Property tax relief for disabled veterans

More veterans will be eligible to receive relief from high property taxes under a new law backed by state Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, to expand eligibility for the Disabled Veterans Standard Homestead Exemption.

"Illinois has some of the highest property taxes in the country, a burden that is only amplified for wounded veterans, many of whom live on live on fixed incomes," Crespo said.

"The servicemen and women who have selflessly sacrificed in defense of our country should not be forced out onto the streets upon returning home due to outrageous property tax hikes."

As a result of Crespo-backed Senate Bill 107 being signed into law, the value of the disabled veterans homestead exemption will increase based on the severity of a veteran's service-related disability.

A veteran is now eligible to receive a $2,500 annual exemption for a 30-49 percent disability, a $5,000 exemption for a 50-69 percent disability and a complete exemption from property taxes for a service-related disability of 70 percent or more. Crespo's measure also ensures that mobility or accessibility improvements made to a property will not increase the assessed value for seven taxable years.

"We have an obligation to look out for the military heroes who answered the call to service during our nation's time of need," Crespo said. "By expanding eligibility for the Disabled Veterans Senior Homestead Exemption, we are able to help ensure that those who return from the battlefield with severe injuries are given the respect they rightfully deserve."

Senate Bill 107, now Public Act 99-0375, was signed into law Monday, Aug. 17, with an immediate effective date. Residents applying for the Disabled Veterans Standard Homestead Exemption or other property tax exemptions are encouraged to contact Crespo's full-time constituent service office at (630) 372-3340.