Q: When are property taxes due in Winnebago County?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: September 1st and March 1st of the following year. Taxes become delinquent on October 1st and April 1st respectively, with penalties applied after these dates.
Q: What property tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: The primary credit is the Homeowner Exemption, which reduces your equalized assessed value by up to $10,000. This requires application and is NOT automatic. Senior citizens may qualify for additional exemptions including the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption and Senior Assessment Freeze for qualifying low-income seniors.
Q: How does the Homestead exemption work?
A: The Homestead exemption reduces your property's equalized assessed value by up to $10,000, which lowers your tax bill. You must apply for this exemption - it is not automatically applied. The exemption applies to your primary residence only.
Q: What is the Senior Assessment Freeze and how do I apply?
A: The Senior Assessment Freeze limits assessment increases for qualifying seniors (65+) with household income below certain thresholds. Applications for 2026 (payable 2027) will be mailed around March 1, 2026, to prior recipients. New applicants can obtain forms from the county assessor's office.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Winnebago County?
A: Properties are subject to annual assessment review, though major reassessments typically occur every few years. Property owners receive assessment notices and have the right to appeal their assessed value through the county board of review process.
Q: What penalties apply for late property tax payments?
A: Penalties and interest are charged on delinquent taxes beginning October 1st (first installment) and April 1st (second installment). Interest rates and penalty amounts are set annually by state law.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Winnebago County offers online payment options through their official website. You can pay by electronic check or credit card, though credit card payments may include processing fees.
Q: How do special taxing districts affect my tax rate?
A: Your total tax rate is the sum of all taxing districts that serve your property location. This includes county, township, school districts, municipality, and any special districts like fire protection, library, or park districts. Rates vary significantly across different areas of the county based on these district combinations.
