Q: When are property taxes due in Cass County for the current tax year?
A: For 2025 taxes, the first installment is due June 27, 2026, and the second installment is due September 5, 2026. Mobile home taxes are due September 5, 2026.
Q: What is the Homestead Exemption and how do I apply?
A: The Homestead Exemption is available to owner-occupants and reduces your property's equalized assessed value by up to $10,000. You must apply annually with the Cass County Supervisor of Assessments. This is not automatic and requires filing an application each year.
Q: Are there other tax credits or exemptions available?
A: Yes, Illinois offers several tax credits including Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze, Senior Citizens Tax Deferral, Veterans with Disabilities, and Disabled Persons exemptions. All require separate applications and have specific eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Cass County?
A: Illinois law requires properties to be reassessed every four years, though the county may conduct interim assessments for properties that have changed significantly due to improvements or other factors.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Cass County Board of Review during their designated hearing period, typically between August and October. You can also appeal to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board if unsatisfied with the local decision.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late payments incur penalties and interest. First installment penalties begin after June 27th, and second installment penalties begin after September 5th. Interest accrues monthly on unpaid balances.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Cass County accepts online payments by credit card, debit card, or e-check through their official website. Convenience fees may apply for credit card payments.
Q: Why did my property taxes increase if my assessment stayed the same?
A: Property taxes can increase even with stable assessments due to higher tax rates. Local taxing districts (schools, county, townships, special districts) may increase their levies, resulting in higher overall tax rates.
Q: How do special districts affect my property taxes?
A: Special districts like fire protection, library, park, or drainage districts add additional taxes based on your property location. Each district sets its own tax rate, and properties may be subject to different combinations of special districts depending on their location within the county.
Q: What should I do if I believe there's an error on my tax bill?
A: Contact the Cass County Treasurer's office immediately to review any discrepancies. Common errors include incorrect exemption applications, wrong property descriptions, or clerical mistakes that can be corrected administratively.
