What is the property tax assessment process in Illinois?

The property tax assessment process in Illinois involves several steps, and it is primarily administered at the county level. First, property assessments begin with the local assessor, who is responsible for estimating the fair market value of properties within their jurisdiction. Assessors take into consideration factors such as the property’s size, location, the condition of the property, and recent sales of comparable properties. Once the assessments are completed, the local assessors will notify property owners of their property’s assessed value. Property owners typically receive assessment notices that indicate the assessed value as well as instructions on how to appeal if they believe their assessment is inaccurate. It is important for property owners to carefully review these notices and understand their assessed value to ensure their property taxes reflect an accurate market value. If a property owner disagrees with their assessment, they can file an appeal with the county board of review. This appeal process allows for a reconsideration of the assessment. The board will review the appeal and the assessor’s work, and subsequently, they will issue a decision. Should the property owner still be dissatisfied with this decision, further appeals can be made to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board. After the appeals process, which usually takes place through the late spring and early summer, the county clerk finalizes the assessment. Once the final assessments are established, they are used to calculate the property taxes owed by each property owner based on local tax rates. Property owners can then expect tax bills that detail the total amount due. The entire property tax assessment process emphasizes transparency and gives property owners the opportunity to contest assessments they feel are incorrect. For further clarity on specific dates, requirements, or additional procedures, it is often helpful to refer to the current web page of the Illinois Department of Revenue, where comprehensive information is available.