Certification Division.

Schedule 3

A.Enter the Total Interest Paid to service debt to finance railway operations. Interest must be for short term and long term debt. The columns provide for the amounts from the last four years. The phase-in of the interest in the valuation calculation based on the income approach, began with the 2011 tax year.

B.Enter the Total Net Operating Income from Railway Operations. The columns provide for the amounts reported from the last four years.

Schedule 4

If your company's property (whether owned or leased) is used entirely within the State of Michigan, you are not required to provide allocation information. If your company's property (whether owned or leased) is used partly within and partly without the State of Michigan, provide the allocation information based on the system as a whole, and the portion attributable to Michigan. For further details on reporting specifications, consult the Uniform System of Accounts for Railroad Companies. (49 CFR 1201 et.seq.)

Schedule 5

Please check the appropriate box indicating whether any sales or transfers of car marks have occurred in the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report. If you select yes, please describe any sales and transfers of car marks that occurred.

Schedule 6

Enter the total annual mileage traveled during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report, over track that you operate (whether owned or leased). Please provide the mileage by individual car mark.

Schedule 7

Indicate whether there have been any changes to your real property as compared to the prior year’s information and provide information about any changes in the reporting box.

Losses to Real Property

Losses mean the decrease in value which has not been reflected in the assessment unit’s immediately preceding year’s assessment roll. Losses include removal or destruction of real property, newly exempt property, or newly contaminated property.

Additions to Real Property

Additions mean an increase in value which has not been reflected on the assessment unit’s immediately preceding year’s assessment roll. Additions include omitted property, new or replacement construction, and increases in value due to new public services and/or contamination remediation.

9

Instructions for Tax Credit for Maintenance and Improvement of Right of Way

Sec. 13 of PA 282 of 1905, as amended, (more specifically MCL 207.13(2) and MCL 207.13a(5)(b)(ii)), allows credit against the tax imposed, for eligible expenses incurred in the State of Michigan by railroad companies for maintenance or improvement of rights of way, including those items, except depreciation, in the official maintenance-of-way and capital track accounts of the railroad company in this state during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report, but not to exceed the total liability for the tax under this act.

Additional Statutory Requirements for Eligibility (MCL 207.13(2) - (5))

In order to be eligible for the tax credit for maintenance and improvement of rights of way, the railroad companies must complete and file [3 COPIES OF] an annual report with the State Tax Commission that includes the following:

1.Detailed data of right of way work conducted in this state during the past calendar year separated by costs of labor and materials on each project and itemized in the following categories:

(a)Miles of track laid

(b)Tons of new ballast installed

(c)Number of ties installed

(d)Miles of track surfaced

(e)Signals installed

(f)Under drainage work done

2.The number of notices of violation from the railway inspectors by railroad section,

3.A detailed account of the location and nature of the work defined by railroad section or mile posts surrounding the work area plus the county, city, or township in which the work was performed,

4. Demonstration that the highest priority of expenditures for the maintenance and improvement of rights of way has been given to rail lines that handle hazardous materials, especially those that are located in urban or residential areas, and detailed data on the tonnages of hazardous materials handled in relation to tonnages of other traffic handled over the rail line for which a tax credit is being applied.

In addition, the company must grant to another railroad company, upon application by the latter, trackage rights over its line for trains, providing that the train operations do not interfere with the movement of Michigan freight using the same trackage, if operations can be accomplished safely in the opinion of the grantor and if trackage arrangements and train operations are approved by the interstate commerce commission.

***NOTE*** Filing of the credit application does not relieve you of the requirement of filing 3 copies of the above defined report with the State Tax Commission. You are still required to provide the above information in a separate report.

What expenses are eligible for credit against the tax levied? MCL 207.13(2)

Eligible Expenses:

1.Eligible expenses must have been incurred during the calendar year immediately preceding the statutory due date of this report.

2.Eligible expenses must have been incurred in the State of Michigan.

