Poverty Exemption Guidelines and Affidavit

You may qualify to have the taxes on your home (your principal residence) exempted for 1 year for reasons of poverty.

If you are having, or anticipate having, difficulty paying your property taxes because of income restrictions, or changes in your income status, you may qualify for a Poverty Exemption for 1 year periods.

The State of Michigan allows a local unit of government to grant a Poverty Exemption based on guidelines adopted by City Council. Income levels may not exceed Federal Poverty Guidelines (or levels set above these guidelines, approved by the local government). The value of your residence may not exceed levels adopted by the local government, and there is a required asset level that may not be exceeded, to qualify.

The guidelines adopted by City Council are included in the application attached to the link above. If you meet the guidelines on the form, you may apply for a Poverty Exemption at either the March (1st Monday in March), the July (3rd Monday in July), or the December (2nd Monday in December) Board of Review.

If you have any questions, or need help filling out the application, please contact the Assessing Department.