Property Tax Appeal Deadline Is Approaching! Feb 18 for North Chicago! A Successful Appeal Can Lead to Real Savings

Property taxes are a constant part of homeownership in Chicago, and in recent years, they have become increasingly unpredictable. One of the most effective ways homeowners can protect themselves is through the property tax appeal process. A successful appeal leads to meaningful long-term savings.

Over the years, I have seen how important it is to keep assessed values in check. Many homeowners assume their tax bill is fixed and unaware of the appeal process. Taking the time to appeal can make a real financial difference.

How the Property Tax Appeal Process Works

In Cook County, every property is periodically reassessed by the Assessor’s Office. That assessed value is then used to calculate your property taxes.

If you believe your assessment is too high compared to similar properties or current market conditions, you have the right to appeal it. A successful appeal can result in a lower assessed value and lower taxes, sometimes for multiple years.

One question I often hear is whether filing an appeal can cause your taxes to go up. The answer is no. If your appeal is not successful, your assessed value and tax bill remain the same.

How to Find Your Township

Appeal deadlines are set by township, so it is important to know where your property is located.

You can find this information on your tax bill, or on the Cook County Assessor’s Office website. Enter your address or Property Index Number, and your township will appear in the property details section.

This takes just a minute and determines when your appeal window closes.

Why This Year Is Especially Important

All Chicago properties were reassessed in 2024. While the initial appeal window for those values has closed, homeowners now have an opportunity to appeal for tax year 2025.

A successful 2025 appeal can:
– Lower your taxable assessed value
– Apply to both 2025 and 2026
– First appear on your 2025 second installment bill this fall

Given the recent delays in tax billing and shifting due dates, staying proactive right now matters more than ever.

February 18 Deadline for North Chicago Township

If your home is in North Chicago Township or South Township, your appeal deadline is February 18.

Missing this deadline means losing the opportunity to potentially reduce your taxes for the next two years. Even if you did not appeal in 2024, this window still gives you a meaningful chance to correct an inflated assessment.

Get Help Reducing Your Property Taxes

Over the years, I have worked closely with my go-to property tax specialist, Matt Panush, to help my clients keep their property taxes in check. We have partnered on hundreds of successful appeals, and I have seen firsthand how taking action on inaccurate assessments can save homeowners thousands of dollars.

If you live in North Chicago Township and are considering an appeal, I strongly recommend speaking with Matt. He is experienced, detail-oriented, and deeply familiar with Cook County assessments.

You can reach Matt Panush directly at:

Phone: 312.917.2320
Email: [email protected]

Matt’s firm, Worsek & Vihon, handles appeals on a contingent basis. There are no upfront fees and no cost unless the appeal is successful. Fees are based only on actual savings, and there are no charges for second-year savings. This structure makes professional appeals accessible without financial risk.

Staying Proactive About Your Investment

Property taxes are one of the highest ongoing costs of owning a home in Chicago. In my experience, homeowners who stay informed and take timely action protect their investment most effectively.

If you are in North Chicago Township, do not let the February 18 deadline pass without at least exploring your options. And as always, if you have questions about your home, your neighborhood, or how to protect your long-term equity, I am here to help!