3.Examples of Eligible Capital Expenses for Road and Equipment include, but are not limited to items from the following categories:

(1)

Engineering exp. directly related to R & E Property

(23)

Wharves and Docks

(3)

Other Right-of-Way Expenses

(24)

Coal and Ore Wharves

(4)

Grading

(25)

TOFC/COFC Terminals

(5)

Tunnels and Subways

(26)

Communication Systems

(6)

Bridges, trestles, and culverts

(27)

Signals and Interlockers

(7)

Elevated Structures

(37)

Roadway Machines

(8, 9, 10, 11) Ties, Rails and other Track Material

(38)

Roadway small tools

(12) Track Laying and Surfacing

(39)

Public Improvements - Construction

(13) Fences, Snowsheds, and Signs

(43)

Other Expenses - Road

(17) Roadway Buildings (portion housing MOW equipment and engineering)

10

Form Information

Fact Name Description
Governing Law The Michigan 1028 form is issued under Michigan Public Act 282 of 1905, as amended.
Filing Requirement Filing this report is mandatory for companies with annual gross receipts over $1,000,000 by March 31, and for those with receipts of $1,000,000 or less by March 15.
Late Filing Penalty A fine of $500 per day applies for companies that fail to file a complete report by the due date.
Authorized Contact Each company must designate one authorized contact person for correspondence related to this report.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Michigan 1028

Completing the Michigan 1028 form is essential for companies operating within the state. This form needs to be filled out accurately and submitted by the designated deadlines to avoid penalties. Below are the steps to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Begin with the Company Name and enter the official name of your company.
  2. Input the Federal Tax ID Number associated with your company.
  3. Provide the Company Address where tax bills should be sent, including the city, state, and ZIP code.
  4. Identify the Company Authorized Contact Person for correspondence regarding this report.
  5. Fill in the Contact Address details for the authorized person, including city, state, ZIP code, telephone number, fax number, and email address.
  6. Have the Notary section filled out, including the printed name of the President, Secretary, Superintendent, or Chief Officer responsible for the report.
  7. Sign and date the form, certifying the accuracy of the information provided.
  8. If applicable, indicate if there were any name changes, acquisitions, or sales during the previous calendar year and provide details if the answer is yes.
  9. Complete Schedule 1, detailing the total cost of rolling stock owned or leased by year of acquisition.
  10. Fill out Schedule 2, which includes the investment in road property used in transportation service, accounting for additions and retirements during the year.
  11. Provide information for Schedule 3, detailing interest paid on debt from railway operations and total net operating results.
  12. Complete Schedule 4, which requires information on allocation factors for operations within Michigan and nationally.
  13. If applicable, answer the questions in Schedule 5 regarding any sales or transfers of car marks.
  14. Fill out Schedule 6, itemizing railcar mileage traveled over tracks operated by your company.
  15. Complete Schedule 7, detailing any changes to real property during the previous calendar year.
  16. Review all sections to ensure accuracy and completeness before submission.

After completing the form, it must be submitted by the appropriate deadline. Companies with annual gross receipts exceeding $1,000,000 must file by March 31, while those below this threshold must file by March 15. Failure to submit on time may result in daily fines. Keep an eye out for further instructions and updates regarding your submission and any potential tax liabilities.

Obtain Answers on Michigan 1028

  1. What is the Michigan 1028 form?

    The Michigan 1028 form is the Annual Property Report required for state-assessed railroads. It is issued under Michigan Public Act 282 of 1905 and must be completed and filed by companies operating within the state. The report collects essential information regarding a company's property, including rolling stock and real property, for taxation purposes.

  2. Who is required to file the Michigan 1028 form?

    All companies assessed by the state that operate railroads must file the Michigan 1028 form. Specifically, companies with annual gross receipts greater than $1,000,000 must submit the report by March 31, while those with receipts equal to or less than $1,000,000 must file by March 15.

  3. What happens if a company fails to file the report on time?

    If a company does not file a complete report by the applicable due date, it faces a penalty of $500 for each day the report is late. Timely submission is crucial to avoid these fines.

  4. What information is required in the Michigan 1028 form?

    The form requires various details, including:

    • Company name and Federal Tax ID Number
    • Contact information for an authorized person
    • Details of any name changes, acquisitions, or sales
    • Statements of total costs for rolling stock and investment in road property
    • Sales and transfers of car marks
    • Real property changes
  5. Are there exemptions to the property reported on the form?

    Yes, certain items are exempt from assessment. Inventory is exempt, as are motor vehicles registered with the Michigan Secretary of State on Tax Day (December 31). Additionally, computer software purchased separately may also be exempt.

