FEMA ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE TO COOK COUNTY RESIDENTS IMPACTED BY FLOODING
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Residential property owners with severe flood damage are eligible for assessment reductions
Chicago, IL — Today, Cook County Board of Review (CCBOR) Commissioners George Cardenas, Larry Rogers Jr., and Samantha Steele shared how Cook County residents affected by the floods that took place earlier this year can apply for assessed valuation reductions. After facing historic flood damage, particularly in the Western suburbs such as Cicero and Berwyn, and neighborhoods of the city, many Cook County residents may be eligible for a reduction in the assessed value of their property due to President Biden’s August 15th disaster declaration.
At the Cook County Building downtown, CCBOR Commissioners provided information about the deadlines for submitting appeals, what forms are required — including the PTAX 245 form — and criteria to properly file an appeal.
“I am committed to ensuring that everyone who has suffered property damage from this historic flooding knows what their rights are, and what resources are available to them,” said Commissioner George Cardenas, Chairman of the Cook County Board of Review. “These forms and processes are in place to support the hardworking home and business owners across our communities who were impacted by these storms, and we encourage any Cook County resident who was affected to use the tools available to them to file for a reduction in the assessed valuation of their property and thereby reducing their property taxes.”
Residents whose property suffered flood damage can also apply to appeal right now by visiting the Board of Review website, federal disaster assistance website, by using the FEMA app, or calling FEMA at 800-621-3362.
“The impact of this flooding is substantial, and we want to help home and property owners however possible,” said Commissioner Larry Rogers Jr. “Many people may not know what assistance is available to them, or may not be familiar with the process of applying for an appeal, so we want to make sure they know that the Board of Review is available to assist. Whether they want to give us a call, or stop by our offices to speak with someone about the process, we will ensure that they have what they need to complete an application and file their property tax appeal.”
Along with the PTAX 245 form, residents will need to provide a description of the damage that occurred, the dates it occurred, the estimated date of completion of rebuilding, and any relevant documentation including photographs, insurance reports, building permits and occupancy certificates.
“The Board of Review is encouraging any resident impacted by this summer’s historic flooding to complete the appeals process,” said Commissioner Samantha Steele. “Our mission is to serve the taxpayers of Cook County, and we’re grateful to President Biden and Governor Pritzker for their support and efforts to open this process.”
Residents looking for further information are encouraged to check the website for more information.
City of Chicago and Cook County residents can apply for assessed valuation reductions today and until their respective township closes
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