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 Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE).

2025 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 Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE). Residents who are approved for HOPE are also possibly eligible for Pay as You Stay (PAYS), which reduces delinquent property taxes owed to the Genesee County Treasurer. Once you are approved for HOPE, you will need to contact the Genesee County Treasurer at 810-257-3054 to set up a payment plan.  

 Residents seeking HOPE application assistance can come to the Assessment Office and we will gladly help with the application process. You can also contact us at 810-766-7255 or [email protected]

 

What is a HOPE?

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.

2025 Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE)

Formerly: Homeowners Property Tax Assistance Program (HPTAP)

Income Guidelines

Income limits are based on the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Family Unit Federal Poverty Guidelines (2024) Adjusted Annual Household Income — Cannot Exceed
Family unit of 1 member $15,060 $30,120
Family unit of 2 members $20,440 $40,880
Family unit of 3 members $25,820 $51,640
Family unit of 4 members $31,200 $62,400
Family unit of 5 members $36,580 $73,160
Family unit of 6 members $41,960 $83,920
Family unit of 7 members $47,340 $94,680
Family unit of 8 members $52,720 $105,440
Each additional member + $5,380 + $10,760

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 Form 5739 (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.
  • 2024 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 5, 2025.

  • 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 March Board of Review (BOR), you will receive a lowered tax bill for that 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.