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1. Are there any exemptions that provide property tax relief?

A brief description of the available property tax exemptions in Illinois, including exemption applications can be found on the Chief County Assessment Office (CCAO) page. You can also sign up at the CCAO office located at 112 E Second Street in Dixon. For more information contact the CCAO.

2. I believe my assessment is too high. What should I do?

Contact your Township Assessor or contact the Chief County Assessment Office (CCAO) for more information. Depending upon the time of year, it is possible you will need to file an appeal to the Lee County Board of Review. The Board of Review rules provide additional information on the types of evidence required to support your over-assessment argument, such as appeals based upon:

• Assessment equity
• Fair cash value
• Incorrect physical description of the property
• Matters of law

3. I would like more information about my property assessment or assessments in my neighborhood. Is this information available?

Yes. Property record information, including assessed values and property characteristics such as square footage, age, lot size, etc. are available in the County Assessment Office.

4. How do I change the mailing address on my tax bill?

The Lee County Treasurer’s Office is responsible for updating address changes. Complete the Change of Address Form (PDF) and return it to:
Lee County Treasurer
P.O. Box 328
Dixon, IL 61021

5. I have received an assessment notice in the mail. What does this mean to me?

The Illinois Property Tax Code requires assessment officials to mail assessment notices to taxpayers if their property has received an individual change in their assessment. It does not require a notice if the change was due to an equalization factor, sometimes known as a township multiplier. It is your responsibility to review the notice for assessment accuracy. Residential, commercial and industrial properties should be assessed at 33 1/3% of fair cash value. If you have any questions regarding the notice, contact your Township Assessor or contact the County Assessment Office.

6. How can I get a duplicate copy of my tax bill?

You may obtain a duplicate copy of your tax bill by contacting the Lee County Treasurer's Office.

7. What are township equalization factors (sometimes called multipliers) - and how are they determined?

Equalization is the application of a uniform percentage increase or decrease to assessed values of various areas or classes of property to bring assessments on average, to the statutory level of assessment of 33 1/3%. Both local assessment officials and the Illinois (IL) Department of Revenue (DOR) are responsible for equalizing assessment levels. IL-DOR Publication 136 (PDF) gives a detailed overview of the property assessment and equalization process. Contact your Township Assessor or contact the County Assessment Office if you have any questions.