Cook County Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption
If you’re a Cook County homeowner aged 65 or older, you may qualify for the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption. This exemption helps reduce your taxable property value and can save you a few hundred dollars each year. If your total household income is $65,000 or less, you may also qualify for the Senior Freeze Exemption, which locks in your property’s assessed value.
What is the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption
The Senior Exemption is a yearly reduction in your property’s Equalized Assessed Value (EAV), which is the number used to calculate your property tax. It lowers your EAV by $8,000 each year, directly reducing your tax bill. While it doesn’t eliminate your taxes entirely, it makes a noticeable difference, especially when combined with the regular Homeowner Exemption.
Who qualifies
To be eligible for the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption for the 2024 tax year (which affects your 2025 property tax bill):
- You were born in or before 1959 (age 65 or older during 2024).
- You own or have a legal interest in the property.
- The property must be your principal residence as of January 1, 2024.
There is no income limit for senior exemption.
How much you can save
The exemption reduces your EAV by $8,000. To estimate your savings, multiply $8,000 by your local tax rate:
| Example Tax Rate | Savings |
|---|---|
| 3% | $240 |
| 4% | $320 |
| 5% | $400 |
According to the Cook County Treasurer’s Office, most seniors save $250–$350 per year from this exemption alone, and up to $750 when combined with the regular Homeowner Exemption.
How to apply
You only need to apply once. After approval, it automatically renews every year as long as you remain eligible.
Apply online
- Go to the Cook County Assessor’s website.
- Click “Apply Now” under Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption.
- Enter your Property Index Number (PIN) and ownership details.
- Upload a valid photo ID showing your property address.
- Submit your application and save the confirmation email.
Apply by mail
- Download the printable form from the same site.
- Attach a copy of your ID.
- Mail to:
Cook County Assessor’s Office
118 N. Clark St., Room 320
Chicago, IL 60602
Apply in person
You can also file at your local township assessor’s office, and they’ll forward your form to the County.
Renewal
Once approved, your Senior Exemption automatically renews every year unless you move to a new home or there’s a change in ownership. The Assessor’s Office mails a renewal postcard each year confirming your exemption has carried forward.
Combine with the Senior Freeze
If your household income is below $65,000, you may also qualify for the Senior Freeze Exemption, which locks in your home’s assessed value so future reassessments don’t raise your tax bill.
Summary
| Feature | Senior Exemption |
|---|---|
| Age requirement | 65 or older |
| Income limit | None |
| EAV reduction | $8,000 |
| Renewal | Automatic |
| Apply | Once (online, mail, or in person) |
| Typical savings | $250–$350 per year |
Other property tax relief options for seniors
Illinois also offers a Senior Property Tax Deferral Program, which allows eligible seniors to defer paying property taxes. This program does not reduce or freeze taxes. Deferred taxes accrue interest and become a lien on the property that must be repaid later. Learn how tax deferral works and when it may (or may not) make sense →
Illinois Senior Property Tax Deferral Program
FAQ
How do I know if I already have the Senior Exemption?
Check your latest property tax bill. Under the “Exemptions” section, you should see “Senior Citizen Homestead” listed.
What if I just turned 65 this year?
You can apply in the following tax year. For example, if you turned 65 in 2025, you’ll apply for the 2025 exemption, which affects your 2026 tax bill.
Do I need to reapply every year?
No. Once granted, the exemption renews automatically unless you move or your ownership changes.
Final tip
Even if you already receive the Senior Exemption, review your property’s assessed value each year. If your assessment seems higher than comparable homes on your block, you can still appeal. Exemptions reduce taxes, but appeals can reduce your assessed value itself.
About the Author
Harsha N Hegde is the founder at squaredeal.tax, a DIY platform that helps homeowners protest unfair property tax assessments. He has helped thousands of homeowners save money using comps-based evidence and practical guidance.
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