Client: What's Going On With The Homeowner's Exemption And Cook County?

Cook County, What a Mess!
If you recently bought a property that you reside in (from Jan 2020 through December 2021), you are eligible to apply for the 2022 tax year homeowner's exemption. You probably have a calendar invite from our office that was in place beginning in January of this year and has now been moved back roughly 3-4 times. We apologize for this but we, like everyone else, are subject to typical Cook County bureaucracy!

Every year, that homeowner's exemption form is available in mid January for the previous year's homeowner's exemption. Remember, the first installment tax bill in Cook County is only 55% of the previous tax bill. The 2nd installment bill (due in roughly August) is the one that contains the exemption. So, if you bought from January 2020 through December 2021, you are eligible for the 2022 homeowner's exemption (rule is you must live in the property on 1/1 to be eligible).

Unfortunately, mid January came and went. We were then told March 1st. March 1st came and went. Now, our office was just emailed from Cook County and we were told late March or early April.

So, bear with us! We will keep you updated the minute the 2022 homeowner's form becomes available. We apologize for the delay and the constantly shuffling reminder. But, we are also subject to Cook County red tape, like everyone else!

As always, please continue to reach out and depend on us for all your real estate needs. We are an email away from a quick answer to your question.

Also, please remember about your own mortality. Our estate planning department can assist you and your family for your estate planning needs. This is an important subject matter that should not be overlooked. You never want to leave a mess for your heirs if you can avoid it. In 30-45 days, you can solve this issue for you and your family and protect them from the costs and delay of probate.

Wishing you wonderful Spring and we look forward to assisting you in all all areas of real estate and estate planning.