Senior Homestead Exemption

Benefit:

This exemption lowers the equalized assessed value of the property by $5,000 and may be claimed in addition to the General Homestead Exemption. Beginning in 2023 (payable in 2024) a change to the Senior Homestead Exemption amount will increase to $8000.

Qualifications:

To qualify, applicants must: 

• Be 65 years of age or older
• Own and live in the property as their principal residence

To Apply:

All applications must be submitted online through the Smartfile E-Filing Portal.  There is no annual renewal for this exemption. Applicants will need to provide proof of residency (ex. driver's license, state ID). 
You can receive assistance by phone or in person by calling or visiting the Chief County Assessment Office or the local township assessor’s office. To start the application process yourself online:

• Go to the Chief County Assessment Office Smart E-Filing Portal at assessor.lakecountyil.gov
• Log in to your account, create a new account, or log in as a guest
• Click “Available Filings”
  • EX01: Homestead Exemption Application (First time applications only)
• Click "Begin Filing" and follow the instructions

35 ILCS 200/15-170 

Properties Held in Trust

When you are applying for a new exemption and the property is held in trust, we must verify that the applicant is a current living beneficiary of that trust. The exemptions cannot be applied without this verification. Please include a copy of that part of the actual trust agreement which states that the applicant is a beneficiary. This can usually be found on the first few pages of the trust document. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us directly at 847-377-2100.