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 Washtenaw County Equalization and Property Description Department and County Treasurer.
Relief programs
The filing guidance for this county is: For 2026, file Michigan Form 2368 Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit with the local assessor by May 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 applicationNo single countywide senior exemption was identified in the official county sources reviewed. Eligible senior citizens and other statutory categories may apply locally for Michigan summer-tax deferment; qualifying homeowners may also use the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit and local poverty or disabled-veteran relief programs.
Michigan Proposal A taxable-value cap: the State Tax Commission's 2026 inflation-rate multiplier is 1.027 (2.7%); 2026 capped value is (2025 taxable value − losses) × 1.027 + additions, subject to the statutory 5% ceiling. Transfers of ownership generally uncap taxable value in the following year; additions, losses, and statutory exceptions 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. Michigan's State Tax Commission 2026 calendar sets the organizational meeting for March 3, appeal meetings beginning March 9 (with March 10 or 11 permitted locally), and completion by April 6, 2026; local meeting dates and notices control. Further Michigan Tax Tribunal deadlines depend on the claim. If the language is not a specific calendar date, contact the office promptly for the current notice and board-review schedule.