HB4249 Summary

• Amends the Property Tax Code to expand the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption to include disabled persons, effective starting taxable year 2014 for disabled persons.

• Defines "disabled person" as someone unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment expected to result in death or last at least 12 continuous months.

• Allows disabled persons to qualify for the assessment freeze homestead exemption if they meet the same criteria as seniors, including household income not exceeding maximum income limitations ($55,000 in 2008 and thereafter) and ownership or leasehold interest in their residence.

• Requires disabled persons applying for the exemption to submit proof of disability, which can include federal Social Security disability benefits eligibility or an Illinois Disabled Person Identification Card showing Class 2 disability status.

• Changes the exemption's title to "Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption" throughout the Property Tax Code section.