Northwest Wayne News

Michigan recently decided to give 210,000 households a one-time payment credit to help families during the holiday season.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Nov. 4 that recipients who received home heating credits for the 2021 tax year would receive them again in 2022, according to a news release from Whitmer's office.

“The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services [MDHHS] is pleased to work with our partners at the Michigan Department of Treasury so that Michigan residents can have easy access to this additional home heating credit,” MDHHS Director, Elizabeth Hertel, said in the release. “These payments will allow families to spend more of their money on other necessities such as food in addition to ensuring they can pay their utility bills.”

Applications for home heating credit can be submitted during next year’s tax filing season with this year's recipients eligible for a $380 or $575 credit depending on household size, the release stated.

"No one should have to choose between keeping the heat on or paying for other essentials like rent, prescription medication or groceries, but far too many Michiganders face those kinds of choices," Whitmer said. "That’s why I’m proud to announce more relief from our home heading credit, which will keep families warm by covering heating costs.

“As we enter colder months, these extra dollars back in people’s pockets will save families money and help them meet their basic needs," she added. "I’ll work with anyone to save people money and ensure they have access to the basics that we all deserve."

Michigan residents can obtain more information about the program at the MDHHS website. The Michigan Department of Treasury has issued checks to eligible individuals, the release stated.

"If you already received a home heating credit payment this year, no further action is required,” Michigan Treasurer, Rachael Eubanks, said in the release. “A payment should be headed to your mailbox soon.”