INSTRUCTIONS: 2011 MICHIGAN HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX CREDIT CLAIM (Form MI-1040CR)

Michigan residents who are 65 years or older, the surviving spouses of someone who was 65 years or older at their time of death, or who are disabled may seek a property tax credit by filing a form MI-1040CR. This is also applicable to some recipients of public benefits. The instructions provided by the state's Department of Treasury will be necessary to complete this document. These documents can be found on the website of the state of Michigan. This article discusses the form for the 2011 tax year.

2011 Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit Claim MI-1040CR Step 1: Section 1 asks for your name and address, as well as your spouse's name if filing jointly. Enter your Social Security number in section 2, and that of your spouse (if applicable) in section 3. Enter the school district code where you live in section 4.

2011 Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit Claim MI-1040CR Step 2: In section 5, indicate with a check mark whether you qualify for a tax credit due to your age, status as the surviving spouse of a senior citizen, or due to disability.

2011 Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit Claim MI-1040CR Step 3: Homeowners should give their 2011 taxable homestead value in section 6 and the property taxes levied in section 7. Renters should enter their rent in section 8 and multiply that by 20% in section 9. Add sections 7 and 9 and enter the total in section 10.

2011 Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit Claim MI-1040CR Step 4: Sections 11 through 23 require you to list various sources of income for both spouses. Enter the total in section 24. Section 25 concerns other adjustments described in the instructions, while section 26 concerns medical insurance or HMO premiums paid for you or your family. Add these on line 27.

2011 Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit Claim MI-1040CR Step 5: Perform the calculations as indicated in sections 28 through 30. Read the instructions to see which of sections 31 through 34 you must complete. Section 35 concerns your residency status.

2011 Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit Claim MI-1040CR Step 6: On page 2, homeowners must complete Part 1, renters must complete Part 2, and those living in subsidized or special housing (such as cooperative housing) must complete Part 3. Sign and date the form.