SPRINGFIELD – To make it easier for seniors to keep the property tax exemptions they are qualified for, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced a measure that would permanently remove the requirement for senior homeowners to renew their senior citizen homestead exemption.

“My aim is to simplify real estate taxes for our seniors, while also giving more residents an opportunity to benefit from this tax break,” said Ellman (D-Naperville).

Between 2019 and 2023, the requirement to reapply for the senior citizens homestead exemption was temporarily removed under a pilot program. Currently, in all counties in Illinois, apart from Cook, there is no review requirement to assess these tax exemptions. Senate Bill 2878 would permanently remove the renewal requirement and make reviews a permanent requirement for Cook County.

“This legislation will offer our seniors substantial tax relief,” said Ellman. “I look forward to advancing this bill to relieve older Illinois homeowners from heavy financial burdens – and paperwork – and keep them in their homes.”

Senate Bill 2878 passed the Senate Revenue Committee on Wednesday and heads to the full Senate for consideration.