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HOPE Application Assistance

UCHC is here to help Detroit residents keep their homes. Our Tax Foreclosure Prevention team helps low-income homeowners with the HOPE application. Our counselors guide you step by step to make sure your application is complete and accurate for the best chance of approval.

Purpose of the HOPE Application

The Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE) program, offered by the City of Detroit, provides an essential opportunity for homeowners to be exempt from their current year’s property taxes based on household income. This exemption helps ensure that low-income homeowners can remain in their homes without the financial burden of property taxes.

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If you qualify for HOPE, you may avoid falling behind on your property taxes, reducing the risk of foreclosure and promoting long-term housing stability.​

The Detroit Tax Relief Fund is an assistance program that will completely eliminate delinquent property taxes owed to the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office for Detroit homeowners who have received the Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE) and the Pay As You Stay (PAYS) program. Ask your counselor for details.

Eligibility Requirements for HOPE

To qualify for the HOPE property tax exemption, homeowners must:

  • Reside in the property they are applying for (it must be their primary residence).

  • Meet the income requirements set by the City of Detroit.

  • Provide documentation to verify their identity, residency, income, and property ownership.

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You must reapply every year! If you were approved for the 2024 HOPE you will have to apply again to receive it for 2025.

Schedule Your HOPE Appointment

To schedule an appointment with a Tax Foreclosure Prevention counselor:

Our counselors are here to support you in completing your application and securing the exemption.

Documents Needed for Your Appointment​

To apply for the 2025 HOPE program, you need to bring these items:​

  1. Proof of Ownership:

    • A document showing you own the home, like a deed, land contract, probate court order, or divorce judgment.

  2. Photo ID:

    • A government-issued ID with your photo and address for you and anyone 18 or older living in the home.

  3. Proof of Income:

    • Income proof for everyone in the house, including children. Examples include:

      • W-2s or pay stubs.

      • Social Security (SSI/SSD) statements.

      • Pension or child support documents.

      • Self-employment records.

      • A signed and notarized letter from someone helping you financially.

  4. Tax Returns or Affidavit:

    • 2024 Federal and State tax returns for all adults in the home (if filed).

    • If an adult didn’t need to file taxes, they must complete a Michigan Treasury Form 4988 (Poverty Exemption Affidavit) and bring other proof of income, like W-2s or Social Security statements.

  5. Proof of Residency for Children:

    • Bring something that shows all children live in the home, like:

      • A school report card or transcript.

      • A tax return listing the child.

      • A statement from FIA (Family Independence Agency).

 

If you’re not sure about a document or need help getting it, contact us before your appointment!

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