Great Lakes Wire

State funds from this credit reduce heating bills of qualified Michigan renters, homeowners

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is partnering with the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) to encourage qualified residents to apply for the Home Heating Credit before the Monday, Sept. 30 deadline.

“The Home Heating Credit helps Michigan families stay warm and can offset rising energy costs,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “We urge Michiganders to apply for this credit so that they can get money back in their pockets to keep the heat on and spend their hard-earned paychecks to put food on the table and pay the bills. At the state level, we will continue working together to ensure every Michigan family has the opportunity to save money and thrive.”

This year, the average qualifying household received $180 in assistance, which is most often applied directly to residents’ utility bills. Some energy providers automatically provide claimants a residential income assistance credit worth up to $20 monthly. Additionally, food assistance recipients receiving a Home Heating Credit of over $20 may be eligible for increased benefits.

“We encourage Michigan families to claim their Home Heating Credit by the September 30 deadline,” MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel said. “Residents must claim it by the deadline, or they will not be eligible and will miss out on the opportunity to receive this credit which could help pay for their utility bills during the colder months.”

To qualify, residents must be either renters with a contracted lease or homeowners who meet income requirements. The best way to apply for the Home Heating Credit, along with other tax credits available in Michigan, is through one of the state's trusted free tax preparation services.

Free tax preparation is a community service designed to help improve financial well-being among Michiganders. Persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking ability, and those earning less than $64,000 annually are qualified for these services provided by trained and certified volunteers.

“Although temperatures may be warm now, fall heating season is just a few months away,” said State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “The Home Heating Credit can help with heating bills, allowing individuals and families to spend their hard-earned dollars on other necessities. Local free tax preparation can help taxpayers navigate paperwork necessary for receiving this important credit and others. Please don’t hesitate to seek voluntary assistance if you think you’re eligible.”

Residents can connect with local free tax preparation sites by calling 211 or visiting MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org. Local human services nonprofits such as United Way and Community Action Agency also refer community members to these sites.