by Dave Haslam, local AARP Tax Aide Volunteer
Most Michigan residents who have less than $63,000 in total annual income and who pay property taxes or rent are eligible for up to a $1,500 state tax refund. In addition, many low income residents are eligible for a home heating credit to help with their winter heating bills.
The key to both of these credits is that residents have to file their Michigan state tax return to claim the credits. There are many seniors who are not required to file their taxes because they have low or no taxable income. However, if they did file their taxes they may be eligible for one or both of these valuable tax credits, which they would receive as a refund even if they owe no taxes.
Bill Leikhim is the Local Coordinator of the Midland branch of AARP Tax-Aide. Bill reports that “We here at Midland AARP Tax-Aide can file for the property tax and home heating credits for free for seniors who are eligible for them. Many seniors may not realize that Michigan residents who pay rent instead of owning a home may also be eligible for the property tax credit. I would recommend that any senior who has not been filing their taxes make an appointment with us and let us determine if they are eligible for these credits.”
AARP Tax-Aide is a national volunteer organization that provides in-person and virtual tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.
The Midland branch of AARP Tax-Aide prepares tax returns on Thursdays and Fridays from early February through mid-April, and operates in the Barstow/Shipps Senior Center at the Midland Community Center. Taxes are done by appointment and appointments can be made beginning January 9, 2023 by calling (989) 832-7937 ext. 6.
