SPRINGFIELD, IL- State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) has introduced legislation aimed at making it easier for seniors across Illinois to maintain their property tax relief.
Senate Bill 2701 would streamline the Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption process by eliminating the need for eligible seniors to reapply each year. Under current law, many seniors must regularly verify their eligibility to continue receiving the exemption if their county board requires reapplication annually.
“This is about common sense,” Balkema said. “Seniors shouldn’t have to go into their county offices year after year to prove they’re not getting younger.”
The proposal builds on efforts already implemented at the local level, including in Grundy County, where officials have taken steps to reduce the administrative burden on senior residents. Balkema said his goal is to expand that approach statewide so all qualifying seniors benefit from a simpler, more consistent system.
If passed, the measure would allow seniors who have already been approved for the exemption to automatically retain it in future years, removing unnecessary paperwork and easing strain on both residents and local government offices.
SB 2701 has been assigned to the Senate Revenue Committee for further consideration.
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