Michigan property taxes are due twice a year, with payments split between summer and winter

Michigan splits property tax bills into two installments: the summer tax bill is due July 31, and the winter tax bill is due February 14. Both dates are firm important date. If you pay after July 31 or February 14, you owe a penalty and interest on top of the unpaid amount.

Your local treasurer's office sends bills in June (for summer) and December (for winter). The bill shows what you owe, where to send payment, and the exact due date. If you do not receive a bill, contact your township or city treasurer—not receiving it does not erase the debt.

Payment methods vary by township. Most accept checks by mail, some take online payments through their website, and a few accept payments in person at the treasurer's office. A few townships use third-party payment processors. Check your bill or your local treasurer's website to see what your township accepts.

Key Takeaways

  • Summer property taxes are due July 31 and winter taxes are due February 14 each year in Michigan.
  • Payments made after the important date incur a penalty and interest charge on the unpaid balance.
  • Your local township or city treasurer sends bills by mail and specifies accepted payment methods on the bill itself.
  • If you own property in multiple townships, each township sends its own bill on its own schedule.

What happens if you miss the important date

A penalty of 3 percent is added to any payment received after the due date. Interest then accrues monthly on the unpaid balance at a rate set by the state—currently 12 percent per year, though this rate can change. The penalty is charged once, but interest compounds each month the debt remains unpaid.

If property taxes go unpaid for a full year, the county can begin foreclosure proceedings. This process takes time, but it is real: the county can eventually sell your property to recover the debt. Contacting your treasurer before the important date to discuss a payment plan is far better than ignoring the bill.

Payment plans and hardship options

If you cannot pay the full amount by the important date, contact your township treasurer before July 31 (for summer taxes) or February 14 (for winter taxes). Some townships offer payment plans that let you spread the cost over several months without the 3 percent penalty, though interest may still explore. The treasurer has discretion to work with you, but only if you reach out before the important date passes.

Michigan does not have a statewide property tax deferral program for homeowners based on age or income. However, some townships may offer local relief programs. Your treasurer can tell you whether your township has any hardship options. Senior citizens and disabled homeowners may be may be able to access for the Homestead Property Tax Credit, a separate state program that reduces your tax bill—contact your local assessor's office or the Michigan Department of Treasury for details.

How to find your local treasurer and payment address

Your property tax bill lists the treasurer's mailing address and office location. If you have lost the bill, search online for "[your township name] Michigan treasurer" or "[your city name] Michigan treasurer." Most townships post their office hours, phone number, and accepted payment methods on their website.

If you own property in multiple townships (for example, a cottage in one county and a home in another), each township will send you a separate bill. Do not assume one payment covers both properties. Keep track of all bills and their separate due dates.

Online and automatic payment options

A growing number of Michigan townships accept online payments through their websites, often using a third-party processor. Check your bill or your township's website to see if this option is available. Online payment usually costs a small fee (typically $2 to $5), which you pay in addition to your tax bill.

Some townships do not offer automatic recurring payments, so you will need to log in and submit payment each time. A few larger cities do allow you to set up automatic payments, but this is not standard across the state. Call your treasurer's office to ask what options exist for your specific township.

Renters and property tax responsibility

Renters do not pay property taxes directly—the property owner does. However, property taxes are often factored into rent. If you are renting and want to know whether your property taxes are current, you cannot access that information yourself. Only the owner and the local assessor's office have that record.

If you are concerned about your rental property's tax status (for example, if you suspect the owner is not paying), you have no direct recourse as a tenant. Unpaid property taxes can eventually lead to foreclosure, which would displace you. If this is a concern, contact your local legal aid office or tenant rights organization for guidance specific to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I pay my property taxes through an escrow account with my mortgage lender?

Your lender handles the payment to the township on your behalf. You still need to may support your escrow account has enough money—contact your lender if you are unsure. The township does not know or care whether you or your lender pays; they only care that the bill is paid by the important date.

Can I pay my property taxes in one lump sum instead of two installments?

You can pay both the summer and winter taxes at once if you wish, but you must pay by the earlier important date (July 31). Paying early does not reduce your bill. Some people pay both at once for convenience; others prefer to split the cost across two payments.

Do I owe property taxes if I just bought the property mid-year?

The previous owner typically owes taxes up to the sale date, and you owe taxes from the sale date forward. Your closing documents should clarify this split. The township will send you a bill for your portion. If you are unsure, ask your real estate agent or attorney to explain the tax proration in your purchase agreement.

What if my property is in a special assessment district?

Special assessments (for sewers, roads, or other improvements) are billed separately from property taxes and may have different due dates. Your bill will show both the property tax amount and any special assessment. Pay both by their respective important date to avoid penalties on either one.

Can I deduct Michigan property taxes on my federal income tax return?

This is a federal tax question, not a Michigan state question. The rules change year to year and depend on your total deductions. Speak with a tax professional or consult IRS Publication 587 for current information on property tax deductibility.