Hello Township Friends!

THE SENIOR CITIZEN REAL ESTATE TAX DEFFERAL PROGRAM

The Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral program is a tax-relief program that works like a loan. It allows qualified seniors to defer a maximum of $7,500 per tax year (this includes 1st and 2nd installments) on their primary home. The loan from the State of Illinois is paid when the property is sold, or upon the death of the participant.

NOTE: Last day to file for Tax Year 2025 is March 1, 2026.  Per state law, there are no time extensions.

FIRST INSTALLMENT TAX BILLS DUE APRIL 1, 2026

Your First Installment Property Tax bill is an estimated tax bill. You can calculate your first installment property tax bill as 55% of the previous year’s total tax bill. To find out your total property taxes paid in 2025, visit the Cook County Treasurer’s website.

CIVIC CENTER AUTHORITY REACHES AGREEMENT WITH COMMUNITY CENTER

The River Forest Civic Center Authority (“Authority”) announced it has reached an agreement with the River Forest Community Center (“Community Center”) on an amended lease that will allow the Community Center to continue its early childhood learning and recreational programming at the building located at 8020 Madison Street, River Forest, through 2029.

SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH – DONATE HYGIENE ITEMS BY FEBRUARY 28

Help the Oak Park and River Forest Township Youth and Family Services Department fill their Youth Hygiene Closet, which provides youth in need with essential personal care items to help manage their hygiene and health. Drop off items at the River Forest Public Library lobby or order from the online wish list. 

COMPLIMENTARY TAX PREPARATION SERVICE FOR SENIORS

Triton College's Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is offering Free Tax Assistance for households with older adults earning less than $69,000/year.

River Forest Township, in coordination with Triton Community College, will have appointments at our building in Room 202 on Fridays February 20 to April 10 from 9:30A-12:30P. Advanced registration with an appointment is required by calling 708-456-0300 x3895.

Other locations: Triton College- River Grove, Melrose Park Public Library, Proviso Township Office-Hillside, Lagrange Public Library, Elmwood Park Public Library.   

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Each year, the Township Officials of Illinois Scholarship Fund awards funds to graduating high school seniors to continue their education at Illinois colleges / universities. If you have a graduating senior who is going to attend an Illinois school in Fall 2026, there will be seven (7) awards of $2,000 each.

HELP WITH YOUR NICOR UTILITY BILLS

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying families manage heating bills during the winter season. Don’t wait—LIHEAP funds are available until they’re exhausted. River Forest residents can contact Township Supervisor Becvar for more information.