Finance Department - FAQs
What is the sales tax in Skokie?
The sales tax in Skokie is 9.5% on general merchandise and 7.25% on the purchase of a motor vehicle. The Illinois Department of Revenue collects and distributes sales taxes. The Village receives a 1% local tax share plus 1% local Home Rule Sales Tax.
What are the hours of operation for the Finance Department?
The Finance Department is open from 8:30 to 5:00 Monday through Friday. Village Hall will be closed on Saturdays during 2010. The Village apologizes for any inconvenience. A payment drop box is located in the parking lot on the north east corner of Oakton Street and Floral Avenue. Payments for Village of Skokie water bills, parking tickets and other non-moving violations and miscellaneous invoices may be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week online by clicking here.
What is the deadline for purchasing a Village vehicle license?
Current vehicle licenses must be displayed September 1 of each year. For vehicles previously licensed by the Village, a license renewal form is mailed around June 1 and the new licenses may be purchased between that date and August 31 of each year. Vehicles that are registered within the boundaries of the Village according to the Illinois Secretary of State records will be ticketed for failure to display a valid vehicle license after August 31. Vehicle licenses may be renewed online during the purchase period.
What information do I need in order to purchase a Village vehicle license or a pet license?
In order to purchase a vehicle license for a vehicle not previously licensed by the Village, you need to present either your State registration or a bill of sale. Key information from these documents is the vehicles make, model, VIN number, and State license plate number. You must present evidence of a current rabies inoculation and if applicable a veterinary statement that the pet is neutered/spayed.
How am I billed for water?
The Village charges a uniform water rate (effective October 2009) of $28.97 per 1000 cubic feet of water that flows through your water meter. The water rate is revised periodically by the Village. The minimum charge is $28.97 per three month period. You will be billed four times a year for three months of water usage. A postcard size statement will be sent to your billing address. You will have thirty (30) days in which to make the payment. Should your payment not be received by the Village in the thirty day period, a 10% late penalty will be added to your bill. The original due date and charge as well as the charge inclusive of the penalty is noted on your regular quarterly bill.
Can I pay my water bill online or automatically through my checking account?
Yes. The Village currently offers two options for electronic payments:
- Automatic Bank Payment allows you to pay your water bill directly through your checking account.
- Online payments for water bills, parking tickets and non-moving violations and miscellaneous invoices can be made by using Visa, MasterCard, Discover and debit cards.
Learn more about both programs by clicking here.
Can I receive a hearing date for a parking ticket over the telephone?
No. You must request a hearing in person at Finance/Collections window in Village Hall or by sending a request through the mail to the Parking Enforcement office. You are welcome to call Parking Enforcement to find the earliest date and times that are available at 847/933-8421. You may also file a contest of your ticket through the mail if you choose not to appear in person. You can only contest a ticket within 21 days of the date of the violation either by mail or by a hearing.
How can my firm be placed on the Village bidder's list?
Firms interested in being placed on the Village bidder's list should address a letter to the Purchasing Division, indicating the types of goods and services the firm can provide. The firm will then be solicited when the Village is in need of the type of item that the firm can supply.
What is the Village of Skokie's bond rating?
The Village of Skokie is currently rated AAA by FitchRatings and Aa1 by Moody's Investors Services.
Who can answer questions about my property tax bill?
Property taxes are both assessed and paid through Cook County. The Cook County Assessor can answer questions regarding the calculation of your property tax and handle appeals. The local number is 847/470-7237. The Cook County Treasure handles the collections and refunds of property tax payments. Please call 312/443-5100.