Chicago and Chacabuco implement tax relief programs

The city of Chicago has launched a $500,000 pilot program to provide non-repayable financial assistance to residents struggling with property tax debts from the 2023 and 2024 fiscal years. The initiative targets homeowners in specific urban areas, including Englewood, South Shore, and the Lower West Side, to prevent tax foreclosures and public auctions. To qualify, applicants must use the property as their primary residence and have household incomes at or below 100% of the metropolitan area's median income.

In Chacabuco, the municipal government has introduced a Special Debt Regularization Regime. This program offers interest reductions of up to 80% for taxpayers and merchants settling debts incurred through June 30, 2026. Residents who pay in a single installment receive the maximum 80% interest reduction, while those opting for installment plans receive varying levels of relief, ranging from 70% for three installments down to 20% for up to 18 installments. The measure covers various municipal fees, including road maintenance, hygiene inspections, and urban services.