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Cook County Property Tax Appeals – A Timeline Of The Process

Filing a property tax appeal in Cook County can reduce your tax burden, but the process can be confusing. Understanding the timeline and deadlines will help you file a successful appeal and avoid costly mistakes. This guide breaks down each step of the appeal process and what to expect along the way.<br>

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Cook County Property Tax Appeals – A Timeline Of The Process

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  1. COOK COUNTY PROPERTY TAX APPEALS – A TIMELINE OF THE PROCESS www.CookCountyPropertyTaxChallenge.com Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  2. COOK COUNTY PROPERTY TAX APPEALS – A TIMELINE OF THE PROCESS Filing a property tax appeal in Cook County can reduce your tax burden, but the process can be confusing. Understanding the timeline and deadlines will help you file a successful appeal and avoid costly mistakes. This guide breaks down each step of the appeal process and what to expect along the way. Highlights: Learn the step-by-step process for appealing your property taxes Understand key deadlines and filing requirements Discover how to maximize your chances of success Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  3. STEP 1 – REVIEW YOUR ASSESSMENT NOTICE (JANUARY - JULY) Each year, the Cook County Assessor’s Office reassesses property values based on a rolling schedule. ✅ Action Steps: Visit the Cook County Assessor’s website and enter your Property Index Number (PIN). Compare your assessment to similar properties in your area. Identify errors in square footage, classification, or construction. ? Important Dates: Reassessment occurs every three years by township. Assessment notices are mailed between January and July. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  4. STEP 2 – DETERMINE IF YOU SHOULD APPEAL (IMMEDIATELY AFTER RECEIVING YOUR NOTICE) If your property is over-assessed, you could be paying more than necessary in property taxes. ✅ Reasons to Appeal: Lack of Uniformity – Your home is assessed higher than similar properties. Overvaluation – Your assessment is higher than your property’s actual market value. Errors in Property Details – Incorrect property descriptions affecting your value. ? Action Step: Gather evidence such as comparable property values and recent sales data. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  5. STEP 3 – FILE YOUR APPEAL WITH THE ASSESSOR’S OFFICE (30-DAY DEADLINE AFTER NOTICE) If you believe your property is over-assessed, file an appeal within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. ✅ How to File: Submit your appeal online through the Cook County Assessor’s website. Attach supporting documents like recent sales data and property condition photos. Keep copies of all submitted forms for your records. ?Pro Tip: The more evidence you provide, the stronger your appeal will be. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  6. STEP 4 – WAIT FOR THE ASSESSOR’S OFFICE DECISION (4-12 WEEKS) Once you submit your appeal, the Assessor’s Office reviews your case, which can take 4-12 weeks. ✅ Possible Outcomes: Approved – Your assessment is lowered, reducing your tax bill. Denied – You can escalate your appeal to the Board of Review. ?Action Step: If denied, be ready to appeal to the Cook County Board of Review for another chance. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  7. STEP 5 – APPEAL TO THE COOK COUNTY BOARD OF REVIEW (AUGUST - NOVEMBER) If your appeal is denied by the Assessor’s Office, you have another opportunity to contest your assessment with the Board of Review. ✅ Key Differences: The Board of Review operates separately from the Assessor’s Office. Board decisions are based on comparable property data and income potential for investment properties. Appeal deadlines vary but generally fall between August and November. ?Action Step: Prepare additional supporting documentation before filing with the Board of Review. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  8. STEP 6 – WAIT FOR THE BOARD OF REVIEW DECISION (4-8 WEEKS AFTER FILING) The Board of Review takes 4-8 weeks to process appeals and issue decisions. ✅Possible Outcomes: Approved – Your assessed value is lowered, reducing your tax bill. Denied – You can appeal further to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board (PTAB) or Circuit Court. ?Final Chance: If denied, you have 30 days to escalate your case to PTAB or the Cook County Circuit Court. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  9. STEP 7 – RECEIVE YOUR UPDATED TAX BILL (FOLLOWING YEAR) If your appeal is successful, your 2nd installment tax bill will reflect the new assessment. ✅ If You’ve Already Paid: You may be eligible for a property tax refund for overpayment. Contact the Cook County Treasurer’s Office for details on reimbursement. ? Action Step: Double-check your tax bill to ensure your new assessment is correctly applied. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  10. FINAL THOUGHTS Navigating the property tax appeal process can be time-consuming, but it’s worth the effort if your property is over-assessed. Follow these steps to reduce your tax burden and save money: Review your assessment notice annually. File appeals on time with strong supporting evidence. Utilize the Board of Review if your initial appeal is denied. Seek professional assistance if needed. Taking a proactive approach can help ensure you only pay your fair share in property taxes. Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  11. NEED HELP WITH YOUR APPEAL? ? Need our help? The Law Office of John Zapala, P.C. is focused on property tax appeals in Cook County! Property Tax Relief is Here: ? Call: 312-890-1424 ? Visit: www.CookCountyPropertyTaxChallenge.com Law Office of John Zapala, P.C.

  12. Sources Cook County Assessor’s Office: www.cookcountyassessor.com Cook County Board of Review: www.cookcountyboardofreview.com Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board (PTAB): www.ptab.illinois.gov Legal Disclaimer The information provided in these presentations is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or tax advice. Property tax laws and appeal processes may vary, and outcomes depend on individual property assessments and local regulations. For professional guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult a qualified property tax attorney or real estate professional.

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