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Your Guide to Michigan Movers & Moving to Michigan
Famous for both its abundant waterways and bustling cities, Michigan is a truly exciting place to live – especially if you enjoy boating, long stretches of beach and miles of wooded areas. If you’re moving to Michigan, you’re probably pursuing a great job, a closer connection to your family or an education from one of the state’s respected universities. No matter what you’re looking for, I hope you find it quickly and easily. To help ease your transition, I’ve compiled a Michigan moving guide that should help you arrange your move both before you get on the road and once you arrive.
Finding Michigan Movers
Whether it’s your first move or your fortieth, you’ll want to find movers that are trustworthy, capable and available, and when you’re moving to Michigan, this goal is entirely attainable. The Michigan Movers Association is a group of Michigan moving companies who have pledged to maintain the highest ethical and professional standards when moving your items to (or from) Michigan. Start your search for the right Michigan moving company by calling the Michigan Movers Association and asking for references of movers located in your area. You should also take a look at the group’s bylaws, so you will know what service to expect (or demand) from your Michigan movers. Don’t hesitate to double-check your references with the state’s Better Business Bureau and to call personal references for each Michigan moving company that you’re interested. It may take a bit of research, but finding the best Michigan mover will ensure that the first part of your move goes as smoothly as possible.
Driving Regulations and Licensing
You are required to transfer your out-of-state license to a Michigan license as quickly as possible after moving to Michigan. This can be done at any Michigan DMV. You may need to take a practical exam or a written exam to confirm your driving skills before receiving your Michigan license. You will definitely need to present proof of your Social Security number, citizenship and identity. Upon passing an eye exam and presentation of all required documents you will be issued a new Michigan license that will be valid for four years.
If you plan to travel to Canada regularly you can also request an ‘enhanced’ driver’s license that can be used as both a driving permit and border-crossing identification.
Michigan Tax Rates
Michigan has a flat income tax rate of 4.35% for all income levels, though some counties may impose further personal income taxes. Sales tax in Michigan is a flat rate of 6% on all taxable goods and services, which is comparable to the sales tax in states such as Pennsylvania and Vermont. Property tax in Michigan varies by county and is based on assessment of the property value. If you believe that you are overpaying on your Michigan property tax you can launch a claim with the Michigan Tax Tribunal which hears cases of this nature.
Marriage Rules and Regulations
Although you don’t need to move to Michigan in order to get married there, Michigan is one of the few states that charges non-residents $10 more to receive a marriage license. Only one member of the couple needs to apply for the marriage license in person in Michigan. Neither same-sex marriages nor cousin marriages are permitted in Michigan. Michigan does have the unique opportunity for ‘secret’ marriage, in which the file is sealed after the ceremony so that it is recognized by the state but does not become public knowledge.
When moving to Michigan, the most important thing to remember is to keep your eye on the final goal instead of getting bogged down by the small details. Although choosing the right Michigan mover and registering your vehicle on time are important, being overly worried about the procedures will hinder the success of your move. Make sure to remain optimistic, excited and focused and all of the pieces should fall right into place.