WESTERN SPRINGS – State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) reminded taxpayers that state individual income tax returns and payments are due July 15.

“The state has extended its income tax deadlines to help working families struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Glowiak Hilton said. “This extension has hopefully allowed taxpayers to take the time they need to recuperate after unexpected losses in revenue.”

Those who have yet to file their 2019 state individual income tax returns must act by July 15 to avoid penalties and interest. The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) estimates that 81% of state individual income tax returns have already been filed as of this week. IDOR recommends that individuals file their taxes online at www.MyTax.illinois.gov.

While IDOR offices are closed to the public, they can be reached online at tax.illinois.gov or by phone at 800-732-8866 to answer any questions.

WESTERN SPRINGS – As the state budget was signed into law, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) commended its focus on helping municipal governments cope with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As we begin to recover from the COVID-19 crisis, local governments will play a critical role,” Glowiak Hilton said. “This budget ensures that they are equipped with the funding needed to help struggling residents.”

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WESTERN SPRINGS – Property owners across the state may see lower property taxes thanks to a new law supported by State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs).

“Our recovery is going to take years, and reducing structural, long-term burdens like property taxes must be one of our goals,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Streamlining the approval process for tax exemptions will go a long way to help working families.”

Senate Bill 685 empowers county governments to approve 2020 Homestead Exemptions for those living with disabilities, veterans and senior citizens if their property was granted an exemption in 2019. Counties with under 3 million residents are also allowed to waive interest penalties and fees for late property tax payments in 2020.

The governor signed Senate Bill 685 last week and the legislation is effective immediately.

WESTERN SPRINGS – With students being away from the classroom for more than two months, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) is sharing mental health resources with parents to keep their children well during the pandemic.

“This is a scary and confusing time for many children,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Being away from their friends and teachers can have a negative impact on their mental health. Parents should know the signs.”

The Centers for Disease Control posted guidelines on how to recognize behavioral changes that may indicate they are experiencing a mental health crisis. Notable behaviors include returning to behaviors they have outgrown, excessive worry, irritability, acting out and avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past.

Guidance on how to talk to a child about the COVID-19 pandemic were released by both the Centers for Disease Control and the Mayo Clinic. Parents can ease their child’s worries by reassuring them they are safe, helping them find ways to connect with peers online and by teaching everyday actions to reduce the spread of germs.