Michiganders who receive food assistance are encouraged to file for a Home Heating Credit to make sure they get the full amount of benefits they are eligible to receive.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is making Michigan residents aware of the potential effect the credit can have on federal food assistance benefits available through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Some renters could qualify for increased monthly food assistance if they receive a Home Heating Credit of more than $20 in the current month or any of the previous 12 months and then notify their MDHHS caseworker.
The credit in some cases is a factor in determining the amount of food assistance for renters who don’t pay their heating costs separately.
The Home Heating Credit is available to customers who meet income requirements and own or rent a home in Michigan. Apply by filling out Form MI-1040CR-7 for 2015. It is available without filing a Michigan tax return. To get a form:
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Visit the Michigan Department of Treasury website at gov/treasury and enter “Home Heating Credit” in the search box.
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Pick up a paper copy at a public library, post office, MDHHS office or other locations where income tax forms are available.
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Call the Department of Treasury at 517-636-4486.
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If you are hearing- or speech-impaired, contact the Michigan Relay Center, 800-649-2777 or 7-1-1.
Call 2-1-1 to find local agencies that provide assistance with completing tax forms. Michiganders should file as soon as they know their household income for 2015. The deadline is Sept. 30.
Frequently asked questions about the credit and food assistance can be found on the MDHHS website.
