The Michigan PRE, on one page

What it is

The PRE removes the local school operating tax — up to 18 mills — from the home you actually live in. That is roughly $18 per $1,000 of Taxable Value, every year. It applies only to your principal residence, not to rentals, cottages, or second homes.

How to claim it

File Form 2368 with the city or township assessor — not the lender, and not the county. It is not automatic at closing. Some closing teams help with the form; confirm it was actually accepted.

The two deadlines

• June 1 — a valid form on file by this date can lower that year's summer bill.
• November 1 — missed June 1? A form filed by November 1 can lower the winter levy. Missed both? Ask the assessor what the next option is.

The common mistakes

• Assuming the closing paperwork filed it. Confirm with the assessor's office.
• Keeping the PRE after moving out. When the home is no longer your main home, file Form 2602 to remove it.
• Expecting a zero school tax. The PRE removes school operating mills; county, city, library, debt, and special levies stay on the bill.
• Moving before the old house sells: a conditional rescission (Form 4640) can sometimes cover both homes for a time — it has rules; ask the assessor.