LANSING – The Michigan House of Representatives today passed a plan introduced by House Majority Floor Leader Kathy Angerer (D-Dundee) to make it easier for seniors and other residents on fixed incomes, such as veterans or people with disabilities, to qualify for a winter property-tax deferral.
"Michigan's winter property tax deferral option is a useful tool for our seniors and residents on fixed incomes," Angerer said. "Unfortunately, it is often a challenge for residents to obtain their W-2s and complete their tax returns in time to be eligible for the deferral. By making a simple change in the law we can make qualifying for a winter tax deferral easier for everyone."
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 their 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 will 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, as well as proof that they still reside at the same address. The deadline for submission also will be deferred until April 30.
"Especially with the challenges facing our state, we need to do all we can to support our residents," Angerer said. "This plan will help more residents take advantage of Michigan's deferral option so that they can better afford to pay their property taxes after they receive their federal and state refund checks. I am very pleased that my colleagues in the House were able to come together and pass this plan for our residents."