Cook County Property Tax Bills Are Out. Check To Make Sure You Are Getting Your Exemptions

If you are a homeowner in Cook County, you should be receiving the 2nd installment of your property tax bill this week.  Like many other residents, you would likely want to see the tax amount reduced if possible.  One simple way to get a reduction is to ensure you are receiving the exemptions you are entitled to.  

The Homeowner's exemption (also known as Homestead Exemption) if you own your residence is given to property owners on their property tax bill.  Taxpayers whose single-family home, townhouse, condominium, co-op, or apartment building (up to six units) is their primary residence can save $250 to $2,000 per year, depending on local tax rates and assessment increases.

If you are over 65 years of age, you may also be entitled to the Senior Exemption or a Senior Freeze on your property taxes if your income is under the 

First, check to see if you have a homeowner's exemption by searching your property by PIN or address on the Cook County Treasurer's website.

You can also review the most recent 2nd installment of your property tax bill, it will list the exemptions at the lower portion of the bill and whether you received any exemptions for that tax period. 

Next, if you believe you are entitled to an exemption, you can obtain the exemption forms on the Cook County Assessor's website.  If you have lived in the property for a number of years and have not claimed the exemption, you can file Certificate of Error forms to request a refund for the Homeowners and/or Senior Exemptions for the years that you qualify.

Finally, if you are a new homeowner, you may not qualify for this year's homeowner exemption but put a reminder to file for the exemption next year.  This is also important for anyone soon to obtain the age of 65 so that they file to obtain the Senior Exemption.  

This exemption is not limited to Cook County or the State of Illinois.  Contact your local Property Tax Assessor or Treasurer to confirm that you are receiving all credits for being a homeowner in your state.

If you have any questions about tax and estate planning, please feel free to contact Glick and Trostin, LLC at 312-346-8258.

Disclaimer: The materials on this website are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  Transmission of the information is not intended to create, and receipt does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship between any attorney and any other person, group or entity. No representations or warranties whatsoever, express or implied are given as to the accuracy or applicability of the information contained herein.  No one should rely upon the information contained herein as constituting legal advice.  The information may be modified or rendered incorrect by future legislative or judicial developments and may not be applicable to any individual reader's facts and circumstances.