it's tax bill time. In Will county, property tax bills were mailed out the beginning of May. The bill is actually for last year's taxes and is paid this year, a fact that might be a little confusing.

Dont ignore it. By law, half of the money must be paid by June 2, and the other half must be paid by Sept. 2.

With all that in mind, Will County Assessor Rhonda Novak wants everyone to know that there are some exemptions, meaning situations that actually can lower a property tax bill. And she wants everyone who is eligible for a tax break to get one.

"When you get your tax bill, look at the exemptions. They are on the right of the front of the bill", she said.

Make sure you have one of the three exemptions:

General Homestead Exemption,  which  each homeowner is entitled to 6000.00 for this year.

Senior Homestead Exemption, If you are 65 or older and own the home you live in, carve another 4000.00. and Yes if you are eligible for both General and Senior you get them both.

Senior Citizen Freeze, if you are 65 years of old and have an income of 55,000a year or less, you can have your assessment frozen. It's not automatic, and you must provide proof of your age. You also must apply for it every year, over and over again.

If you have any questions please contact the Tax Assessor's Office at 302 N. Chicago St, Joliet. They also provide series of seminars on completing the paperwork through May.