Tax relief and valuation review
A homestead exemption, senior-relief program, or valuation protest can change the amount a homeowner owes—but only if the filing reaches the right local office in the correct window. Use the verified county guidance below as your working checklist, then confirm the current form and deadline with Mason County Equalization Department and Mason County Treasurer's Office.
Relief programs
The filing guidance for this county is: For the 2026 tax year, file Michigan Form 2368 Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit with the local city, township, or village assessor by June 1, 2026 for the summer levy or November 1, 2026 for the winter levy; local-unit instructions control. Use the official form or application channel, provide the residence and ownership documentation requested, and keep a copy of the submission.
Open homestead applicationMichigan has no single countywide senior exemption identified in the official sources reviewed. Eligible senior citizens and other statutory categories may apply to the local city, township, or village treasurer for summer-tax deferment using Form 471; the state requires filing with the local treasurer by the designated deadline. Qualified homeowners or renters may also claim the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit.
Michigan Proposal A taxable-value cap: for 2026, the State Tax Commission inflation-rate multiplier is 1.027 (2.7%). The capped-value formula is (2025 taxable value minus losses) × 1.027 + additions, subject to the statutory 5% ceiling. A transfer of ownership generally uncaps taxable value in the following year; additions, losses, and statutory exceptions also apply.
Appealing an assessment
Use the valuation notice and the county’s published protest guidance to determine the last day to file. Do not assume the payment deadline controls the appeal.
Gather comparable sales, photographs, repair records, appraisal evidence, property characteristics, and any documentation that explains why the assessed value is incorrect.
Submit through the official channel, save the confirmation, and attend the board or review hearing if one is scheduled. An appraiser or attorney can help evaluate evidence when the value or stakes are substantial.
The verified protest guidance for this county is: 2026 assessment appeals must first be filed with the local city, township, or village Board of Review during its March 2026 meeting period; local schedules and notice control. Further Michigan Tax Tribunal deadlines depend on classification and statutory filing date; no single countywide date was published. If the language is not a specific calendar date, contact the office promptly for the current notice and board-review schedule.