How to Appeal Property Tax Assessment - Aurora, IL

Taxation and Finance Illinois 4 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Illinois

Aurora, Illinois property owners can challenge an assessed value if they believe it is incorrect. The usual route starts with the county assessor and the county Board of Review, with a further appeal available to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board. This guide explains where to start, what evidence to gather, who enforces assessments and collections, and practical steps to file an appeal and attend a hearing. Deadlines and exact forms vary by county (Aurora spans multiple counties), so confirm county-specific filing rules before you act. For statewide appeal options see the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board.[1]

Overview

Property assessments are performed by the county assessor; tax bills and collections are handled by the county treasurer or collector. Aurora properties may fall in Kane, DuPage, Kendall or Will County depending on the address. The standard appeals path is: informal review with the assessor, formal complaint to the county Board of Review, then an appeal to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board if needed.

Start with the assessor’s office to request an informal review before filing formal appeals.

Penalties & Enforcement

Property tax appeals themselves do not typically carry criminal fines, but unpaid taxes, penalties and interest may be charged by the county treasurer and can lead to collection actions. The official pages cited below do not specify monetary fines for filing appeals; see county treasurer pages for penalties and interest rates.

  • Fines or fees for an appeal: not specified on the cited page.
  • Time limits for filing: vary by county; not specified on the cited page. Confirm county Board of Review deadlines early.
  • Enforcer: county Board of Review for assessment disputes; county treasurer/collector enforces tax collection and delinquency remedies.
  • Escalation: informal review → county Board of Review → Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: tax lien recordings, continued interest accrual, and eventual sale for tax delinquency (details set by county).
If you owe taxes while appealing, paying under protest may protect against collection while preserving appeal rights.

Applications & Forms

Counties publish Board of Review complaint forms and filing instructions on their official sites. The statewide body (PTAB) provides appeal procedures but the specific county complaint form names, numbers, fees and submission methods are published by each county and are not listed on the PTAB page. See the Help and Support / Resources section below for county form links.

Preparing an Appeal

Collect clear evidence showing the assessed value is wrong: recent comparable sales, independent appraisals, error in property characteristics, or procedural mistakes. Organize exhibits and a summary statement for the hearing.

  • Comparable sales and sale dates.
  • Independent appraisal or broker opinion of value.
  • Photographs showing condition or discrepancies in property description.
  • Copies of prior tax bills and assessment notices.
Submit evidence early and in the format the Board of Review requires to avoid exclusions at hearing.

Hearing & Appeals Process

After filing a county complaint you will receive a hearing date and instructions. At the hearing an owner or representative may present evidence and testimony. If the county Board of Review decision is unfavorable, a further appeal to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board is possible under state rules.[1]

  • Appear on the scheduled hearing date or submit written evidence if permitted.
  • Request a transcript or written decision from the Board of Review if you plan to appeal further.
  • Be aware of any filing fees set by your county; check the county Board of Review site for amounts.

Action Steps

  • Check your assessment notice and note the filing deadline.
  • Contact your county assessor for an informal review.
  • File the formal complaint with the county Board of Review before the deadline.
  • If denied, consider filing to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board.

FAQ

How do I know which county handles my property?
Check your tax bill or parcel record; Aurora properties may be in Kane, DuPage, Kendall or Will County. Contact the county assessor for confirmation.
Do I have to pay taxes while appealing?
Counties generally require payment of taxes when due; unpaid taxes can accrue penalties and interest. Ask the county treasurer about pay-under-protest or escrow options.
Can I appeal to a state agency?
Yes. After the county Board of Review decision you may appeal to the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board for certain cases.[1]

How-To

  1. Review your assessment notice and record the filing deadline.
  2. Request an informal review with the county assessor and gather evidence.
  3. Complete and submit the county Board of Review complaint form with exhibits.
  4. Attend the Board of Review hearing or submit written testimony if allowed.
  5. If unsatisfied, file an appeal with the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board following its procedures.[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Start with the assessor for informal review before filing formal appeals.
  • Organize comparables and an appraisal to strengthen your case.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board - official procedures

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data