Owning a home is exciting, but it can seem financially overwhelming at times, especially when property taxes increase. Fortunately, Certificates of Error are available to make it more affordable if you’ve missed exemptions in the past or overpaid on previous taxes.
Understanding Property Tax Relief Programs
One way to save money is to utilize all property tax exemptions that the county offers. These can be for senior citizens, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and even those who make improvements to their homes throughout the year.
Suppose you were eligible for any type of exemptions, including the common homestead exemption, and you didn’t receive them. In that case, you can file a Certificate of Error for a Cook County property tax refund. Applying for the past savings allows you to redeem savings from earlier years. Each exemption has its own timeline and guidelines, so it may be beneficial to work with a professional to maximize all available savings.
Additional Exemptions and Eligibility
There are additional exemptions and eligibility criteria beyond the homestead property exemption that many homeowners are unaware of.
Exemptions for nonprofits: Nonprofits that meet specific criteria are eligible for an exemption from property taxes.
Appeal reductions: Do you believe your tax bill is too high and doesn’t match your property values after receiving your assessment notice? In that case, you can appeal to Cook County's Assessor's Office or the Cook County Board of Review for a reassessment of your property.
Double payments: If you unknowingly pay your tax bill while your mortgage company does the same, you may be due a refund for a duplicate payment, which the Cook County Assessor's Office handles.
Exemption changes: If there's a change in your exemption value or a criterion isn't met, it may affect your tax bill. Make sure you’re eligible for exemptions through the Cook County Property Tax Portal.
Navigating the Appeals Process
It’s common for Cook County, IL, property owners to overpay on their property taxes and require special assessments because the county has one of the most complex systems in the nation. In the county, property tax trends and values are reassessed every three years between townships in:
Chicago
North and northwest suburbs
South and southwest suburbs
If you feel your tax bill is unfairly high relative to the value of your property, there is an appeals process. On the proper timeline, with the correct documentation and a hearing with the appropriate officials, you can obtain an assessment reduction and, in turn, lower your tax bill.
Taxpayer Rights and Responsibilities
As a taxpayer, you’re responsible for the payment of property taxes. You have the right to assistance and information, confidentiality and privacy, a fair and just system, and refunds where appropriate, among other rights outlined in the document.
If you choose to challenge your individual property assessment for residential properties, the first step is to determine if you’re eligible. If you are, you file an appeal with the Cook County Assessor’s office or Board of Review. Provide evidence and property details to support your appeal and explain why you believe the amount is unfair. You’ll then receive a final notice by mail.
Don’t forget the essential deadlines when challenging property tax bills. These are specific to the township and can be found on the County Board of Review’s website.
If you must pay your property taxes and don't have the money, there are helpful programs that allow you to pay in installments. Your first installment is a fixed amount, equal to 55% of the total tax for the previous year. It's usually due on March 1. Cook County's second installment property tax bills are typically due on August 1. If your taxes aren't paid, your home may be considered a delinquent property.
Practical Steps for Filing for a Refund
To file for a refund, you need proof of payment, such as:
Cash receipt
An online bank or credit card statement
Personal/business check
Letter from your mortgage company
You then navigate automatically through the treasurer’s website to determine your Cook County property tax refund status. If the treasurer’s office can’t choose who made the payment, you may need to fill out an application.
Navigate to the Cook County Treasurer’s website.
Click on Your Property Tax Overview from the home page.
Enter your Property Index Number or property address.
Once you’ve located your property, scroll down and click on “Are There Any Overpayments on Your PIN?”
It will display 'Refund Available,' 'Application Required,' or 'Apply Now.'
After the Cook County property tax overpayment refund application is approved, the refund will arrive from the Treasurer's Office within six to eight weeks.
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