Q: When are property taxes due in Pulaski County for 2025?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: June 1st and September 1st. Late payments incur interest and penalties, so property owners should verify exact due dates on their tax bills as these may vary slightly year to year.
Q: What is the Homeowner Exemption and do I need to apply?
A: The Homeowner Exemption reduces your Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) by up to $10,000 for owner-occupied residential properties. This is NOT automatic - you must file an application with the County Assessor's office. The exemption must be applied for initially and renewed if requested by the assessor.
Q: Are there other tax credits available in Pulaski County?
A: Illinois offers several property tax credits including the Senior Citizen Assessment Freeze, Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption, Veterans with Disabilities Exemption, and Disabled Persons Homestead Exemption. All require separate applications with specific eligibility requirements and deadlines. Contact the Pulaski County Assessor's office for application forms and deadlines.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Pulaski County?
A: Illinois law requires counties to reassess properties at least once every four years, though some counties reassess more frequently. Contact the Pulaski County Assessor's office for the specific reassessment schedule and to verify your property's current assessed value.
Q: Can I appeal my property tax assessment?
A: Yes, property owners who believe their assessment is incorrect can appeal to the Pulaski County Board of Review. Appeals must typically be filed within 30 days of receiving assessment notices. The process involves providing evidence that your property's assessed value exceeds its fair market value.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late property tax payments in Pulaski County incur interest charges and penalties as specified by Illinois law. Continued non-payment can eventually lead to tax lien sales. Property owners experiencing financial hardship should contact the County Treasurer's office to discuss possible payment arrangements.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Pulaski County Treasurer's office or visit the county's official website to determine current online payment options. Many Illinois counties offer online payment systems, but available methods and any associated fees vary by county.
Q: Why did my property taxes increase even though tax rates stayed the same?
A: Property tax increases can result from higher assessed values due to market appreciation, reassessment, new construction, or changes in exemption eligibility. Additionally, individual taxing districts within the county may increase their levies, affecting your total rate even if other components remain stable.