Hernandez Backs Property Tax Relief for Homeowners, Late Fee Suspension

AURORA, Ill. – As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to create financial hardships for families, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, recently backed a measure that would suspend late payment penalties on property taxes and create a one-year application deferral to renew senior, veteran and disability homestead exemptions.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a lot of economic uncertainty on top of the already strenuous property tax burden that middle-class families face in our state,” said Hernandez. “By suspending late payment penalties and ensuring that our seniors, veterans and persons with disabilities can continue receiving tax exemptions, we can help provide much-needed financial relief to homeowners.”

Hernandez helped pass Senate Bill 685, which brings immediate property tax relief to homeowners by providing suspension of late payment penalties and tax sales. Additionally, the bill creates a one-year application deferral for seniors, veterans and those with disabilities who are currently receiving an exemption and would otherwise be required to go through an annual reapplication process. This bill passed both the House and Senate with bipartisan support and is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

“While we must do more to provide long-term relief from skyrocketing property taxes in our state, this measure will help provide immediate support for those most affected by the pandemic,” said Hernandez. “I am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to continue to provide needed relief to Illinois residents.”

For more information, please contact Hernandez’s constituent services office at RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.