Q: When are property taxes due in Kendall County for 2025?
A: Property taxes for the 2025 tax year are due in two installments: first installment due June 4, 2025, and second installment due September 4, 2025. These dates are set annually and may vary slightly from year to year.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: The primary tax credit is the General Homestead Exemption, which reduces your assessed value by up to $10,000 and requires annual application. Additional credits include the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption, Senior Citizens Tax Deferral, Veterans with Disabilities Exemption, and Disabled Persons Homestead Exemption. All tax credits require separate applications with specific deadlines.
Q: How does the Homestead Exemption work?
A: The General Homestead Exemption reduces your equalized assessed value by up to $10,000, which decreases your tax bill. This is different from a homestead credit that caps assessment increases. You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence and file an annual application. The exemption is not automatic and must be applied for each year.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Illinois law imposes penalties and interest on late property tax payments. Penalties typically include a 1.5% monthly interest charge on unpaid amounts, with additional penalties for significantly delinquent payments. Properties with multiple years of unpaid taxes may be subject to tax sale proceedings.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Kendall County?
A: Properties in Kendall County are reassessed every three years as part of the Illinois assessment cycle. However, the county may conduct interim assessments for new construction, major improvements, or other significant changes to property conditions between general reassessment years.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Property assessment appeals in Kendall County must be filed with the Board of Review during the specified appeal period, typically in summer months. You can appeal based on overvaluation, lack of uniformity, or incorrect property information. Appeals require supporting documentation such as recent appraisals, comparable sales, or evidence of property condition issues.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Kendall County offers online property tax payments through their official website. You can pay using MasterCard or other accepted payment methods. Online payments may include convenience fees, and you should verify the exact payment amount from your official tax bill.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Kendall County?
A: Property tax rates vary significantly within Kendall County because different areas are served by different combinations of school districts, municipalities, townships, fire districts, library districts, and other special taxing districts. Each district sets its own levy, creating unique tax rate combinations for different geographic areas.
Q: What happens if my mortgage company doesn't pay my taxes on time?
A: If your mortgage servicer fails to pay your property taxes from escrow by the due date, contact them immediately to resolve the issue. You may need to pay the taxes directly and seek reimbursement from your servicer. Document all communications and consider filing complaints with your state banking regulator if the servicer doesn't respond appropriately.
Q: How do I apply for the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze?
A: The Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption requires annual application and has specific income and age requirements. Contact the Kendall County Supervisor of Assessments office for application forms and current income limits. This exemption freezes your assessed value at a prior year level, subject to qualification requirements and renewal procedures.
