Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. Legal problems can feel scary, especially when it's about your home. I'm really glad you picked this up. There is legal help in Michigan, and you have rights.
Here is the easy first step: go to Michigan Legal Help for plain language guides and its Guide to Legal Help, which points you to a lawyer. If you have court papers, call legal aid the same day. We'll walk through the rest together.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- This guide is general information, not legal advice. Talk to a lawyer about your situation.
- Never ignore court papers. Deadlines matter.
Michigan Legal Help has information and tools for people handling their own legal problems, including leases, eviction, security deposits, debt, benefits, family law and clearing criminal records. Its Guide to Legal Help asks a few questions and points you to the best legal information and lawyer referrals for your problem.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://michiganlegalhelp.org/
How to get legal help, step by step
- Gather every paper you have, like your lease and any court papers.
- Write down your court date, if you have one.
- Use the Guide to Legal Help on Michigan Legal Help, or call a legal aid office.
- Ask if you qualify for help from a lawyer.
- Go to every court date, even if you're still waiting for help.
What to say when you call legal aid
"Hi. I have a legal problem with (housing, benefits, debt)."
"I live in (county), and my court date is (date)."
"Can you help, or tell me who can?"
Bring a folder
Keep every paper in one folder, in date order. It helps a lawyer help you faster.
What are my rights as a tenant?
In Michigan, a landlord has to go through the court to evict you. If you get court papers, go to your hearing.
Michigan Legal Help has guides on leases, eviction and security deposits.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://michiganlegalhelp.org/
Questions about what a landlord can charge? Check the official page below. If something doesn't seem right, Michigan Legal Help or legal aid can help you figure out next steps.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-554-602
Who can help in my area?
Legal aid offices help people with low incomes with civil legal problems, like housing and benefits. The Legal Aid and Defender Association serves Detroit.
Lakeshore Legal Aid serves Southeast Michigan. Legal Aid of Western Michigan serves the west side of the state. United Community Housing Coalition helps Detroit tenants. Their details are later in this guide.
Papers to bring to legal aid
What if I'm being treated unfairly?
Think you were treated differently in housing or work because of your race, religion, disability, sex or because you have children? The Michigan Department of Civil Rights investigates and resolves discrimination complaints.
You can also report housing discrimination to HUD.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.michigan.gov/mdcr
Say you got eviction papers in Detroit
You'd write down your court date and call the United Community Housing Coalition or the Legal Aid and Defender Association. You'd bring your lease, rent receipts and the papers to your hearing. You'd also ask MDHHS about State Emergency Relief for back rent.
Questions people ask a lot
Do I have to pay for legal aid?
Ask each office about costs and who they serve.
What if I miss my court date?
Call the court and legal aid right away.
Can I get help with a criminal record?
Michigan Legal Help has information about clearing records.
Questions about a security deposit?
Check the official page below, or ask Michigan Legal Help.
What if I don't speak English well?
Ask the court and legal aid for an interpreter.
You have rights
Knowing your rights is powerful. Reaching out for help is a strong step.
How do I make the most of each call?
Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.
- Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
- Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
- Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
- Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
- Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
- Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
Keep going, friend
If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.
What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?
A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.
- Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
- Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
- If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
- Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
- If a state agency denies you, the letter should tell you how to ask for a hearing and the deadline. Read it right away, and call legal aid if you need help.
- Dial 211 any time to look for other options near you.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
Here is help that works across Michigan, then legal help in the biggest counties, then an MDHHS office list for other counties. Call ahead for hours.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
HUD: report housing discrimination
What it offers If you think you were treated unfairly when renting or buying a home, you can file a complaint with HUD.
How to reach Start online at https://www.hud.gov/contactus/file-complaint
Source https://www.hud.gov/contactus/file-complaint
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Michigan
Here are some places to start.
Michigan Legal Help
What it offers No cost self help tools and articles for Michigan legal problems, including leases, eviction, security deposits, subsidized housing and foreclosure.
How to reach Start at https://michiganlegalhelp.org/ Housing help: https://michiganlegalhelp.org/resources/housing
Source https://michiganlegalhelp.org/ and https://michiganlegalhelp.org/resources/housing
Last checked October 22, 2026
Michigan Department of Civil Rights
What it offers Takes complaints of discrimination. Offices are open by appointment only.