  6. How can companies access their summary calculations after filing?

    Once the Assessment and Certification Division has reviewed the submitted information, companies can request a personal identification number (PIN) to access their secure online account. This allows them to view summary calculations of their report.

  7. When are tentative and final values posted?

    Tentative values are typically posted around May 15, while final values are made available by June 15. Companies will receive a final tax bill by mail, and any taxes due must be paid by July 1.

  8. What should companies do if they experience changes in their operations?

    Companies must report any name changes, acquisitions, or sales during the calendar year preceding the filing date. Detailed descriptions of these changes, including dates and previous names, must be included in the form.

  9. Who must certify the information provided in the report?

    The report must be certified by the President, Secretary, Superintendent, or Chief Officer of the company. Their signature verifies that the information submitted is complete and accurate to the best of their knowledge.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Michigan 1028 form can be a daunting task, and many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to complications. One frequent error is failing to provide the correct Federal Tax ID Number. This number is crucial for identifying the company and ensuring that the report is processed accurately. Without it, the filing may be deemed incomplete, leading to potential fines.

Another mistake involves misreporting the company's gross receipts. Companies with gross receipts greater than $1,000,000 must file by March 31, while those with lesser amounts have a deadline of March 15. Misunderstanding these thresholds can result in late filings, which incur fines of $500 per day. It is essential to double-check the figures to avoid unnecessary penalties.

Many filers overlook the requirement to name a single authorized contact person for the company. This person should be designated clearly on the form. If multiple contacts are listed, it can create confusion and delay the processing of the report.

In addition, failing to address any name changes, acquisitions, or sales that occurred during the previous calendar year can lead to significant issues. If any changes have taken place, they must be clearly documented on the form. Ignoring this requirement can result in discrepancies that complicate the assessment process.

Another common pitfall is neglecting to sign the form or provide the title and date next to the signature. This step is vital, as the certification of accuracy is a legal requirement. Without a proper signature, the report may be considered invalid.

Some individuals mistakenly skip the notary section, which is essential for validating the report. This oversight can render the entire submission ineffective. It is important to ensure that a notary public is present to witness the signing and to provide their details as required.

Additionally, errors in reporting the true cash value of rolling stock and road property can lead to inaccurate assessments. Each entry must be carefully calculated and verified against previous reports to ensure consistency and accuracy.

Another frequent error is failing to provide adequate explanations for any discrepancies or revisions made in the report. If the prior year’s ending balance differs from the current report, a clear explanation must accompany the revised figures. This transparency helps the assessment team understand the changes better.

Lastly, filers often overlook the specifics regarding inventory exemptions. Understanding what qualifies as inventory and what does not is crucial for accurate reporting. Misclassifying items can lead to incorrect assessments and potential fines.

By being aware of these common mistakes, individuals can approach the Michigan 1028 form with greater confidence and accuracy, ensuring compliance and avoiding unnecessary complications.

Documents used along the form

The Michigan 1028 form, known as the Annual Property Report, is a critical document for companies operating railroads in Michigan. It provides essential information regarding the company's property, including its rolling stock and real property. Along with this form, several other documents may be required to ensure compliance with state regulations. Below is a list of these documents, each serving a unique purpose in the reporting process.

  • Schedule 1: Statement of Total Cost of Rolling Stock - This schedule details the total costs associated with rolling stock owned or leased by the company. It includes information on the number of units, their acquisition costs, and any reportable losses or additions, helping to establish the true cash value of the rolling stock.
  • Schedule 2: Investment in Road Property - This document outlines the investment in road property used in transportation services. It tracks original costs, accumulated depreciation, and net book value of additions and retirements, providing a comprehensive view of the company’s road property assets.
  • Schedule 3: Interest and Net Operating Results - This schedule reports on interest paid on debt from railway operations and total net operating results over the past four years. This information is crucial for assessing the financial health of the company's operations.
  • Schedule 4: Statement of Allocation Factors - This document helps determine the allocation of revenues and car miles between national and Michigan operations. It is particularly important for companies that operate across state lines, ensuring accurate reporting of state-specific activities.

These documents, when used in conjunction with the Michigan 1028 form, provide a comprehensive picture of a company's property and financial standing. Proper completion and timely submission of these forms are vital for compliance and to avoid potential penalties. Understanding each document's role can help streamline the reporting process and ensure accuracy in the information provided to the state.

