Most homeowners are eligible for this exemption if they own and occupy their property as their principal place of residence. The program is flexible.Participants may designate a new "third party" or withdraw at any time. Summary. In April 2023, Cook County prioritized three research questions regarding Illinois' homestead exemptions for further study. Apply for Exemptions. The Taxpayer Relief Act provides for property tax reduction allocations to be distributed to school districts through a "homestead or farmstead exclusion." You must withdraw the declaration using Form HS-122W.