Illinois lawmakers in recent years have passed significant changes to property tax exemptions benefiting veterans, including a historic provision for those who served in World War II. These changes underscore our commitment to supporting veterans in Cook County and beyond.
The Illinois Property Tax Code exempts veterans who served in World War II from paying property taxes on their primary residence, regardless of their disability status. These benefits extend to single and surviving spouses of World War II veterans due to a service-connected death.
Veterans with service-connected disabilities are also eligible based on the severity of their disability, as certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It is important for landowners to be aware of the exemption:
1. Standard Property Exemption for Disabled Veterans.
- People with a disability rating of 30% to 49% receive a $2,500 reduction in the equalization assessed value (EAV) of their home.
- Veterans with disabilities rated between 50% and 69% receive a $5,000 exemption.
- Disabled veterans rated 70% or higher receive a 100% exemption from property taxes up to $250,000 AVE.
2. Renewal and transferability.
- The automatic renewal of this exemption due to the COVID-19 pandemic has ended. Applicants must reapply for an exemption each year.
- Surviving spouses can keep the exemption or transfer it to another primary residence after the veteran’s death.
3. Request and information
- Detailed eligibility requirements and application procedures are available on the Cook County Treasurer’s website at Cookcountytreasurer.com.
- Veterans and their families are encouraged to visit the website for step-by-step guidance through the application process.
This exemption does not only concern financial assistance; it demonstrates our commitment to honor and recognize the service of our veterans. By expanding access to property tax exemptions, we provide stability and financial security to those who have given so much to serve this nation. These changes are intended to give veterans and their surviving spouses the benefits they deserve without having to reapply frequently.
As Veterans Day approaches, I believe it is important to reaffirm our collective responsibility to support those who, during this country’s difficult times, answered the call to serve.
For more information on property tax exemptions and to determine eligibility, visit my website at Cookcountytreasurer.com. Together, let’s fulfill our duty to honor and support our veterans.
