Q: When are property taxes due in Johnson County for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes are due May 10th and November 10th annually. If these dates fall on weekends or holidays, payment is due the next business day.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary tax credit is the Homeowner Exemption, which reduces your equalized assessed value by up to $10,000 annually. This requires an application to be filed with the Johnson County Supervisor of Assessments office and is not automatic.
Q: How does the Homestead Exemption work?
A: Illinois's Homestead Exemption (also called Homeowner Exemption) reduces your property's equalized assessed value by up to $10,000, not the market value. You must apply annually, and it only applies to your primary residence.
Q: Are there special exemptions for seniors or veterans?
A: Yes, veterans with disabilities may qualify for additional exemptions under the Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities. Senior citizens may qualify for the Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption. Both require separate applications with specific deadlines.
Q: When does the county reassess properties?
A: Illinois law requires properties to be reassessed at least every four years. Johnson County follows the state's assessment cycle, with the Supervisor of Assessments determining the specific schedule for different areas.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: File an appeal with the Johnson County Board of Review during their designated hearing period, typically in summer. If unsatisfied, you can further appeal to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board (PTAB).
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Late payments incur penalties and interest charges. The first installment penalty is typically 1.5% per month, while second installment penalties may be higher. Contact the Johnson County Collector for specific penalty rates.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Johnson County Collector's office to inquire about online payment options, as availability varies by county in Illinois.
Q: Why did my taxes increase when property values in my area decreased?
A: Property taxes depend on both assessed values and tax rates. Even if your property value decreases, taxes can increase if local government budgets (and therefore tax rates) increase, or if your property decreased less than the average in your taxing districts.
Q: What additional taxes might I see for special districts?
A: Depending on your location, you may pay for fire protection districts, library districts, park districts, or other special purpose districts. The fire protection levy (FMLR) rate is 0.050000% where applicable.
