HB 5761 Summary

• Allows property owners experiencing economic hardship from COVID-19 pandemic or the 2020 dam-structure flooding disasters to defer summer 2020 property tax payments until the regular payment deadline without penalties or interest.

• Requires property owners claiming deferment to file a statement of intent and affidavit with their local tax collecting unit by August 28, 2020, documenting economic hardship such as business closure, job loss, income reduction, or property damage.

• Establishes penalties including misdemeanor charges (30 days to 6 months jail and/or $500-$2,500 fine) for property owners who fraudulently claim eligibility for tax deferment.

• Delays the imposition of county property tax administration fees and 1% monthly interest on deferred summer 2020 property taxes until May 3, 2021, when they become delinquent.

• Requires the Michigan Department of Treasury to provide local tax collecting units with a standardized form for property owners to apply for tax deferment by July 28, 2020, including an electronic filing option.