How to apply for Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit

Who it's for

The Homestead Property Tax Credit refunds part of the property tax (or rent) Michigan homeowners and renters pay, with more generous treatment for seniors age 65+. For the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026) you may claim it if your total household resources are $71,500 or less and your home's taxable value is $165,400 or less. The maximum credit is $1,900. Seniors recover a higher share of their property tax — up to 100% for the lowest-income seniors. File Form MI-1040CR.

What you'll need

• Property tax statements (taxable value and property taxes levied) or proof of rent paid
• Total household resources figures
• Form MI-1040CR

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need property tax statements (taxable value and property taxes levied) or proof of rent paid, total household resources figures, form MI-1040CR — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm you meet the basic eligibility rules. Your total household resources must be $71,500 or less, and your home's taxable value must be $165,400 or less. If either limit is exceeded, you cannot claim this credit.
2. Gather your documents. You will need your property tax statement showing the taxable value and property taxes levied — or proof of rent paid if you are a renter. You will also need your total household resources figures for the tax year.
3. Obtain Form MI-1040CR. This is the required form for the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit. Seniors age 65 and older should note that a senior credit-reduction table applies, which returns a larger share of property tax than the standard calculation.
4. Complete Form MI-1040CR. Fill in your property tax or rent information and your total household resources. Keep in mind that the credit phases out by 10% for every $1,000 of resources over $62,500, up to the $71,500 limit.
5. Apply by filing your completed Form MI-1040CR. You can file online or call the Michigan Department of Treasury at 1-517-636-4486 for assistance.
6. If you are a senior, disabled person, or veteran, ask your local treasurer about a separate option to defer property-tax payment while your credit is being processed.

What to expect: After you submit Form MI-1040CR, the Michigan Department of Treasury will review your claim. Because this is a refundable income-tax credit — not a monthly benefit or a tax freeze — any credit amount you qualify for will be refunded to you after your return is processed; processing times vary, so contact the Department of Treasury at 1-517-636-4486 for an estimate. This credit must be claimed every year, so plan to file a new Form MI-1040CR each tax year as long as you remain eligible.

Renewals

annual