City of Detroit to host 2nd Taxpayer Resource Fair to help residents avoid risk of foreclosure, launches new website

The Detroit Taxpayer Service Center is hosting its second Taxpayer Resource Fair this year to share vital information and resources to help Detroiters stay in their homes and avoid the risk of foreclosure. The fair will be held Friday, July 21, from noon to 3 p.m. at Heilman Recreation Center, 19601 Brock Ave. on Detroit’s east side.

Fair attendees can get information about current and delinquent property taxes and also get connected to taxpayer resources and programs including the city’s Plan Ahead Program, and the HOPE (Homeowners Property Tax Exemption) Program. Detroit’s Office of the Assessor, BSEED (Building Safety Engineering and Environment Dept.), COD-Clearances Dept., Water and Sewage Dept, Detroit Police Dept., Wayne County Treasurer’s Office along with DivDat representatives and SER- Metro Detroit – will all be on hand to assist residents. Taxpayers can get information on:

• Current and delinquent property taxes
• Plan Ahead Program (City of Detroit)
• Convenient ways to pay taxes
• IRSPA Program (Interest Reduction Stipulated Payment Agreement)
• Pay as You Stay
• HOPE Program
• Exemptions and more

The Michigan Secretary of State mobile office unit will be part of the fair as well.

Since 2015, the number of owner-occupied homes lost to county tax foreclosure each year dropped by nearly 95%, in large part because of these programs. The city, however, wants to continue to lower those numbers even more.

“We had a great turnout in our first fair in February where the team connected with more than 100 residents and we’re excited to host our second event to continue our efforts to help Detroiters stay in their homes,” said John Naglick, deputy CFO, finance director.

Summer property taxes are due August 31 and winter property taxes are due January 15. Anyone who is behind on their taxes or having difficulty staying current should attend this event. Homeowners should be prepared to share an address or parcel number.

DTSC is also launching its new interactive website to address questions and concerns surrounding property taxes and other taxpayer matters more quickly. The new website, www.detroitmi.gov/DTSC uses an efficient ticket numbering system that allows taxpayers to submit a question and DTSC staff will respond within 48 business hours. Through the new website, residents can submit questions about refunds, payments, adjustments, business clearances and solid waste and deferment applications.

For additional information on the Taxpayer Resource Fair, email DTSC@detroitmi.gov.