Detroit homeowners facing financial hardship have until November 7 at 4:30 p.m. to apply for the City’s Homeowners Property Exemption (HOPE) program, which helps residents reduce or eliminate their current year property taxes and avoid the risk of foreclosure.
The HOPE program, an income-based initiative, offers qualified homeowners property tax reductions of 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%, depending on their income. Last year, more than 10,000 Detroit homeowners received relief through the program—an essential protection in a city that has long battled one of the nation’s highest rates of property tax foreclosures.
According to the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office, tens of thousands of Detroit properties entered tax foreclosure between 2010 and 2019, disproportionately impacting Black homeowners. In response, the City has worked to expand outreach for programs like HOPE to keep residents in their homes and stabilize neighborhoods.
“Over the summer we held several HOPE events to reach as many homeowners as possible to make them aware of the help that’s available. We are making every effort to help Detroit homeowners stay in their homes,” said Willie Donwell, Director of the Board of Review, City Council. “For years, the HOPE program has provided tax relief to thousands of homeowners, making their payments affordable and protecting them from the threat of foreclosure. We urge anyone who is eligible or facing financial hardship to apply for this vital support before the November 7 deadline.”
The application deadline was moved up from early December to early November to allow the City of Detroit Property Assessment Board of Review additional time to reach applicants with incomplete submissions and ensure they have a fair opportunity to qualify.
Eligibility for HOPE is based on household income and homeownership status—the applicant must own and occupy their home as their primary residence. Homeowners who fall below the income guidelines are generally approved. Those who qualify may also become eligible for other programs that help pay off delinquent property taxes.
Formerly known as the Homeowners Property Tax Assistance Program (HPTAP) and sometimes referred to as the Poverty Tax Exemption (PTE) or Hardship Program, HOPE is an annual application, meaning homeowners must reapply each year to remain eligible.
Residents can apply online or schedule an in-person appointment by visiting www.detroitmi.gov/HOPE or calling (313) 244-0274. Walk-ins are welcome between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. during designated assistance hours.
