Q: When are property taxes due in Stephenson County for 2025?
A: Property tax bills are mailed May 16, 2025. The first installment is due June 27, 2025, and the second installment is due September 5, 2025. The final payment deadline is November 4, 2025. A 1.5% monthly penalty begins accruing on unpaid amounts starting June 28 for the first installment.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require applications?
A: The primary tax credit is the Homeowner Exemption, which reduces your equalized assessed value by up to $10,000. This requires an annual application. The Returning Veteran's Homestead Exemption provides a $5,000 EAV reduction for qualifying veterans and also requires application with income documentation.
Q: How does the Homestead Exemption work?
A: The Homestead Exemption is actually the Homeowner Exemption in Illinois, which reduces your property's equalized assessed value by up to $10,000. This is not automatic - you must apply annually. It does not cap assessment increases but provides a direct reduction in the taxable value used to calculate your bill.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Stephenson County?
A: Illinois law requires properties to be reassessed at least every four years, though counties may reassess more frequently. Stephenson County follows the state schedule for general reassessments, with annual updates for new construction and property improvements.
Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late?
A: Late payments incur a 1.5% monthly penalty that compounds each month. After June 27, unpaid first installments accrue penalties, increasing by an additional 1.5% each subsequent month. Severely delinquent taxes can eventually result in tax sale proceedings.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Stephenson County offers online payment options. You can pay online at stephensonil.devnetwedge.com from May 19 through November 4. The county encourages contactless payment methods.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Property assessment appeals must be filed with the Stephenson County Board of Review, typically within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. You'll need evidence supporting your claim that the assessed value is incorrect, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales data.
Q: Why might my tax bill change from year to year?
A: Your tax bill can change due to reassessment of your property's value, changes in tax rates set by various taxing districts, loss of exemptions, property improvements, or changes in the overall tax base within your taxing districts.
Q: What special districts might affect my tax rate?
A: Depending on your location in Stephenson County, you may be subject to taxes from school districts, fire protection districts, library districts, park districts, mosquito abatement districts, and municipal taxes if you live within an incorporated city or village. Each adds to your total tax rate.
Q: Where can I find the specific tax rate for my property?
A: Contact the Stephenson County Clerk's office or search online at stephensonil.devnetwedge.com using your property address or PIN number to find the exact combination of taxing districts and rates that apply to your specific property.
