Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE)

If you cannot pay your taxes for financial reasons, you may be able to reduce the current year’s property tax obligation with the Homeowner Property Exemption (HOPE).  Residents seeking HOPE application assistance can reach out to

                                                                                             Genesee County Treasurer                                                            Legal Services of Eastern Michigan

                                                                                             Robin Teeples at 810-257-3481,                                                   Giovanni Ireland at 810-377-6353

                                                                                             or email at [email protected].                                 or email [email protected]

Thanks to Rocket Community Fund

HOPE (Homeowners Property Exemption) is also referred to as the Poverty Tax Exemption (PTE) or Hardship Program. HOPE provides an opportunity for homeowners to receive a reduction for their current-year property taxes based on household income. If approved, you will still be responsible for any special assessments such as garbage pickup and streetlights. The HOPE application is an annual application; homeowners must apply every year.

Do I qualify?

Eligibility for HOPE is based on whether you own and occupy your home as your primary residence and your household income or circumstances. Please review the income levels listed below. Most homeowners whose income is below the guidelines are generally approved.

Only the Board of Review may approve an application.

2026 Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE)

Income Guidelines

In addition, total household assets (e.g., other real property, boats, campers, stocks, bonds, IRAs, and other assets in or out of the United States) must not exceed $15,000. Verification of additional assets will be done for all parties and household members applying for property tax assistance. Information not provided by the applicant but discovered by the Board of Review may cause your application to be denied.

What do I need to provide?

To be considered for an exemption on your property taxes, submit the following to the Board of Review:

• A completed Michigan Department of Treasury Form 5737 (Application for MCL 211.7u Poverty Exemption and Affirmation of Ownership and Occupancy).
• Registered proof of ownership, if not already shown as the owner of the property (Deed, land contract, probate court order, divorce judgment, etc.).
• Any form of government ID with address and photo for the homeowner and all residents over the age of 18.
• Proof of income for all household members (including minor children). Examples: W-2s, pay stubs, SSI/SSD, pension, FIA/DHS, child support, self-employment records, or a signed and notarized letter from the person assisting you financially.
• 2025 Federal and State tax returns for all adults, if filed. If you are not required to file a tax return, the adult must complete Michigan Treasury Form 4988 (Poverty Exemption Affidavit) and IRS 4506-T, and provide W-2s, Social Security statements, or other documents that prove last year’s income.

What is the deadline?

• The Board of Review reserves the right to request additional information or documents.

Deadline: 4:00 p.m., December 11, 2026.

• File early to ensure the Board of Review has time to review your case.
• You must reapply each year.
• If you are granted an exemption at the July or December BOR, you will receive a full property tax bill in July; an adjusted bill will be mailed after the July or December BOR. If you already paid and are then granted an exemption, you will be mailed a refund for the excess payment.
• If you are not granted an exemption, your decision letter will explain the reason and include the process and timeline for appeal.