Madison County Officials Highlight Senior Freeze Expansion As Income Limits Rise, Widening Tax Relief

EDWARDSVILLE — Officials are touting expanded eligibility for the senior freeze exemption after legislation signed Friday opened the door to property tax relief for thousands of Madison County seniors.

The new law, Illinois Senate Bill 64, amends the Illinois Property Tax Code to raise income limits for the exemption commonly known as the “Senior Freeze.”

Chief County Assessment Officer Jessica L. Dudley welcomed the change, saying the updated income limits strengthen a program designed to help protect seniors from rising property taxes.

“This is a welcome and much-needed update to a vital program that helps protect our senior citizens from rising property taxes,” Dudley said. “By increasing the income thresholds, SB 642 ensures that more seniors — especially those on fixed incomes — can benefit from the stability and peace of mind this exemption provides.”

Madison County Treasurer Mike Babcock said the expansion also brings greater predictability to household budgeting for older residents.

“For many seniors, knowing what their property tax bill will be from year to year is just as important as the savings itself,” Babcock said. “The Senior Freeze helps create payment stability, allowing homeowners to plan, budget and stay current without the fear of unexpected increases.”

Under the amended provisions signed by the governor, maximum household income limits will increase to $75,000 for taxable year 2026, $77,000 for taxable year 2027, and $79,000 for taxable year 2028 and thereafter.

The Senior Freeze allows qualifying seniors to lock in the equalized assessed value of their primary residence, preventing increases caused by inflation or market changes.

In 2024, 10,959 Madison County seniors qualified for the exemption. County officials expect that number to grow as the higher income thresholds take effect.

“This change reflects the economic realities many of our seniors face,” Dudley said. “It’s a step toward greater fairness and meaningful support for those who have contributed to our communities for decades.”

The Madison County Chief County Assessment Office will begin outreach efforts in early 2026 to inform eligible residents of the updated income limits and assist with the application process.

For more information about the Senior Freeze exemption or to check eligibility, residents should contact their local township assessor’s office or visit www.madisoncountyil.gov.

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