This program allows persons 65 years of age and older, who have a total household income of less than $65,000 and meet certain other qualifications, to defer all or part of the real estate taxes and special assessments on their principal residences. The deferral is similar to a loan against the property's market value. A lien is filed on the property in order to ensure repayment of the deferral. The State of Illinois pays the property taxes and then recovers the money, plus annual interest, when the property is sold or transferred. The deferral must be repaid within one year of the taxpayer’s death or 90 days after the property ceases to qualify for this program. The maximum amount that can be deferred, including interest and lien fees, is 80 percent of the taxpayer’s equity interest in the property; limited to $7,500 per year. For Frequently Asked Questions please click here. Please contact the Treasurer's office by e-mail at treasurer@sangamonil.gov or call 217-753-6800 to receive an application. Applications must be filed with the Treasurer by March 1 of each year.