MARQUETTE — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, along with the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan, is encouraging low- and moderate-income Michigan residents to apply for the Home Heating Credit before the Sept. 30 deadline.

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.

CEDAM was awarded with a $1 million grant earlier this year to help with increasing access to the credit by helping with free tax preparation services.

“Every family should be able to keep the heat on and stay warm and safe through our Michigan winters,” 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. This credit goes directly to qualified homeowners and renters in Michigan, lowering their costs and saving them money to pay other bills and put food on the table. I will work with anyone to offer families real relief, and I am grateful to the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan for their work in getting this done.”

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. “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.

According to the state, the best way to qualify for the Home Heating Credit, among other tax credits, is make an appointment at a free tax preparation site.

“There are over 70 locations across Michigan where residents can go to meet with trained, expert tax professionals at no cost,” said Matt Hetherwick, director of individual tax programs at Accounting Aid Society. “Everyone should file a tax return, even if they are not required to, because tax credits and benefits are waiting to be claimed.”

Anyone interested in finding a local free tax preparation location can visit www.michiganfreetaxhelp.org.