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Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas highlights expanded exemptions and benefits available to veterans and their surviving spouses
This Veterans Day, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is reminding veterans and their families about expanded Illinois property tax exemptions that provide financial relief in recognition of their service
Recent changes to the Illinois Property Tax Code exempt all World War II veterans from property taxes on their primary residences, regardless of disability status.
The exemption also covers unmarried surviving spouses of World War II veterans whose deaths were service-related.
“Veterans answered our nation’s call when their country needed them. Providing property tax relief is one way we can recognize their service and help ensure financial stability for veterans and their families,” Pappas said.
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may also qualify for property tax reductions based on federally certified disability ratings:
- 30% to 49%: $2,500 reduction in equalized assessed valuation (EAV).
- 50% to 69%: $5,000 reduction in EAV.
- 70% or higher: 100% exemption on up to $250,000 of EAV.
Pappas also noted several important requirements:
- The COVID-era automatic renewal provision has ended. Veterans must reapply annually unless declared 100% disabled.
- Eligible surviving spouses may retain the exemption or transfer it to another primary residence, subject to eligibility requirements.
Detailed eligibility information is available at cookcountytreasurer.com.
“Honoring our veterans means more than expressing gratitude. It also means making sure they and their families know about available benefits,” Pappas said. “I encourage every veteran and surviving spouse to check their eligibility and take advantage of the property tax relief provided under Illinois law.”
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