Illinois Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities Program

If you own a home in Illinois and have a permanent disability, the Illinois Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities Program may help you save on property taxes. It lowers the taxable value of your home so you could owe less each year.

What is the Illinois Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities Program?

This program gives a tax break to Illinois homeowners who have a permanent disability. If you qualify, you can get a $2,000 reduction in your home’s assessed value—the amount your home is valued at for tax purposes—each year. This reduction helps lower the amount of property taxes you owe.

For example, if your home is valued at $100,000 for taxes, the $2,000 exemption lowers it to $98,000. You would then only pay property taxes on $98,000, saving you money. There are certain requirements you must meet to receive this exemption.

Am I eligible for the Illinois Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities Program?

To get this exemption, you must meet some basic rules. You may qualify if:

• You own your home and it is your main residence.
• You are responsible for paying the home’s property taxes.
• You were disabled or became disabled during the tax year you are applying for.
• You cannot participate in the Disabled Veterans’ Standard Homestead Exemption or the Disabled Persons’ Assessment Freeze for the same tax year.

How do I apply?

To apply for this program, you must complete the application for the Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities and send it to your Chief County Assessment Office. Find the County Assessment Office nearest you.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to apply online, by mail, or in person.

When you apply, you’ll need to send in your completed application along with documents that prove you qualify. These include:

• Proof of your disability
  (like a Social Security award letter, government disability benefits, or a doctor’s note)
• Proof that you live in Illinois
  (such as a state-issued driver’s license or photo ID)
• Proof that you own the home
  (like a deed or a past property tax bill)

What if I need help?

If you have questions or need help applying for the Illinois Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities Program, help is available. You can :

• Contact your local Illinois Department of Revenue office.
• Call the Illinois Department of Revenue directly at 1-800-732-8866 or 217-782-3336. They are available Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, and can help answer your questions and walk you through the application process.