Q: When are property taxes due in Tazewell County for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: September 1st for the first installment and November 1st for the second installment. Late payments incur interest and penalties.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary tax benefit is the Homeowner Exemption, which reduces assessed value by up to $10,000. This requires annual application and is not automatic. Other exemptions may be available for seniors, disabled veterans, or disabled persons, but all require separate applications with specific deadlines.
Q: How does the Homestead Exemption work?
A: Illinois offers a Homeowner Exemption (not Homestead) that reduces the equalized assessed value by up to $10,000 for owner-occupied residential properties. This must be applied for annually and directly reduces the taxable assessed value, not the market value.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Tazewell County?
A: Properties are reassessed every four years, with the assessment based on market value as determined by recent sales data. The current assessments use sales from 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Q: How can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Property owners can appeal their assessment to the Tazewell County Board of Review. Appeals must be filed within specific deadlines, typically within 30 days of receiving the assessment notice.
Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late?
A: Late payments incur interest and penalties. If taxes remain unpaid, they are subject to tax sale, which occurred on October 28, 2024, for delinquent taxes. Additional interest and penalties are added by tax buyers.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Tazewell County Treasurer's office for current online payment options and accepted payment methods.
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Tazewell County?
A: Tax rates vary because properties are served by different combinations of taxing districts including school districts, municipalities, fire districts, park districts, and other special districts. Each district sets its own levy, creating different total tax rates across the county.
Q: What determines the amount of my tax bill?
A: Your tax bill is determined by the total amount levied by all local taxing districts serving your property location, including school districts, county government, municipal government (if applicable), and other special districts.