Depending on local tax rates, seniors who own and occupy their properties can save $160-$250 (in addition to hundreds of dollars in savings from the homeowner exemption).

For the 2008 tax year (payable in 2009), the applicant must have owned and occupied the property as of Jan. 1, 2008 and be 65 years of age or older in 2008.  Any exemption that is granted will be reflected on the Second Installment tax bill.

This program is administered by the Cook County Assessor's Office and requires an annual application to:
 

Cook County Assessor's Office
118 North Clark Street, Suite 301
Chicago, IL 60602
312.443.7550
 

You may find more information on these and other exemption programs at www.cookcountyassessor.com

If a taxpayer does not receive credit for an exemption that the taxpayer is qualified to receive, the taxpayer must contact the Cook County Assessor's Office to inquire about a correction through a "certificate of error."