SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam supported a property tax relief package that increases property tax exemption thresholds for senior citizens in Illinois.

“Our seniors deserve to be supported – not worry about being priced out of their homes due to increasing property taxes in their neighborhood,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Through this measure, we are supporting our seniors by providing the necessary relief needed to ensure they are able to stay in our communities without a high price tag.”

Senate Bill 642 delivers critical updates to help seniors on fixed incomes and help families facing economic challenges manage rising property tax costs. Under the new law, the maximum income limit for the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption would increase substantially over the next several years, beginning at $75,000 for taxable year 2026, increasing to $77,000 for taxable year 2027 and settling at $79,000 for taxable year 2028 and beyond.

To address gentrification issues, it also adds an occupancy requirement, stating seniors must have owned and lived in their home for at least three years. This expanded threshold would allow thousands of additional seniors across Illinois to qualify for the property tax freeze – helping them stay in their homes and maintain financial security as the cost of living continues to rise.

The law also creates a new property tax repayment plan, giving counties the authority to establish structured payment options for homeowners with unpaid taxes. For the 2025 tax year, unpaid taxes would begin accruing interest at a reduced rate, providing taxpayers more time and flexibility to meet their obligations without facing harsh penalties. Counties are able to offer payment plans during the redemption period and waive interest penalties for participants who comply with their plan’s terms – making it easier for older adults to recover from temporary financial setbacks.

Senate Bill 642 was signed into law Friday.