Cook County Property Tax Bills Set to Mail Amid Upgrade Delays

EVANSTON, IL — Cook County officials announced this week that the delayed second installment of 2024 property tax bills will be mailed on Nov. 14 and be due by Dec. 15.

The delay resulted from an upgrade issue in the county’s property tax system. Homeowners will have a shorter time frame than usual between receiving their bills and making payments. Historically, these bills are mailed out in July and due in August.

To expedite their requests, homeowners missing property tax exemptions can submit an Exemption Certificate of Error application at the Cook County Assessor’s Office in Skokie, located at 5600 W. Old Orchard Rd. While walk-in visits are allowed, officials strongly advise making appointments due to anticipated long wait times.

For assistance with these applications, Evanston’s Property Tax Assessment Review Office is available. Once approved, adjusted tax bills are usually mailed within two to three weeks, although this timeframe is not guaranteed.

The Cook County government has also formed the Homeowner Relief Fund, a $15 million initiative aimed at providing financial support for residents burdened by property taxes.

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas explained that the errors in the property tax system upgrade would have resulted in incorrect bills had they been issued earlier this year. As a result, residents were informed after significant delays.

Approximately 1.8 million property owners will receive their bills as developments continue. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle’s office has noted that these funds are crucial for local governments and schools, which rely heavily on property taxes for financial operations.