information provided by the Cook County Treasurer’s Office
COOK COUNTY, Ill. (February 19, 2020) – The First Installment for Tax Year 2019 for Cook County is due Tuesday, March 3, 2020. The First Installment is always 55 percent of the prior year’s total property taxes.
On the front of every bill is a section called “Taxing District Debt and Financial Data,” which provides detailed information for each property’s taxing districts, Treasurer Maria Pappas said.
The total debts and liabilities of all local governments in Cook County have increased from $131.6 billion in December, 2016, to $157.1 billion in January, 2020, according to the Treasurer’s Debt Study.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my property tax exemptions?
Select Your Property Tax Overview at cookcountytreasurer.com and enter your address. Verify your exemptions now so that they will be reflected on your Second Installment tax bill.
When is the deadline to apply for the senior citizen tax deferral?
March 1, 2020. The Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral Program allows homeowners whose annual household income is $55,000 or less to apply for state-issued loans of up to $5,000 to cover property tax payments.
Does the Treasurer’s Office accept partial payments?
Yes. However, interest of 1.5 percent per month is charged on the unpaid balance, as required by state law. All delinquent taxes and interest for Tax Year 2018 (due in 2019) must be paid to avoid the Annual Tax Sale, which starts May 8, 2020.
Is there a new property tax abatement for surviving spouses of first responders?
Yes. The surviving spouses of police officers, rescue workers, and members of the military who die in the line of duty may be eligible for a total rebate on their City of Chicago and Cook County property taxes. Apply with the Cook County Board of Review.
More information is available from the Cook County Treasurer’s Office, 118 N. Clark Street, Room 112, Chicago, Illinois 60602, 312-443-5100. Office hours are Monday-Friday: 9:00am–5:00pm.
