MI $400 Auto Refund Checks Hits Deadline, $800M Still Owed To Drivers

MICHIGAN — Monday was the last day auto insurance companies had to mail out the $400 refund check to eligible policyholders. However, state officials announced $800 million was still owned to Michigan drivers.

The Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association promised it would refund $3 billion to eligible drivers after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called on the agency to issue the refunds to drivers who had insured their vehicles by Oct. 31, 2021. Motorcycles and RV's were also eligible for a refund check.

"These refunds will help families pay the bills and put food on the table as we keep growing our economy, creating more good-paying jobs, and lowering costs," Whitmer said.

The insurance association was given three months to distribute the funds. But roughly a quarter of Michigan's eligible drivers still haven't received their check yet, despite a news release from state officials saying $1.2 billion had been sent out from insurance companies to drivers in just the past few weeks.

State officials encouraged anyone who has not received their $400 refund check should contact their insurance company and reach out to the Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Officials also reiterated eligible drivers to be persistent and follow up.

"If you are eligible for a refund and do not receive it by May 9, be sure to contact your insurance company to ensure it has been issued," said Director Anita Fox. "If you cannot reach a resolution with your insurance company, or if your insurer offers your refund through something other than a paper check or ACH deposit, call DIFS at 833-ASK-DIFS."