Lake County now accepting property tax prepayments

The Lake County Treasurer's Office is accepting prepayments for the 2017 tax year through Dec. 29. This could benefit residents when filing their 2017 income taxes. Before prepaying, it's recommended that taxpayers talk with an income tax professional.

Requirements/general information:

• The amount can be no more than the present year taxes.

• Checks can be brought or mailed to the Lake County Treasurer's Office, 18 N. County St., Waukegan.

• Prepayments must be in the Treasurer's Office no later than Dec. 29. Postmark not accepted.

• Make checks payable to the Lake County Treasurer.

• Note the PIN number on the check.

• Indicate Prepayment on the check. Note: Refunds will be given only if the taxes are less than the prepaid amount.

Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program:

Senior citizens may defer part or all of their property taxes on their personal residence if they qualify for the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral program. Application will be filled out by a Lake County Treasurer staff member using the information provided by the resident. The state requires all applications to be submitted by March 1, 2018.

Program information:

• Applicants must be 65 years old as of June 1 of the tax year claimed.

• Total household income must be $55,000 or less.

• This is a state loan with a 6 percent simple interest rate per year.

• The program may be utilized for multiple years for those who qualify.

• A new application must be filed each new tax year.

• Those that have a current mortgage, second mortgage or reverse mortgage must check with their lending institutions to see if they qualify.

• To learn more about this program, visit www.lakecountyil.gov/511/Senior-Citizen-Tax-Deferral-Program. For questions about prepayments, the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program, or any other topic regarding property taxes, contact the treasurer's office at (847) 377-2323, or visit www.lakecountyil.gov/treasurer.