Telegram - Serving Metropolitan Detroit Since 1944

Detroit homeowners struggling to pay their annual property taxes have until December 12 to apply to the City's HOPE program to try and qualify for a full or partial property tax exemption for 2022, officials said today.

HOPE stands for Homeowners Property Exemption and provides an opportunity for homeowners to be exempt from their 2022 property taxes based on household income. So far this year, 10,183 Detroit homeowners have been approved for either a 10 percent, 25 percent, 50 percent or 100 percent reduction in their taxes.

For residents who need help completing the HOPE application, the City and nonprofit partners are hosting in-person END OF YEAR HOPE Events by appointment only:

December 9, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Samaritan Center

5555 Conner St.

Detroit, MI 48213

December 12, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Wayne Metro Community Action Agency

7310 Woodward Ave.

Detroit, MI 48202

This is the last opportunity to receive in-person assistance before the HOPE December 12 deadline. Residents can apply online or schedule an in-person appointment at a HOPE event by visiting http://www.detroitmi.gov/HOPE or contact the Call Center at (313) 244-0274, walk-ins for the events are available between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

"Our highest priority as a City is to keep Detroit homeowners in their homes," said Willie Donwell, Director, Board of Review, City Council. "Over the years, the HOPE program has helped thousands of homeowners reduce their tax burden to an affordable level so they cannot be in fear of falling behind and at risk of foreclosure. We're asking anyone who may be eligible or at risk to reach out and apply before December 12 said, Donwell.

Who qualifies?

Eligibility for HOPE is based on household income and whether a person owns and occupies their home as their primary residence. Most homeowners whose income is below the guidelines are generally approved.

Approved HOPE applications may make you eligible for other assistance programs and help in paying off delinquent property taxes.

HOPE, formerly the Homeowners Property Tax Assistance Program (HPTAP) is also referred to as the Poverty Tax Exemption, "PTE" or Hardship Program. The HOPE application is an annual application and homeowners must apply every year.

Additional HOPE Income info

An additional $4,540 for each person over 8 for a Full Exemption

An additional $4,812 for each person over 8 for a 50% Exemption

An additional $5,085 for each person over 8 for a 25% Exemption

An additional $7,082 for each person over 8 for a 10% Exemption based on 20% loss of income

An additional $8,853 for each person over 8 for a 10% Exemption for threat of foreclosure