The state of Michigan and The Mining Journal are strongly suggesting that low- and moderate-income Michigan residents apply for a home heating tax credit.

The Sept. 30 deadline to apply is fast approaching; this is a government program that actually works to help people.

“Every family should be able to keep the heat on and stay warm and safe through our Michigan winters,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a press release. “I am proud of the work we have done to fund and expand the Home Heating Tax Credit, and I urge families to apply by Sept. 30 so they can be ready for the fall and winter.”

The credit is available to Michigan residents annually. This year, $120 million of funding is available for homeowners and renters who qualify to receive the assistance, up from $70 million last year.

In 2021, the average household who qualified for the credit received $216, and this year, those who receive food assistance benefits and received the credit may be eligible for an increase in the benefits.

“Eligible individuals should not wait to apply for the Home Heating Credit with the Sept. 30 deadline approaching,” state Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said in a news release. “This important tax credit can provide some relief as we enter into the fall heating season, leaving more money available for other critical needs.”

To qualify for the credit, applicants must be a homeowner or a renter with a contracted lease and meet the income requirements listed on https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/questions/iit/accordion/heating/home-heating-credit-information-1.

It’s assumed that many qualified local residents are not participating in this program.

We encourage residents to apply. Will it solve all of your heating problems? Probably not.

But every little bit does help.