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Exemptions, Appeals, Questions Answered!

Property taxes in Cook County change fast — and guessing can cost you.

With decades of insider experience in county government, private practice,

and real estate appraisal, we know how to protect your bottom line.

Own and live in your home?

You may qualify for the Homeowner Exemption — a property tax break that lowers your home’s taxable value by $10,000, saving most homeowners hundreds of dollars each year.

If you own and live in your home in Cook County, you may qualify for the Senior Citizen Exemption — a property tax break that lowers your home’s taxable value by $8,000, saving most homeowners hundreds of dollars a year. You don’t have to have lived there all year — the exemption can be pro-rated — and if you missed it before, you can apply for refunds up to three years back. When you apply, bring proof of age (65+) and proof you live in the home.

Born in 1959 or earlier?

If you own and live in your home in Cook County, you may qualify for the Senior Citizen Exemption — a property tax break that lowers your home’s taxable value by $8,000, saving most homeowners hundreds of dollars a year.

You may qualify for the Low-Income Senior Freeze — a property tax break that “freezes” your home’s taxable value so it’s calculated using an older, lower value instead of today’s. You must have lived in your home on January 1 for the past two years to qualify, and you’ll need to apply each year since it’s based on your current income. If you missed it in past years, you can apply for refunds up to three years back. When you apply, bring proof of age (65+), proof you live in the home, and proof of household income.

Born in 1958 or earlier with household income under $65,000?

You may qualify for the Low-Income Senior Freeze — a property tax break that “freezes” your home’s taxable value so it’s calculated using an older, lower value instead of today’s.

Disabled Veteran Exemption

American Hero with a DD-214?

If the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has certified your disability, you may qualify for a property tax exemption based on your VA disability rating. Savings can range from a few hundred dollars to over $30,000 each year, depending on your rating and tax rate.

If you own and live in your home, you may qualify for the Persons with Disabilities Exemption — a property tax break that can save you hundreds of dollars each year, depending on your local tax rate. If you missed it before, you can apply for refunds up to three years back. When you apply, bring proof you live in the home and proof of your disability.

Homeowner with a Disability?

If you own and live in your home, you may qualify for the Persons with Disabilities Exemption — a property tax break that can save you hundreds of dollars each year, depending on your local tax rate.

Mistakes happen — the Cook County Assessor’s data often contains errors that can lead to unfair property values. It’s a good idea to periodically review your own assessment and compare it to similar homes in your area. You have two chances each year to appeal your assessed value: 1. At the Cook County Assessor’s Office 2. At the Cook County Board of Review Each office sets its own opening and closing dates, and deadlines are strict — if you miss them, you’ll have to wait until next year.

Was your property assessed incorrectly?

Mistakes happen — the Cook County Assessor’s data often contains errors that can lead to unfair property values. It’s a good idea to periodically review your own assessment and compare it to similar homes in your area.

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