There are several exemptions available to provide tax relief to homeowners. These exemptions either reduce or defer an increase in the equalized value of your property. The net effect of these exemptions is to lower the assessed valuation to which the tax rate is then applied. Eligibility requirements and application procedures vary for each program. You can verify your exemptions online or from your last tax bill.

The Chief County Assessment Office has authority to recapture taxable value in instances where property owners have received homestead benefits erroneously.

• Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program
  This program is designed to allow senior citizens to defer part or all of the property taxes on their personal residence. This program functions as a state loan with a 6% simple interest rate. A lien will be placed on your property with repayment upon death or sale of home. The program may be utilized for multiple years, if you meet the qualifications, but you must file a new application each year. Those that have a current mortgage, 2nd mortgage or reverse mortgage must check with their lending institution to see if you qualify. Your completed application must be notarized and returned by March 1.
  
  Applicant must be 65 years old as of June 1st of the tax year claimed with a total household income of $55,000 or less. Loan shall not exceed $5,000 per taxpayer per year. Property cannot be income producing and must provide proof of house insurance. The cumulative amount of the deferral plus interest cannot exceed the market value less the value of any liens. Taxes may be paid at any time without affecting the deferral status.
  
  Please contact the Lake County Treasurer’s Office at 847-377-2323 for a Tax Deferral Application or if you have any questions.
• Benefit Access Program
  The Benefit Access Program, formerly known as Circuit Breaker, is for qualified seniors and disabled citizens to receive help with transit rides and license plate discounts. For qualification information, you should contact the Illinois Department of Revenue.
  
  
  Illinois Department on Aging
  1 Natural Resources Way
  Suite 100
  Springfield, IL 62702-1271
  Phone: 800-252-8966
  TTY: 888-206-1327
  Email: [email protected]
  Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/aging/pages/default.aspx