Will County Property Taxes Guide

Understanding your property taxes is essential for homeowners and property owners in Will County. This guide provides information on how property taxes work, payment schedules, exemptions, and resources.

Property Tax Basics

Property taxes in Illinois fund local services including schools, parks, libraries, fire protection, roads, and other municipal services. Will County property taxes are typically among the highest in the nation, though they're used to maintain the quality of local services and schools.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated

Illinois property taxes are based on:

• Assessed Value: Determined by the Will County Supervisor of Assessments
• Equalization Factor: Applied by the Illinois Department of Revenue
• Tax Rate: Set by local taxing districts (schools, municipalities, etc.)

The formula: Assessed Value x Tax Rate = Property Tax Bill

Will County Clerk - Tax Office

The Will County Clerk's office handles property tax billing and collection.

• Address: Will County Office Building, 302 N. Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432
• Website: willcountyclerk.com
• Phone: (815) 740-4637

Payment Schedules

Will County property taxes are paid in two installments:

First Installment (Estimated)

• Due Date: Typically June 1st
• Grace Period: Usually until early June
• Amount: 55% of previous year's tax bill (estimated)

Second Installment (Final)

• Due Date: Typically September 1st
• Grace Period: Usually until early September
• Amount: Remaining balance based on current year assessment

Important: Exact dates vary by year. Check the Will County Clerk website for current year deadlines.

Payment Methods

Online Payment

Pay online through the Will County Clerk website. Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and e-checks. Note that convenience fees may apply for card payments.

In-Person

Pay at the Will County Clerk's office during business hours or use drop boxes available at county facilities.

By Mail

Mail checks to: Will County Clerk, 302 N. Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60432. Include your property index number (PIN) on your check.

Mortgage Escrow

Many homeowners pay property taxes through their mortgage lender's escrow account. Verify that your lender receives and pays your tax bills on time.

Property Tax Exemptions

Illinois offers several property tax exemptions that can reduce your tax bill. Applications are handled by the Will County Supervisor of Assessments.

Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility: Primary residence owners
• Benefit: Reduces assessed value by $6,000
• Application: One-time application with automatic renewal

Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility: Age 65+ in the assessment year
• Benefit: Additional $5,000 reduction in assessed value
• Application: Apply during the assessment year you turn 65

Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze (Senior Freeze)

• Eligibility: Age 65+, household income under threshold (typically $65,000)
• Benefit: Freezes assessed value at prior year level
• Application: Annual application required

Veterans with Disabilities

• Eligibility: Honorably discharged veterans with service-connected disability
• Benefit: Varies based on disability percentage (up to $250,000 reduction for 100% disabled)
• Application: Apply with Will County Supervisor of Assessments

Disabled Persons Homestead

• Eligibility: Persons with disabilities
• Benefit: $2,000 reduction in assessed value
• Application: Requires physician certification

Will County Supervisor of Assessments

Handles property assessments and exemption applications:

• Address: 58 E. Clinton Street, Joliet, IL 60432
• Website: willcountyassessor.com
• Phone: (815) 740-4648

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property is over-assessed:

1. Contact the Assessor: Discuss concerns with the Supervisor of Assessments office
2. File an Appeal: Submit a formal appeal to the Will County Board of Review
3. Timeline: Appeals typically accepted during specific filing periods (check current dates)
4. Evidence: Provide comparable sales data, photos, or appraisals supporting your claim

Will County Board of Review

• Address: 58 E. Clinton Street, Joliet, IL 60432
• Phone: (815) 740-4655

Tax Sale & Delinquencies

Unpaid property taxes can result in tax sales and potential loss of property. If you're having difficulty paying:

• Contact the Will County Clerk's office immediately
• Inquire about payment plans if available
• Seek legal advice if facing tax sale
• Check for available assistance programs

Online Resources

• Pay Taxes Online: willcountyclerk.com
• Property Search: Look up your property information and tax history
• Assessment Information: willcountyassessor.com
• Tax Calculator: Estimate your tax bill using online tools

Understanding Your Tax Bill

Your property tax bill shows contributions to multiple taxing districts:

• School Districts: Typically 60-70% of total bill
• Municipal Government: City or village services
• Township: Township services and road districts
• County: Will County government services
• Community College: Joliet Junior College
• Library District: Public library services
• Park District: Parks and recreation
• Special Districts: Fire protection, sanitation, etc.

Tips for Property Owners

• Apply for all exemptions you're eligible for
• Mark tax due dates on your calendar
• Keep copies of tax bills and payment receipts
• Review your assessment annually for accuracy
• Budget for potential tax increases
• If using escrow, verify lender pays on time
• Consider appealing if your assessment seems high compared to similar properties