What is an "Assessment Cap"?

An "Assessment Cap" refers specifically to a cap on the annual increase in taxable value of a property. In Michigan, this cap is designed to control how much a property’s assessed value—and therefore taxable value—can increase in relation to market fluctuations. The Assessment Cap limits the increase to the lesser of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 5% per year.

This mechanism serves as a protective measure for property owners, ensuring that any increases in property taxes due to rising market values do not exceed a manageable level. It also provides a degree of predictability in tax bills, allowing homeowners to budget more effectively for their property taxes year-over-year.

This cap is particularly important in areas experiencing rapid appreciation in property values, as it helps to stabilize the tax burden on residents and can be a crucial element in property tax administration and planning.