The Office of the Governor of the State of Michigan

09/01/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/01/2026 12:24

Governor Whitmer Announces Home Heating Tax Credit Filing Deadline

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 1, 2026

Governor Whitmer Announces Home Heating Tax Credit Filing Deadline

Qualified renters and homeowners have until September 30 to claim credit, save money on energy bills

LANSING, Mich. - Today, Governor Whitmer promoted the Home Heating Tax Credit, reminding Michigan renters and homeowners that they have until Wednesday, September 30, to submit a claim. This credit helps eligible low-income households save money on energy costs during Michigan's colder months. Governor Whitmer, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), and the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) encourage residents to file before the deadline so they can save money on energy costs and keep more money in their pockets.

"No one should have to choose between keeping the heat on and affording their basic needs," said Governor Whitmer. "As we enter the colder months, I encourage all eligible Michiganders to submit their claim for the Home Heating Tax Credit before the September deadline. This credit helps families save on their heating bills, putting more money in their pocket for the essentials like food, medicine, and rent. Let's keeping working together to lower costs for every Michigander."

Last year, the average qualifying household received $171 in assistance, most often applied directly to utility bills. Food assistance recipients who are seniors, disabled, or veterans and receive a Home Heating Credit of more than $20 may also qualify for increased benefits. The Home Heating Credit cannot be claimed retroactively, so those who miss the September 30 deadline will lose the opportunity to receive this support.

"This is a time-limited opportunity," said acting MDHHS Director Amy Epkey. "If residents do not file by the end of September, they cannot claim the credit later. The Home Heating Credit helps families manage essential costs and can open the door to additional support. If you qualify, filing now is the best way to make sure you receive what you are eligible for."

"As we move into another heating season, don't miss your chance to apply for the Home Heating Credit," said Chief Deputy State Treasurer Lance Wilkinson. "It's a helpful way to reduce energy costs and keep more money available for other important needs. If you're eligible, be sure to apply before the deadline."

"Many families qualify for support but never receive it simply because they do not file," said acting executive director of CEDAM Ben Dowd. "By working together with state and local partners, we are making sure residents have the information and assistance they need to keep the money they've earned."

To qualify, Michigan residents must be either a renter with a contracted lease or a homeowner and meet income requirements. The most reliable way to claim the Home Heating Credit, along with other valuable tax credits, is through Michigan's free tax preparation services, available statewide.

Residents can connect with a free tax preparation provider by calling 211, texting 898211, or visiting MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org. Local human services organizations, including United Way and Community Action Agencies, can also help residents find a nearby site.

For details about eligibility, filing instructions, and other Home Heating Credit information, visit the Michigan Department of Treasury's Home Heating Credit Information webpage.

Lowering Costs for Michiganders

Governor Whitmer has been focused on lowering costs for Michiganders. Since taking office, the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration has:

  • Rolled back the retirement tax to save 500,000 households an average of $1,000 a year.
  • Ended state taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security.
  • Signed a deal raising the minimum wage to $15/hour one year ahead of schedule for more than 700,000 workers and making Michigan's earned sick time the best in the country, while providing more flexibility for small businesses.
  • Established Michigan Reconnect to offer any Michigander 25 and older tuition-free associate's degree or skills certificate. In this year's budget, expanded Michigan Reconnect to Michiganders 21 and older.
  • Established the Michigan Achievement Scholarship to save students thousands of dollars a year as they pursue a skills certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree.
  • Expanded access to free pre-K to every four-year-old so every kid can arrive at kindergarten ready to learn.
  • Delivered refunds of $400 per vehicle back in the pockets of Michigan drivers.
  • Announced the MI Open Account Coalition offering low or no-cost financial services, saving 120,000 eligible families an average of $3,000 a year and helping them build wealth.

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The Office of the Governor of the State of Michigan published this content on September 01, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on September 01, 2026 at 18:24 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]