A homeowner who cannot participate in any “substantial gainful activity by reason of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment,” can apply for the Persons with Disabilities Exemption. Exemptions reduce the Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) of your home, which is multiplied by the tax rate to determine your tax bill. The Persons with Disabilities Exemption works this way:

• The home must be owned and occupied by a person with a disability who is liable for the payment of property taxes on January 1 of the year for which the application is made.
• The homeowner must submit proof of disability, such as Class 2 Illinois Person with a Disability Identification Card.
  • A list of documents sufficient to prove disability is on the application.
• The property cannot receive this exemption in the same year it is receiving the:
  • Veterans with Disabilities Exemption for Specially Adapted Housing or
  • the Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities
• You may combine the Persons with Disabilities Exemption with other property tax exemptions for homeowners and senior citizens.
• The Persons with Disabilities Exemption reduces the EAV by $2,000.

To apply:

Cook County Assessor's Office

118 North Clark Street, Room 320

Chicago, IL 60602

312.443.7550

Due to a recent change in state law, those who receive the Persons with Disabilities Exemption will be automatically renewed annually.

Exemptions are reflected on the Second Installment tax bill. To check the exemptions you are receiving, go to Your Property Tax Overview.