IL HB0158

Authorizes counties to establish optional homestead protection programs allowing county treasurers to pay delinquent taxes, fees, and interest on primary residences of eligible taxpayers using indemnity funds.

Limits eligibility to taxpayers whose primary residence is in the county and who would have qualified for property tax exemptions or deferrals (homestead exemption, Senior Citizens relief, Longtime Owner-Occupant relief, or Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral) but for failure to submit required applications.

Restricts assistance to taxpayers who have not previously received homestead protection program benefits.

Creates a lien in favor of the county treasurer on assisted properties for the full amount of assistance provided, with the same force and priority as judgment liens; permits the treasurer to release or subordinate liens if collection is not endangered.

Requires that homestead protection program operations maintain the indemnity fund at a minimum of 0.03% of countywide assessed valuation or $50,000, whichever is greater, to ensure availability for tax deed indemnity payments.