Harper Spotlights Program to Repay Overdue Taxes

CHICAGO – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, is spotlighting an Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) tax amnesty program that is offering local taxpayers the opportunity to eliminate delinquent taxes that may be owed to the state without penalty.

“The burden of an outstanding tax debt weighs not only on that individual, but also on our economy because it can prevent otherwise eligible people from being able to make critical investments in their own life, such as purchasing a home or a car,” Harper said. “The Tax Amnesty Program gives local taxpayers the ability to make good on their debt.”

The Harper-backed law, Senate Bill 689, created the IDOR’s Tax Amnesty Program to give consumers and businesses the chance to pay back taxes without penalties and interest. To be eligible for the program, the tax liability must have occurred between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2018 and a taxpayer must pay their entire outstanding tax liability from the period covered by the amnesty. Additional information on liabilities that qualify for amnesty and payment options can be found at tax.illinois.gov.

“Anyone who owes overdue taxes to the State of Illinois should use this opportunity to pay back what they owe without interest or penalties,” Harper said. “I encourage any local taxpayer who may have a tax debt to check their eligibility and take advantage of the Tax Amnesty Program.”

Harper represents the 6th District, which includes all or portions of Armour Square, Bridgeport, Chicago Lawn, Englewood, Gage Park, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, New City, West Englewood, Marquette Park, South Loop and River North.