Poverty Exemption

The Board of Review may grant a hardship exemption to a taxpayer who qualifies and files an application. These applications can be considered at the March, July or December boards of review.

Poverty Exemption Application

Policy for Applicants Requesting Consideration for a Poverty Exemption

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ!

  1. All applicants of homesteaded property must annually obtain and submit a complete and accurate Poverty Exemption Application.  The application and all requested documents must be given or statements made to the City Assessor's Office.  Once the application is complete and you have obtained the supporting documents, please call the office at (810) 227-9006 and make an appointment to come in and go over your application.  This appointment should take only about 30 minutes.  Handicapped or infirmed applicants may call the Assessor's Office to make necessary arrangements for a home visit.
  2. All applicants must own and occupy for which the exemption is requested.  A poverty exemption may not be granted to property owned by a corporation.
    1. Must provide a Michigan valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of identification.
    2. Must produce a deed, land contract, or other evidence of ownership upon request.
    3. Applicants must not sign until application is returned.  The office staff at City Hall must notarize application.
  3. All applicants must submit most recent copies of the following for all those with ownership interest in the home and any persons residing in the home even if they have no ownership interest:.
    1. Signed Federal Income Tax Return – 1040 or 1040A, State of Michigan Income tax Return, and Homesteaded Property Claim – MI-1040CR for all persons residing in the principal residence or file an affidavit for all persons residing in the residence who were not required to file federal or state income tax returns for the current or preceding tax year, show proof of ownership, and meet federal or state income standards annually determined by the U.S.  and meet federal poverty income standards annually determined by the U.S.
    2. All Statements of Income (W-2’s, 1099’s).
    3. Provide information and documents pertaining to federal non-cash benefit programs including but not limited to:  Medicare, Medicaid, Food Stamps, School lunches, college or university scholarships, grants, fellowships, and assistantships.
    4. Provide any and all documentation supporting your income and expense’s to support the information supplied on the application.  This is not inclusive and the Board of Review may request additional information or documentation.
  4. All applications may be filed with this office beginning February 1st, An exemption may be granted for the current year only, and may only be considered by the Board of Review.  The Board of Review meets three times per year, each March, July and December.
  5. Applications may be reviewed by the Board of Review without applicant being present. However, the Board may request that any or all applicants be physically present to respond to any questions they may have. This means that you could be called to appear on short notice.
  6. You may have to answer questions regarding your financial affairs, health, the status of people living in your home, etc. before the Board of Review, at a meeting which is open to and may be attended by the public.
userway