Discover valuable property tax exemptions available to veterans in Cook County, including the Veterans with Disabilities Exemption and the Returning Veterans Exemption. Learn how to apply and ensure you're receiving the benefits you've earned.

In honor of Veterans Day, the Cook County Assessor's Office is reminding veterans of the property tax exemptions available to them, which can significantly reduce their tax bills. Assessor Fritz Kaegi emphasizes the office's commitment to supporting veterans:

“Today, we honor the sacrifice and service of millions of American veterans throughout our nation’s history,” said Assessor Kaegi. “Here at the Cook County Assessor’s Office, we are committed to assisting our veterans in any way that we can.” 
COOKCOUNTYASSESSOR.COM

The Assessor’s Office processes approximately 10,000 exemptions for veterans annually. If you believe you were eligible for an exemption in previous years but did not receive it, you can file for a Certificate of Error dating back to 2019. 
COOKCOUNTYASSESSOR.COM

Two key exemptions are available for veterans:

Veterans with Disabilities Exemption: This exemption is for veterans with a service-connected disability certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It reduces the equalized assessed value (EAV) on the primary residence of a veteran with a disability, potentially lowering the tax bill. Veterans who are 70% or more disabled receive an EAV reduction of $250,000. Veterans must renew this exemption annually, except for those rated 100% disabled and classified as “totally and permanently disabled” by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, who are automatically renewed once their status is registered with the Assessor’s office. 
COOKCOUNTYASSESSOR.COM

Returning Veterans Exemption: This exemption is for veterans returning from active duty in an armed conflict involving the U.S. armed forces. They are eligible to receive a $5,000 reduction in the EAV of their property for each taxable year in which they return and the year after. 
COOKCOUNTYASSESSOR.COM

To assist veterans, the Assessor’s Office will participate in two events this month, offering one-on-one assistance:

Tuesday, November 19, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: With Alderman Gil Villegas (36th Ward) at 6560 W. Fullerton Ave. Unit C118, Suite A, Chicago, IL 60707. Sign up for an appointment in advance at https://bit.ly/ccao1119.

Monday, November 25, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: With Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller (6th District) at 15440 S. Central Ave., Oak Forest, IL 60452. Sign up for an appointment in advance at https://bit.ly/ccao1125.

For more information about these exemptions and other available resources, visit the Cook County Assessor's Office website at www.cookcountyassessor.com/exemptions.

Footnote:

Information sourced from the Cook County Assessor's Office news release titled "Veterans Reminded to Check for Property Tax Savings," published on November 11, 2024. 
COOKCOUNTYASSESSOR.COM