Illinois Guide · Updated April 2026
With the highest average property tax rate in the country, Illinois homeowners benefit enormously from homestead exemptions. HOMES is open through DCEO and HEAR is waitlisted with high demand.
Illinois homeowners can access federal tax credits, state HOMES/HEAR rebate programs, and local property tax exemptions. Here is the current status of every major program as of April 2026:
Illinois HOMES program is accepting applications through DCEO
HEAR program has high demand — waitlist is open for additional funding
Illinois has the highest average property tax rate (2.07%), making exemptions extremely valuable
General homestead exemption reduces EAV by up to $10,000 for qualifying homeowners
Illinois HOMES program is accepting applications through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). Must demonstrate 20%+ energy savings with certified energy audit.
Official program page →Illinois HEAR program has high demand. Waitlist is open for when additional funding is allocated. Income-qualified households receive higher amounts.
Official program page →Reduces your equalized assessed value by up to $10,000. With IL's 2.07% average rate, this translates to significant annual savings. Must be owner-occupied primary residence.
30% federal solar credit plus up to $2,000 for heat pump installation (Section 25C). Both stack with state HOMES/HEAR rebates.
Official program page →We monitor HOMES and HEAR program status in all 50 states. When a program opens or a waitlist moves, you'll be the first to know.
No spam. Just alerts when programs change in your state.
Take our free 2-minute quiz to get a personalized estimate based on your specific situation — income, home type, family, and upgrades.
Start the quiz