Low-income homeowners and renters in Northville and Novi have until Wednesday, Sept. 30, to claim Michigan's Home Heating Tax Credit or lose the benefit for good.

The credit averaged $171 per qualifying household last year, according to the Oakland County Times, which published details from a Sept. 1 announcement by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's office. Payments are most often applied directly to utility bills. The credit cannot be claimed retroactively.

"This is a time-limited opportunity," Amy Epkey, acting director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), said in a Sept. 1 MDHHS statement. "If residents do not file by the end of September, they cannot claim the credit later."

Who qualifies

Applicants must be Michigan homeowners or renters with a signed lease and must fall below income limits set by the Michigan Department of Treasury. A single person must earn less than $17,243 in total household resources. A couple with no dependents can earn up to $23,271. A three-person household tops out at $29,329, a family of four at $35,385 and a six-person household at $47,471.

The credit is calculated based on income, household size and either a standard allowance or actual heating costs, whichever is more favorable.

Extra benefits

Some energy providers automatically give claimants a residential income assistance credit worth up to $20 per month, according to the MDHHS announcement. Seniors, disabled residents and veterans who receive food assistance and a Home Heating Credit above $20 may also qualify for increased food benefits.

How to file

Residents file using form MI-1040CR-7, which can be submitted by mail or electronically. A full state income tax return is not required.

Free filing help is available by calling 211, texting 898211 or visiting MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org. United Way and Community Action Agencies can also connect residents with nearby preparation sites.

Earlier in 2026, the Northville Senior Community Center at 303 West Main St. and the Novi Civic Center at 45175 W. 10 Mile Road served as free tax preparation locations during the February-through-April filing season. Whether those sites will reopen before the Sept. 30 deadline has not been confirmed. Residents should call 211 to check current availability.

Key date

Sept. 30 — Final deadline to file the Home Heating Credit Claim (MI-1040CR-7). Call 211 or visit MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org for free help.