Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has expanded the Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program, providing additional property tax relief for older residents across the state. The program allows eligible senior citizens to defer all or part of their property tax payments, helping those on fixed incomes remain in their homes. Under the expansion, the maximum household income threshold will increase from $65,000 to $75,000 for the 2025 tax year. The limit will rise again to $77,000 in 2026 and $79,000 in 2027.
West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging Director Vanessa Keppner said the change will benefit many seniors who are struggling with rising costs.
“Many seniors are living on fixed incomes and simply can’t keep up with the cost of living,” Keppner said. “Without programs like this, some could be forced to leave their homes.”
Keppner added that higher income limits will allow more seniors to qualify for assistance, noting that expenses such as home maintenance and unexpected medical costs can quickly strain retirement budgets. To be eligible for the program, applicants must be 65 years of age or older by June 1st of the filing year, have owned and lived in the property for at least three years, have no outstanding property taxes or special assessments, and maintain adequate fire or casualty insurance on the home.
Applications for the 2025 Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program open January 1st, with a filing deadline of March 1st, 2026. Required forms are available through local county collectors’ offices.