How to reach Call 800.482.3604 or use the online form at https://www.michigan.gov/mdcr
Source https://www.michigan.gov/mdcr
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS county offices and customer service
What it offers The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) runs Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief, Medicaid and child care help through an office in every county. You can apply online at MI Bridges or at any county office.
How to reach Call MDHHS at 844.464.3447, or use the county directory to find your office.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Wayne County (Detroit)
Here are some places to start.
United Community Housing Coalition (Detroit)
What it offers Helps Detroit residents avoid eviction, foreclosure and homelessness.
How to reach Eviction Defense Helpline: 313.725.4646. Main line: 313.963.3310, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.uchcdetroit.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Legal Aid and Defender Association (Detroit)
What it offers No cost legal help, including help to prevent eviction and remove barriers to housing and work.
How to reach For legal help, call 313.967.5800. 7650 Second Ave., Suite 120, Detroit, MI 48202.
Source https://ladadetroit.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Lakeshore Legal Aid
What it offers No cost civil legal help for people who qualify, including family law clinics.
How to reach Call 888.783.8190 and ask whether it serves your county.
Source https://lakeshorelegalaid.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Oakland County (Pontiac and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Lakeshore Legal Aid
What it offers No cost civil legal help for people who qualify, including family law clinics.
How to reach Call 888.783.8190 and ask whether it serves your county.
Source https://lakeshorelegalaid.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Macomb County (Clinton Township and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Lakeshore Legal Aid
What it offers No cost civil legal help for people who qualify, including family law clinics.
How to reach Call 888.783.8190 and ask whether it serves your county.
Source https://lakeshorelegalaid.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Kent County (Grand Rapids)
Here are some places to start.
Legal Aid of Western Michigan
What it offers No cost legal advice and representation in housing, family, consumer and government benefits cases.
How to reach Grand Rapids office: 25 Division Ave. S., Suite 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Online at https://lawestmi.org/
Source https://lawestmi.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Other counties (call your MDHHS county office)
Here are some places to start.
MDHHS Bay County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Bay County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 1399 W. Center Rd., Essexville. Call 989.895.2100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Berrien County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Berrien County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 401 Eighth St., Benton Harbor. Call 269.934.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Calhoun County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Calhoun County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 190 E. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek. Call 269.966.1284. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Chippewa County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Chippewa County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 463 East 3 Mile Rd., Sault Ste. Marie. Call 906.635.4100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Genesee County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Genesee County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 125 E. Union St., 7th Floor, Flint. Call 810.760.2202. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Grand Traverse County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Grand Traverse County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 701 S. Elmwood, Ste. 19, Traverse City. Call 231.941.3900. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Ingham County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Ingham County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 5303 S. Cedar St., Lansing. Call 844.464.3447. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Jackson County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Jackson County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 301 E. Louis Glick Hwy., Jackson. Call 517.780.7400. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Kalamazoo County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Kalamazoo County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 427 E. Alcott St., Kalamazoo. Call 269.337.4900. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Livingston County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Livingston County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 2300 E. Grand River, Ste. 1, Howell. Call 517.548.0200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Marquette County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Marquette County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 234 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette. Call 906.228.9691. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Monroe County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Monroe County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 903 S. Telegraph, Ste. A, Monroe. Call 734.243.7200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Muskegon County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Muskegon County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 2700 Baker St., Muskegon Heights. Call 231.733.3700. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Ottawa County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Ottawa County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 12185 James St., Ste. 200, Holland. Call 616.394.7200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Saginaw County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Saginaw County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 411 E. Genesee, Saginaw. Call 989.758.1100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS St. Clair County office
What it offers The state benefits office for St. Clair County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 1430 Military St., Suite 4, Port Huron. Call 810.966.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Washtenaw County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Washtenaw County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 22 Center St., Ypsilanti. Call 734.481.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Papers to bring to legal aid
My legal plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My next steps
Calls I made today
My call log
Write down every call. It helps you keep track, follow up and remember what people told you.
Call 1
Call 2
Call 3
Key numbers to keep
You're doing the right thing
Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Affordable living. Simplified
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