LANSING, Mich. — (RealEstateRama) — The Michigan Agency for Energy (MAE) today noted that the September 30 deadline to apply for Michigan’s Home Heating Credit (HHC) in 2016 (for tax year 2015) is quickly approaching. The credit assists low-income people and qualifying senior citizens with winter energy bills. Customers do not need to file a Michigan tax return to apply for the Home Heating Credit.
The average credit paid out in 2015 was $132.
“The Home Heating Credit is available to assist low-income utility customers with winter heating bills,” noted Valerie Brader, MAE executive director. “The Michigan Agency for Energy encourages low-income customers to apply for this important credit before the deadline – September 30.”
The Home Heating Credit is funded by the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant. Home Heating Credits are processed by the Michigan Department of Treasury. The form (MI-1040CR-7) may be obtained from the Department of Treasury’s website – michigan.gov/taxes – or by calling 517-636-4486.
Eligible customers must have their homestead in Michigan, must own or rent the home in which they live, and for the standard allowance, their income must fall within certain limits, as the following chart indicates:
Number of Exemptions* Maximum Income
0 or 1 $12,956
2 $17,528
3 $22,099
4 $26,699
5 $31,270
6 $35,842
*Note: Add $4,571 for each additional exemption over 6. Special exemptions are available for the deaf, blind, or those with a disability.
Customers of a regulated heating fuel utility may not be shut off between the time they apply for the HHC and the time they receive the credit. Customers who may have a shut off notice and have applied for the HHC should contact their utility to let it know they have applied for the credit.
“Low-income customers may also be eligible for other assistance programs administered by utilities and consumer agency programs, and should contact their utility company or call 2-1-1 for more information,” Brader added. “The consumer tips sheet on the Home Heating Credit also has additional helpful information.”
Customers who need assistance filing for the HHC should call 2-1-1.
For more information about MAE, please visit www.michigan.gov/energy.
