Just bought a home in Jenison and wondering how to lower your property tax bill as a primary resident? You are not alone. Michigan’s Principal Residence Exemption can reduce the local school and non-homestead taxes you pay, but you have to file it the right way and with the right office. In this guide, you will learn exactly who to file with, what to submit, and when to do it so your first tax bill matches your new homeowner status. Let’s dive in.
What the PRE does
The Principal Residence Exemption is an exemption from certain local property taxes for a home you use as your principal residence. It helps reduce the non-homestead millages on your bill. You can only claim one principal residence at a time.
Local assessors use your PRE affidavit to set the correct tax treatment for your parcel. If someone claims PRE when they should not, the assessor can remove it and bill back taxes, interest, and civil penalties. For statewide rules and forms, review the Michigan Department of Treasury’s property tax resources on the Principal Residence Exemption.
- Learn more at the Michigan Department of Treasury’s property page: Michigan property tax and PRE resources
- For policy guidance, see the State Tax Commission: Michigan State Tax Commission
Where to file in Jenison
File your PRE affidavit with your municipal assessor, not the county treasurer. Jenison is an unincorporated community in Ottawa County, and most 49428 addresses fall within Georgetown Township. If your property is in a different township or city, you must file with that municipality’s assessor.
- To find your local office, start at the county site: Ottawa County
- If your home is in Georgetown Township: Georgetown Township
Tip: Your deed or closing statement usually lists the township or city for your parcel. You can also use county property tools linked from Ottawa County to confirm the correct jurisdiction.
How to confirm your assessor
- Check your deed or settlement statement for the township or city name.
- Use Ottawa County’s website to locate your municipal assessor and any assessor portal.
- Call your township or city assessor to confirm filing methods and office hours.
When to file
Michigan practice ties PRE eligibility for a given tax year to whether the home is your principal residence on a statutory date commonly recognized as June 1. Deadlines can change and procedures vary by municipality, so confirm the current filing date and accepted proof with your assessor.
If you closed before June 1
If you both own and occupy the home before the statutory date and you file by your assessor’s deadline, you are typically eligible for PRE for that tax year. Ask your assessor for the exact date they use and how to submit.
If you closed after June 1
If you buy and occupy after that date, PRE usually begins the next tax year. Example: If you close and move in on July 15, your PRE commonly takes effect on the following year’s tax cycle. Still file your affidavit right away so it is on record.
How to claim your PRE
Follow these steps as soon as you close.
1) Gather proof of residency
Collect documents that show you own the property and that it is your principal residence:
- Signed deed and closing or settlement statement
- Michigan driver’s license or state ID with your new address
- Utility bills in your name showing service start date
- Voter registration and vehicle registration reflecting the property address
Ask your assessor which documents they accept and whether copies are sufficient. Provide copies, not originals.
2) Get the PRE affidavit
Request the affidavit from your municipal assessor or download the standard state form from the Michigan Department of Treasury. Many assessors accept the state form.
- Statewide PRE information and forms: Michigan property tax and PRE resources
3) Complete and submit
Fill in owner names, property address and parcel ID, your occupancy date, and signatures. Submit your affidavit to the municipal assessor by the method they accept. Options may include in-person, mail, email, or online upload. Confirm submission methods and any additional requirements with your assessor.
4) Watch for confirmation
Keep copies of everything you submit. Your assessor may acknowledge receipt, request more proof, or update your parcel record for the next bill cycle. Review your first tax bill. If the PRE is missing or appears incorrect, contact the assessor promptly.
Special situations
Life and property can be complex. Here are common scenarios to ask your assessor about:
- Multiple parcels: If your home site spans contiguous parcels, ask whether each parcel needs an affidavit so the full homesite receives the exemption.
- Partial rental or business use: If you rent out part of the property or use a portion primarily for business, your eligibility can be affected. Your assessor can advise.
- Spousal transfers, estate changes, or trusts: Certain transfers between spouses or into qualifying trusts have specific rules. Confirm the right filing with your assessor or review State Tax Commission guidance.
- Audits and penalties: Assessors can ask for proof of principal residency. False or ineligible claims can lead to back taxes, interest, and civil penalties.
Quick checklist
- Keep your deed and closing statement with your possession date.
- Within days of closing, identify your municipal assessor.
- Obtain the PRE affidavit from your assessor or the Michigan Department of Treasury.
- Update your Michigan ID, voter and vehicle registrations, and utilities to your new address.
- Submit the affidavit and supporting documents by your assessor’s deadline.
- Save confirmation and watch your first tax bill to ensure the PRE appears.
Local help when you need it
If you are navigating a quick move, a tight PCS timeline, or just want a second set of eyes on your next steps, our West Michigan team is here to help you plan ahead. For guidance on local processes, paperwork, and your next move across Jenison or greater Grand Rapids, connect with William Leiter.
FAQs
What is Michigan’s Principal Residence Exemption?
- It is an exemption from certain local property taxes for a home you use as your principal residence, administered through your municipal assessor.
Who processes the PRE for a Jenison address?
- File with the assessor for the township or city where the property sits. Many Jenison homes are in Georgetown Township, but verify your exact municipality.
What documents support a PRE filing in Jenison?
- Common items include your deed and settlement statement, Michigan ID with the property address, utility bills, and voter or vehicle registration showing the address.
What is the PRE filing deadline in Michigan?
- Eligibility is tied to a statutory date commonly recognized as June 1. Always confirm the current deadline and procedures with your municipal assessor.
How do I confirm my PRE was applied?
- Watch your next tax bill and contact your assessor if the PRE is missing or incorrect. Keep copies of your affidavit and any acknowledgements for reference.