Similar forms

  • Michigan Form 1040: This form is an individual income tax return for residents of Michigan. Similar to the Michigan 1028, it requires detailed financial information and has specific filing deadlines based on income levels. Both forms necessitate accuracy and can incur penalties for late submissions.
  • Michigan Corporate Income Tax (CIT) Form: Businesses operating in Michigan must file this tax form to report their income. Like the Michigan 1028, it involves a mandatory filing requirement and is tied to the company’s financial performance, impacting tax obligations.
  • Form 941: This is the Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return. It shares similarities with the Michigan 1028 in that both require companies to report financial data periodically. Timely submission is critical, as both forms can result in penalties for late filing.
  • IRS Form 1120: This is the U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return. It parallels the Michigan 1028 in that it requires corporations to disclose financial information and pay taxes based on their earnings. Both forms are essential for compliance with tax regulations.
  • Michigan Sales Tax Return (Form STC 301): This form is used by businesses to report sales tax collected. Similar to the Michigan 1028, it requires accurate reporting of financial data and adherence to specific filing deadlines, with penalties for non-compliance.
  • Annual Report for Corporations: This document is required for corporations to maintain good standing in Michigan. It is similar to the Michigan 1028 in that it necessitates the submission of company information and financial data, ensuring transparency and compliance with state regulations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Michigan 1028 form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of dos and don'ts that can help streamline the process.

  • Do ensure that the company name and Federal Tax ID Number are accurately entered.
  • Do file the report by the due date: March 31 for companies with gross receipts over $1,000,000, and March 15 for those with $1,000,000 or less.
  • Do designate a single authorized contact person for all correspondence related to the report.
  • Do include all required signatures, including that of a notary public if necessary.
  • Do provide a complete description of any changes in company structure, such as mergers or acquisitions.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing all entries for completeness and accuracy.
  • Don't ignore the penalties for late filing; fines can accumulate at $500 per day.
  • Don't forget to include any required supporting documentation as indicated in the instructions.
  • Don't assume that previous year's information is still valid; verify all figures and details.
  • Don't overlook the importance of consulting the instructions on pages 9-12 for specific filing options.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Michigan 1028 form is crucial for companies operating in the state. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are six common misconceptions:

  • Filing is optional for all companies. Some believe that filing the Michigan 1028 form is optional. In reality, filing this report is mandatory for all companies that meet the specified gross receipts criteria.
  • Only large companies need to file. While companies with gross receipts over $1,000,000 must file by March 31, those with receipts equal to or less than that amount also have a filing requirement due by March 15.
  • Late filings incur a one-time penalty. Many assume that a late filing incurs a single fine. However, the penalty is $500 per day for every day the report is late, which can accumulate quickly.
  • Only financial data is required. Some individuals think that the report only requires financial figures. In fact, it also requires detailed information about company changes, property, and operations.
  • Notarization is not necessary. There is a belief that notarization of the report is not essential. However, the signature of a notary public is required to validate the information submitted.
  • Inventory is always exempt from assessment. While it is true that inventory is generally exempt, this exemption does not apply to personal property under lease or intended for lease rather than sale.

Being aware of these misconceptions can help ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties. Companies should take the time to understand their obligations under the Michigan 1028 form.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Michigan 1028 form is an important task for companies operating in the state. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Mandatory Filing: Companies must file this report as required by Michigan Public Act 282 of 1905.
  • Due Dates: If your company has annual gross receipts over $1,000,000, the report is due by March 31. For those with receipts of $1,000,000 or less, the deadline is March 15.
  • Contact Person: Only one authorized contact person can be designated for each company regarding this report.
  • Fines for Late Filing: Failing to submit a complete report by the deadline can result in a fine of $500 per day.
  • Completeness of Information: Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete. This includes any attachments.
  • Notary Requirement: The report must be signed by a notary public, certifying the accuracy of the information.
  • Changes in Company Status: If there have been name changes, acquisitions, or sales in the previous year, this must be reported.
  • Exemptions: Be aware of what property is exempt from assessment, such as inventory and certain motor vehicles.
  • Accessing Final Values: After processing, companies can access their summary calculations online using a personal identification number (PIN).

Understanding these points can help ensure a smooth filing process and compliance with state regulations.