Financial Hardship Policy

It is the objective of the Arenac County Treasurer to assist delinquent taxpayers in fulfilling their real property tax obligation and avoid foreclosure on any parcel the property owner wants to maintain. Applications for hardship consideration will be available at the County Treasurer's office.

Financial hardship will be considered at the show cause (administrative) hearing pursuant to any notice of said property. The show cause hearing date may also be obtained by contacting the Treasurer's office. The show cause hearing date is included on the personal notice visit as well as the certified notices sent to all owners and those individuals and companies indicated on the title search.

The applicant must establish that the property is a homestead parcel or qualified agriculture property, pursuant to MCL 211.7dd. This may be accomplished by signing an affidavit stating that they have been granted a homestead exemption that is currently in effect and not reflected on the County Treasurer's master tax file. Deeds or other documentation showing title and residency such as a driver's license, utility bills, and voter registration will also be required.

Applicants must also have the following available at the hearing:

  • State and Federal tax returns for the past two years
  • Verification of income
    • Social security statement
    • Land contracts and leases
    • State assistance statement
  • financial statement of condition (balance sheet)
  • documentation of application to local unit for exemption and their determination
  • provide details of all attempts for assistance or borrowing and the result of this effort

Income guidelines considered by the Treasurer are those poverty guidelines as issued annually by the Federal Department of Health and Human Services.

Applicants will also have the opportunity to disclose other conditions that may affect their ability to pay their taxes. This may include but is not limited to the following:

  • Existence of physical/mental disabilities
  • Health issues
  • Outstanding financial obligation due to conditions/factors outside the individuals control
  • Unemployment

A list of all applying for hardship deferrals will be forwarded to the respective local unit. Communities will be asked to help identify potential local sources of assistance for these individuals.

The granting of a hardship waiver only extends the time to pay the delinquent amount due. Interest at 1 ½ % monthly and any additional expenses continue to accrue on the parcel, increasing the tax liability. Ultimately, the Treasurer will determine if relief from foreclosure will enable the taxpayer to pay their delinquent tax within twelve (12) months of his decision.