Scherer Introduces Legislation to Simplify Filing for Senior Homestead Freeze

Rep. Sue Scherer
Decatur

DECATUR, Ill. – As part of her continued support of older adults, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, introduced legislation waiving the yearly reapplication requirements for the Senior Freeze Homestead Exemption (senior freeze) for taxpayers that meet low-income criteria.

“As we deal with the impacts of inflation, the senior freeze insulates certain seniors from rising property taxes,” said Scherer. “This bill makes it easier for seniors to receive this freeze, providing relief to many.”

House Bill 5730 provides that their house may be granted the senior property tax freeze without reapplication if the senior still meets the low-income criteria. This freezes a senior citizen’s property’s equalized assessed value and prevents any increase in that value due to inflation. Currently, senior citizens receiving the freeze must reapply for the freeze each year. House Bill 5730 provides that if a senior wants to reapply for the senior freeze, they simply sign a form with the county assessor to enable the assessor to check income with the Department of Revenue. This form only has to be signed once.

“I care deeply about our seniors, and we must do everything we can to protect older adults across our state,” said Scherer. “Making it easier for seniors to access this form of property tax relief is an important way to support seniors during these difficult times.”

Scherer represents areas of Sangamon, Macon and Christian counties. For more information, please contact her full time constituent service office at 217-877-9636 or staterepsue@gmail.com