LANSING – The House Tax Policy Committee today approved a plan sponsored by State Representative Kathy Angerer (D-Dundee) to make it easier for seniors and other residents on fixed incomes to qualify for a winter property-tax deferral. The plan will next be considered by the full House.
"Residents living on fixed incomes are struggling to make ends meet during these difficult economic times," Angerer said. "We must support our neighbors, grandparents and disabled veterans across the state as we work to get Michigan's economy back on track. My plan makes it easier for taxpayers to take full advantage of the state's property-tax deferral option that is already on the books."
Under the state's current property tax rules, a county board of commissioners can grant senior citizens and others living on fixed incomes, such as disabled veterans and people with disabilities, a deferral of their winter property taxes. To be eligible, a taxpayer must complete tax returns by February 15. Given that many of the required documents are not issued until late January, taxpayers often have little time to gather all of the necessary paperwork and make an appointment with a tax preparer.
Angerer's plan, House Bill 4257, would allow eligible taxpayers to present a copy of their previous year's Homestead Property Tax claim, rather than requiring the current tax year's document. Taxpayers would also have to show proof that they still reside at the same address. The deadline for submission would continue to be February 15.
Angerer noted that this issue was first brought to her attention by 83-year-old Lambertville resident Ronald Whitnah.
"Residents sent me to Lansing to fight on behalf of everyone in our community," Angerer said. "The genesis of this legislation shows, once again, how concerned citizens strengthen our community. By bringing this issue to my attention, Ronald Whitnah is doing his part to make Michigan an even better place to live, work and raise a family."