The bill amends the General Property Tax Act to provide clearer guidelines for property tax exemptions based on poverty. It establishes that individuals who are deemed unable to contribute to public charges due to poverty may be eligible for a full or partial exemption from property taxes on their principal residence. To qualify, applicants must own and occupy the property, file a claim with the local board of review, and provide necessary documentation, including income tax returns or affidavits if they are not required to file. The bill also introduces specific income thresholds, including a provision for those receiving Social Security disability or retirement benefits, which will be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index.

Additionally, the bill allows local assessing units to extend exemptions without reapplication for certain years if there are no changes in ownership or occupancy status. It mandates that local units develop public guidelines for granting exemptions and requires them to implement an audit program to ensure compliance. The bill also clarifies that if a property was previously exempt, it may remain exempt for subsequent years if certain conditions are met, and it outlines the process for granting exemptions for prior tax years if eligibility is established.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 211.7