Letter from attorney to opposing counsel requesting documentation concerning homestead exemption for change of venue motion.
Letter from attorney to opposing counsel requesting documentation concerning homestead exemption for change of venue motion.
A homestead can be defined as the house and adjoining land where the owner primarily resides. Legally, what constitutes as a homestead varies state by state. Properties that qualify as homesteads may also benefit from homestead exemptions, which can offer homeowners certain financial and legal protections.
Keep in mind, your homestead exemption doesn't transfer— you must apply for homestead when you move to a new property. You apply for portability, or “port,” at the same time with a form called DR-501T.
What is “portability”? Portability allows owners of homesteaded property to transfer some of the tax savings they have accrued on their property under the “Save Our Homes” law.
Michigan Department of Treasury Form 2602 (Rev. 6-99), Request to Rescind/Withdraw Homestead Exemption, is required to be filed if you wish to adjust an exemption.
While the specifics can vary by state, generally, homestead exemptions are only available for an individual or family's primary residence. This means you cannot claim homestead exemptions in multiple states.
You may file a claim for your new home before May 1 of the following year by filing a Homestead Exemption Affidavit (form 2368) that is available at closing or from your local assessor.
In Michigan, the homestead exemption is available to anyone who owns and occupies a residential property as their primary residence. The property must be located on 40 acres or less of land, and you must have lived in the property for at least 730 days prior to filing for bankruptcy.
The IRS prohibits married couples from claiming two primary residences for tax purposes. The designation of a primary residence, or “main home,” holds significant importance for homeowners due to the array of tax benefits tied to this status.
Filing an Affidavit for Homestead Exemption (form 2368) available at the closing or from your local assessor may qualify new residences.
You may claim your Michigan home only if you own it and occupy it as your principal residence. You may not have more than one principal residence.