Q. Do I have to file a Columbus city return?
A. No, but you may want to. See below*. The only time a non resident is required to file a city return is when an improper amount was withheld and that is very rare.
Although MI & OH have a reciprocity agreement on state taxes, that agreement does not apply to city tax. Columbus is allowed to withhold from your pay and you cannot get that refunded.
*But, Michigan will give you credit for that on the state return, but you have to attach a copy of the city return. So, even though the Ohio city does not require you to file a return, you have to file one to get the MI credit, even though there will be no tax due or refunded from the Ohio city.
Columbus forms (you want IR-25) https://www.columbus.gov/IncomeTaxDivision/TaxForms/Individuals/
