Homeowners struggling with delinquent property taxes have a limited window to take advantage of a program that could significantly reduce the financial burden of back taxes and help them remain in their homes.
Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree is encouraging eligible property owners to enroll in the Interest Reduction Stipulated Payment Agreement (IRSPA) program before June 30, 2026, when the program is scheduled to end unless the Michigan Legislature takes action.
The IRSPA program was created to help owner-occupied homeowners manage delinquent property taxes by reducing the interest rate on unpaid taxes from 18 percent to 6 percent. The program allows taxpayers to consolidate multiple years of delinquent taxes into a single payment agreement, making it easier to establish a manageable repayment plan.
Sabree said the program has served as an important tool for homeowners facing financial challenges and warned that the opportunity may soon disappear.
“Without action by the Michigan Legislature before June 30, this vital payment plan will end this month,” Sabree said. “We are urging Wayne County property owners who may be struggling to pay back taxes to enroll while they still can, before the Legislature puts an end to this program.”
The Treasurer’s Office says the program is designed specifically for homeowners who live in their property as their primary residence. To qualify, applicants must have a Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) on file to verify that the home serves as their permanent residence. Property owners whose taxes are listed under a different name must also provide a copy of the deed as proof of ownership.
For many families, the program offers a critical opportunity to avoid falling further behind on property taxes and to create a realistic path toward financial stability. By bundling all outstanding tax obligations into a single payment plan and reducing the interest charged, homeowners can focus on resolving their tax debt while maintaining ownership of their property.
The looming June 30 deadline has created added urgency for eligible residents who may benefit from the program. Officials in the Treasurer’s Office are encouraging homeowners not to wait until the last minute to begin the enrollment process.
Enrollment assistance is available in person at the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office, located at 400 Monroe Street in downtown Detroit. Taxpayer assistance staff are available during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to answer questions, determine eligibility, and assist with enrollment.
Residents who qualify for the program are encouraged to act promptly to secure the reduced interest rate before the program expires.
Additional information about the Interest Reduction Stipulated Payment Agreement, including enrollment forms and payment plan details, is available through the Wayne County Treasurer’s Office. Homeowners can also contact the office directly at 313-224-5990 or by email at treasurer@waynecounty.com for assistance.
With the program’s future uncertain, county officials say now is the time for homeowners with delinquent property taxes to explore their options and take advantage of a resource that could provide meaningful financial relief while helping preserve homeownership.
