Property Tax Appeal Property Tax Motigation Specialist

Senior Citizens Exemption

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What is a Senior Citizen Exemption?

The Senior Citizen Exemption provides tax relief by reducing the equalized assessed valuation of an eligible residence. This savings is in the form of a deduction on the second-installment real estate tax bill.

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I qualified for a Senior Citizen Exemption. Do I have to apply for a Homeowner Exemption separately?

No. Senior Citizens receiving the Senior Citizen Exemption automatically qualify for the Homeowner Exemption and do not have to apply for it separately.

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I received the Senior Exemption on my tax bill last year. Do I have to reapply for the Senior Exemption this year?

Yes. State legislators passed a new law that states that senior citizens have to reapply annually for the Senior Exemption.

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What are the eligibility requirements for the Senior Citizen Exemption?

1. You must be 65 years of age or older during the tax year for which you are applying;

2. You must either own the property or have a lease or contract which makes you responsible for the real estate taxes; and

3. The property must be your principal residence. If you have moved or plan to move in the future, you may be entitled to a prorated Senior Citizen Exemption, based on the time of occupancy. To apply for a prorated Senior Citizen Exemption you must submit:

   • A Senior Citizen Exemption Application Form

   • A closing or settlement statement

   • Copy of a recent property tax bill

   • Copy of proof of age and residency

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For more information:  http://www.cookcountyassessor.com/Exemptions/Exemption-Forms.aspx