Washtenaw County Treasurer

Catherine McClary, CPFO 

"Conversations" Interview with Catherine McClary on Tax Foreclosure Prevention

Washtenaw County Treasurer Catherine McClary was recently interviewed for "Conversations" on Ann Arbor's Channel 19 CitiTV. This interview will air three times daily from January 25 - February 8,  at 10:30 am, 6:30 pm, and 10:30 pm. The program can also be viewed on line at the link below.

"Conversations" Interview with Catherine McClary (video link)

Free Tax Preparation Services 2012

Free tax preparation services are aviable throughout the County to qualified taxpayers. Assistance is available at a variety of locations, and at a variety of dates and times. Please view the flyer below for additional details on the available services.

Tax Preparation Services Flyer (pdf)

Step Forward Michigan Offering Assistance to Homeowners Struggling With Mortgage Payments 

The Michigan Homeowner Assistance Nonprofit Housing Corporation (MHA) acting through Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has received federal funds from the U.S. Department of Treasury to help Michigan take a step forward through a comprehensive, statewide strategy that is aimed to help homeowners who are at high risk of default or foreclosure. Visit the link below to view the available programs, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

https://www.stepforwardmichigan.org/

Federal Trade Commission Short Sale Regulation

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a new Rule governing the solicitation and performance of “short sale” services. It was issued in response to complaints about false, misleading, and deceptive practices by “short sale” negotiators. It covers the nature and scope of their services and the fees they would receive. The Rule became effective January 31, 2011. Federal Trade Commission Short Sale Regulation (PDF).

New Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Rule

In order to protect homeowners, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) adopted a new rule that bans providers of mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification services from collecting fees until homeowners have a written offer from their lender or servicer that they decide is acceptable. The rule outlaws advance fees and false claims and requires clear disclosures. Most provisions of the rule are effective December 29, 2010 and the advance fee ban becomes effective January 31, 2011. To learn more, go to the FTC website at http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2010/11/mars.shtm.

On July 5, 2009, changes were made to Michigan's mortgage foreclosure laws for principal residences . The flyer below explains all of the major changes to the law, including the rights and responsibilities of both the homeowner and the mortgage company.

Under the new law, when a homeowner is facing foreclosure, the mortgage company must provide written notice via both first class and certified mail to the homeowner informing them of their rights and the opportunity to avoid foreclosure. The mortgage company must also provide the opportunity to modify the mortgage or implement loss mitigation actions.

They must also include a list of HUD or MSHDA certified housing counselors who can help homeowners create an action plan and develop a strategy for their home. If the homeowner requests a meeting,  foreclosure procedures can not begin until 90 days after the written notice was sent to the homeowner.

Please read the full details of all changes on the document below. If you have additional questions or would like to schedule an appointment with a HUD and MSDHA certified housing counselor, please call 734-222-9595 or email mfpp@ewashtenaw.org.

 Michigan's New Foreclosure Laws Fact Sheet

Advisory For Homeowners:
State Attorney General Files 18 Counts for Foreclosure Rescue Fraud

Make sure you are working with a reputable company if you are refinancing, working on a loan modification or purchasing a new home.  It's illegal for a company to take money up front when negotiating on your behalf with your lender.  Be informed of known scammers by reading this important notice!

If you paid Save My Home USA, Payment Doctors, or the Michigan Economic Reinstatement Program for services that were not provided, call the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at (877) 765-8388 for a refund.

Refund Information and Press Release 

2010 Senior Deferment Form (pdf)  
The senior deferment program allows seniors and eligible farmers, veterans, and people with disabilities to use their homestead property tax refund from the State of Michigan to pay their property taxes.

Upcoming Events
A variety of free seminars offering housing counseling and financial literacy education

Facing the Mortgage Crisis (Video Link)
'Facing the Mortgage Crisis', is a foreclosure crisis panel discussion including Washtenaw County Treasurer Catherine McClary. In this hour-long program, which originally aired on Detroit Public Television, the expert panel discusses which steps you can take to help save your home from foreclosure.

Understanding Taxable Value (pdf)
An explanation of taxable values, and appealing assessments

Bank of America Resumes Foreclosures  

Bank of America, the nation’s largest bank by assets, is resuming foreclosure proceedings and sales across the United States, according to reports.  Story on The Wall Street Journal Online.

The Federal Trade Commission has an advisory for homeowners regarding  recent mortgage foreclosure freezes.

Washtenaw County Treasurer

Catherine McClary, CPFO

The County Treasurer is authorized by the Michigan Constitution and State law to serve as the County's Banker and Investment Officer. The Treasurer's primary responsibilities are to safeguard public funds and to collect and account for the revenue used to operate programs for County residents. To learn more about the duties and services the County Treasurer provides, click on one of the following links:

Mission of the County Treasurer 

To model best practices in cash and financial management through effective internal controls and a cohesive, talented team. To fulfill customer need through communication, outreach, and education.