Reminders lead to savings for Kane Co. taxpayers

Kane County officials estimate that residents have had their property tax bills reduced by more than $750,000 total this year.

At least a portion of that is likely due to an insert in property tax bills that listed common assessment and exemption oversights, said county Supervisor of Assessments Mark Armstrong.

Since tax bills went out this month, 843 taxpayers have had their bills reduced, at an average of $900 each.

"When it's tax bill time, we have taxpayers' undivided attention," Armstrong said. "It's nice that we can have something to help them out at the same time."

The most common exemptions not taken are the standard homeowners exemption and the "senior freeze," which is available to homeowners older than 65 who have lived in their home for more than two years, Armstrong said.

Also common are errors on assessments, such as assessments that include amenities the residences don't have, like a fireplace or patio, Armstrong said.

Although that won't usually equate to a large reduction, it is something, he said.

"People should check their assessment," he said. "It's easier than ever to discover any errors."

Armstrong and County Treasurer David Rickert came up with the idea for the inserts this year because it was cheap -- just a few hundred dollars for printing and no extra postage, he said.

Last year, 373 taxpayers had their bills reduced.

Certificates of error, which reduce tax bills, can be applied for until Oct. 1. For more information, call the county assessment office at (630) 208-3818.

The first installment of property tax is due Monday.