Illinois FAQ

Where do I go to redeem my property taxes?

Property owners can redeem (pay) taxes that have been sold by making a payment in person at the Clerk’s downtown location or by mail. Make payments to:

 

Cook County Clerk’s Office
Real Estate & Tax Services Division
Cook County Building, Room 434
118 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60602

Hours: 8:30 am to 5 p.m. MondayFriday

What does it mean when my property taxes are delinquent?

If you don’t pay your property taxes by the due date, also known as the “penalty date,” the property taxes are considered “delinquent.” Everything owed —the unpaid taxes, interest, and penalties — can be sold at the annual public auction of real estate taxes, known as the “Tax Sale.”

What should I do if my taxes have been sold?

If your taxes have been sold, contact the County Clerk at 312.603.5645 or go to cookcountyclerk.com to learn how to order an “Estimate of the Cost of Redemption.” This is a calculation of the amount you need to pay to redeem the sale and remove the threat of loss of the property due to the sale of your delinquent taxes.

If there is a tax lien on my property; do I still own the property?

Yes, you are still the current the owner of the property. The purchase of delinquent taxes results in the placement of a tax lien on the property; if this lien is not cured within the statutorily-defined redemption period, the tax buyer may acquire title to the property via a tax deed. The property owner has several opportunities to pay (redeem) sold taxes in order to satisfy the tax lien and avoid losing ownership of a property.

Where do I go to redeem my property taxes?

Property owners can redeem (pay) taxes that have been sold by making a payment in person at the Clerk’s downtown location or by mail. Make payments to:

 

Cook County Clerk’s Office
Real Estate & Tax Services Division
Cook County Building, Room 434
118 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60602

 

Hours: 8:30 am to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday

How much do I owe?

FNA can provide an ESTIMATE of the amount owed if you call us and provide additional information about your property; however, it is best to obtain an estimate of redemption directly from the Cook County Clerk’s Office.