Q: When are property taxes due in Clinton County for 2025?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: August 6th, 2025 and October 1st, 2025.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The General Homestead Exemption provides up to $6,000 reduction in assessed value for owner-occupied residential properties and requires application. Senior citizens 65+ may qualify for the Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption, which also requires application. Contact the Assessment Office at 618-594-6610 for applications and deadlines.
Q: How does the Homestead credit work?
A: The General Homestead Exemption reduces your property's assessed value by up to $6,000 annually. This is not automatic - you must apply through the Assessment Office. The exemption helps limit assessment increases for owner-occupied homes.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Clinton County offers online payment through GovPayNow, though a convenience fee applies. You can also pay by mail or in person at the County Collector's office.
Q: What happens if I pay late?
A: Late payments are subject to penalties and interest charges. Contact the County Collector's office immediately if you cannot make payment by the due dates to understand your options.
Q: How often are properties reassessed?
A: Illinois follows a quadrennial (4-year) assessment cycle, though the County Assessor may conduct interim assessments for properties with significant changes.
Q: How do I appeal my assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Clinton County Board of Review. Contact the Supervisor of Assessments office for appeal procedures and deadlines, which are typically within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice.
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Clinton County?
A: Your total tax rate depends on which combination of taxing districts serve your property, including school districts, fire districts, library districts, and municipalities. Properties in different areas may have different combinations of these districts, resulting in varying total tax rates.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax bill?
A: Supplemental taxes occur when there are mid-year changes to your property's assessed value due to new construction, major improvements, or corrections to the assessment. These bills cover the additional taxes owed for the remaining portion of the tax year.
Q: How do I verify my property tax payment was received?
A: You can verify payments online through the County Collector's GovPayNow system, call the Collector's office, or request a payment receipt. Keep all payment confirmations for your records.
