The old adage still applies.
The only things certain in life are death and taxes. Hoping that you are in good health, let’s focus on property taxes in Chicago and Cook County. You must pay.
Do I have to pay taxes if I’m in the process of filing an appeal?
There is a common misconception that if you are in the process of appealing your tax assessment, you can take a vacation from paying your current year tax bill. Sorry, you still must pay the bill.
Remember, when we file an appeal of your assessment, it is for next year’s property tax bill. You still have to pay this year’s bill. By the time you receive the tax bill for the second installment, you have missed the deadline to file an appeal. Even so, it still is possible to appeal the current assessment. Please contact this office for advice. In reviewing your case we may find a way to successfully appeal your tax bill.
If your property is being appealed to the Circuit Court, your payment must be made in full within 60 days of the due date. Otherwise, you sacrifice your right to appeal.
I didn’t receive a bill. Do I still have to pay?
Everybody must pay their fair share of property taxes in order to enjoy the services that our local governments provide. You have to pay your taxes even if, for some reason, you didn’t receive a bill.
Cook County issues tax bills in two installments. If you have not received the first installment by early February or the second installment bill by early July, call me or the Cook County Assessor’s Office or the Cook County Treasurer’s Office for assistance.