MI HB5160

Establishes eligibility requirements for principal residence property tax exemptions based on poverty, requiring annual applications including federal/state income tax returns or affidavits, valid identification, and proof of ownership.

Requires applicants to meet federal poverty guidelines updated annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (42 USC 9902) or alternative guidelines adopted locally that are not less restrictive than federal guidelines.

Mandates local assessing units establish and publicize written policies and guidelines specifying income and asset levels for granting exemptions, which the board of review must follow unless substantial and compelling reasons for deviation are documented in writing.

Allows boards of review to grant exemptions retroactively for the current year or any of the immediately preceding 3 years if applicants met eligibility requirements, but applicants cannot receive refunds for taxes collected in prior years.

Permits applicants to simultaneously file exemption claims and appeal property assessments before the board of review in the same year.