The Illinois Department of Revenue shared in a press release that it will offer disaster tax relief for residents and businesses in 15 counties, including DuPage and Will, after severe weather in July and August.
Qualifying counties
This relief applies to people in DuPage and Will counties affected by storms on July 27 and Aug. 9-11.
Governor JB Pritzker said in the release that waiving penalties may bring a much-needed break to Illinois residents across the state.
“This temporary tax relief will give Illinoisans affected by these storms the breathing room to focus on rebuilding their lives and getting back on their feet,” Gov. Pritzker said. “We will continue to show up for our communities and do everything we can to support our neighbors as they recover from these devastating storms.”
Illinois leads the country in tornadoes this year, with 204 currently confirmed by the National Weather Service.
How to apply for relief
Anyone wanting to waive penalties and interest on taxes must send a written explanation to the IDOR detailing why they are unable to pay. This letter should include the applicant’s full name, account number, mailing address and an estimate of when they will be able to pay their taxes.
This request can be submitted through email or by postal mail using the address on the return.
If someone seeking a waiver has already been billed for penalties, they should also email with their name, business name, account number and the period for which they filed late due to storm damage.
All communication to IDOR regarding relief should be labeled “Severe Storms – Summer 2026”. If mailed, this should be written in red ink at the top of the return.
Dealing with property damage
Anyone who experienced property damage should reach out to their county supervisor of assessments if they want to apply for reassessment.
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