If you own property in Cook County Illinois, paying your property tax bill to the Cook County Treasurer’s Office is an annual requirement. This payment covers taxes owed to a range of local taxing bodies like schools, parks libraries, and more. Read on to learn your payment options with the Cook County Treasurer to pay your property tax bill on time and avoid any penalties.
Overview of Cook County Property Taxes
In Cook County, property taxes are levied based on the assessed value of your property. This assessed value is determined by the Cook County Assessor’s Office. Your property tax bill is then calculated based on the tax rates set by all the taxing districts your property falls within.
For example, if you live in Chicago, your property tax bill includes taxes levied by:
- City of Chicago
- Chicago Public Schools
- Chicago Park District
- Chicago City Colleges
- Cook County
- Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
So your property tax payment goes to fund these local government bodies and services.
Understanding Your Property Tax Bill
Property tax bills in Cook County are payable the year after they are levied. For example, 2022 tax bills reflect assessments made in 2021 and taxes levied for 2022.
Bills are mailed out twice a year:
- First installment due around March 1st
- Second installment due around August 1st
Or you can opt to make one annual payment by the first installment deadline.
The Cook County Treasurer mails bills to the address listed on file. Make sure your mailing address is up to date to ensure you receive your bill.
Ways to Pay Your Property Tax Bill
The Cook County Treasurer’s Office offers several convenient payment options:
Pay Online
Pay online at cookcountytreasurer.com using an e-check from your bank account. This incurs a small convenience fee. Credit and debit payments are also accepted online for a fee.
Pay by Mail
Mail your payment to:
Cook County Treasurer’s Office
P.O. Box 805438
Chicago, IL 60680-4116
Write your PIN number on the check or money order and include a copy of your bill.
Pay in Person
Bring your payment to the Cook County Treasurer’s Office at:
118 North Clark Street, Room 112
Chicago, IL 60602
They accept cash, checks, money orders, and credit/debit cards.
Pay at Chase Bank
Make cash, check, or money order payments at any Chase Bank branch in Cook County.
Pay at Community Banks
Many local community banks also accept property tax payments for Cook County. Check with your bank to see if they participate.
Pay on Time to Avoid Penalties
It is crucial to pay your property tax bill in full by the due date printed on your statement. Late payments face serious penalties:
- 1.5% per month on unpaid balance
- Possible tax lien against the property
- Potential property tax sale after 2+ years of delinquency
Setting up automatic payments or enrolling in e-billing can help avoid late fines. The Treasurer’s Office also offers payment plans for those struggling financially.
Other Billing and Payment Questions
For additional help regarding your property tax bill and payment options, contact the Cook County Treasurer’s Office:
- By Phone: 312-443-5100
- Online: Use their website contact form
- In Person: Visit their downtown Chicago office
Keeping up with property tax payments is crucial for all Cook County homeowners and landlords. Follow the steps in this guide to pay your bill on time, avoid penalties, and keep your property tax account in good standing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paying Property Taxes in Cook County
Below are answers to some common questions about managing your property tax payments:
How do I check the status of my property tax payment?
You can check your payment status online using the Cook County Treasurer’s payment search tool. It will show payments received and any balance due.
What if I lost my property tax bill?
You can download a copy of your tax bill using the Treasurer’s Office property search tool. You will need your PIN number to retrieve it.
What if I can’t pay my full tax bill at once?
You can request a payment plan to break up the total into smaller installments. Payment plans help avoid tax sale if you cannot pay in full.
Can I pay by credit card without a fee?
Unfortunately there are no fee-free credit or debit card options for paying Cook County property taxes. Online e-check is the least expensive option.
What happens if I pay my taxes late?
Late payments incur penalties of 1.5% per month on the unpaid balance. After 2+ years of delinquency, the property can be sold at the County’s Annual Tax Sale.
How can I avoid late fees?
You can have payments automatically debited from your bank account on the payment due dates. Sign up for automatic payments online through your property tax account.
What if I never received my tax bill?
It is your responsibility as a property owner to pay taxes on time, regardless of receiving a bill. Check your account status online or contact the Treasurer’s Office for a copy of your bill.
Use the Cook County Treasurer’s Office for Property Tax Help
Navigating Cook County property taxes can be confusing. But the Treasurer’s Office offers many payment options and tools to look up your account status. Be sure to pay your bill in full by the due date each installment period to avoid penalties. Contact their office if you have any questions or need assistance.
