If you haven't already, take the time this month to obtain property-tax exemption forms - and file!

Even though the Treasurer's Office only prints and collects the tax bills and doesn't issue exemptions, we want you to file for exemptions you're entitled to receive - so that you keep your tax bill as low as possible. Exemptions can save you hundreds of dollars, even thousands of dollars, each year!

If you haven't received applications by early April, call the Assessor's Office or find the forms at cookcountyassessor.com.

Additionally, visit the Treasurer's Office website at cookcountytreasurer.com to examine the "exemption history" on your Property Index Number to see if you might have missed an exemption in recent years that you should have received. If you did miss an exemption in the last three years, you may be able to file and receive a refund!

Here are the most common exemptions.

Homeowner's exemption

• This is for the owner/occupant on the property that serves as the primary residence.
• This exemption is more valuable now, because it has been expanded to help shield against large assessment increases on many homes.
• Depending on local tax rates and how much the assessment increased, it can save you between $300 and $2,000 a year!
• So long as you qualify and continue using the property as your primary home, the exemption should be renewed automatically.

Senior citizen exemption

• This exemption is for owner-occupants who are at least 65 in the tax year, which means born 1940 or earlier for tax year 2005 (payable in 2006).
• Depending on your tax rate, this exemption saves about $200.
• You must apply to renew this exemption each year.

Senior citizen assessment freeze

• This is the most v aluable exemption, because it locks in the taxable value of the property.
• Over time, this exemption grows in value and can save the homeowner thousands of dollars a year in areas where assessments increase steadily.
• The qualifying senior citizen owner/occupant must have a household income of $45,000 or less and must have paid the taxes on the property the previous two years.
• You must apply to renew this exemption each year.
• You must apply to renew this exemption each year.

Home improvement exemption

• This program allows you to make $75,000 in improvements to your home without increasing the taxable (equalized) assessed value for at least four years.

We hope that you will be sure to file for any exemptions that you qualify to receive - so that the exemptions will be reflected on the Second Installment tax bills in the fall.

If you have any questions about exemptions, be sure to visit the Treasurer's and Assessor's websites or call my office at (312) 443-5100.

Maria Pappas is the Cook County Treasurer. Send your question to Count On Us Tax Tips, Cook County Treasurer, 118 N. Clark St., Suite 112, Chicago, IL 60602-1332.