Tax debt can weigh heavily on anyone, especially when penalties and interest keep piling up year after year.

Many Americans put off paying overdue taxes because the extra charges make it feel impossible to catch up.

This fall, however, one state is offering a rare chance for a fresh start. For a limited time, eligible taxpayers can pay what they owe without facing the financial sting of added fees.


Illinois has just rolled out a “one-of-a-kind” tax amnesty program, and it’s making waves for all the right reasons.

From October 1 through November 17, 2025, the Illinois Tax Delinquency Amnesty Act is giving taxpayers a rare opportunity: settle up on eligible back taxes with zero penalties and no interest—as long as you pay in full during the amnesty window.

What’s the Big Deal About Tax Amnesty?​

Tax amnesty programs aren’t new, but they don’t come around often—and when they do, they’re usually packed with fine print. Illinois’ latest initiative stands out for its simplicity and generosity

If you owe state taxes from after June 30, 2018, and before July 1, 2024, you can pay what you owe without the usual financial sting of penalties or interest. That’s right: pay the tax, skip the extra charges.

This is a golden opportunity for anyone who:

• Missed filing a return during those years
• Made a mistake on a previous return
• Has been putting off payment because the penalties made it feel impossible to catch up

Who’s Eligible​

The amnesty covers most state taxes collected by the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR), but there are a few exceptions. Here’s what you need to know:

• Eligible: Taxes due after June 30, 2018, and before July 1, 2024, that are collected by IDOR (think: income tax, sales tax, and more).
• Not Eligible: Property taxes, estate taxes, local taxes, or any taxes not collected by IDOR.
• Other Exclusions: If you only owe penalties and interest (with no underlying tax due), you’re out of luck. Also, if you’re currently involved in a civil or criminal tax case, or under criminal investigation, you can’t participate.

How Does It Work?​

If you’re eligible, here’s what you need to do:

1. File the Right Return: If you never filed a return for a given period, you’ll need to file an original return. If you filed but made a mistake, file an amended return to correct it.
2. Pay in Full: The amnesty only applies if you pay the full amount of tax due during the amnesty period (October 1–November 17, 2025).
3. Keep It Organized: If you owe for multiple years or tax types, IDOR recommends making separate payments for each. If you combine payments, be sure to clearly identify the tax type, period, and amount for each liability.

Also read: Homeowners set to get $1,000 relief checks as new program launches—see if you qualify!

How Can You Pay?​

Illinois is making it as easy as possible to pay up and move on. Here are your options:

For Individuals​

• Online: Use your checking or savings account at MyTax Illinois.
• Credit Card: Available online, but watch out for a convenience fee.
• Check or Money Order: Mail it in or drop it off.
• In Person: Visit any IDOR office (cash accepted only in Springfield and Chicago).

For Businesses​

• Online: Through your MyTax Illinois account.
• Check or Money Order: Mail or deliver in person.
• In Person: At any IDOR office (again, cash only in Springfield and Chicago).

A Few Pro Tips​

• Never mail cash—too risky!
• If you’re unsure about your eligibility or how to file, reach out to a tax professional or contact IDOR directly.
• Make sure your payment is received by November 17, 2025, to qualify for amnesty.

Also read: USPS just revealed major post office upgrades—here’s what to expect

According to David Harris, Director of the Illinois Department of Revenue, this program is about more than just collecting back taxes.

It’s a way to help individuals and businesses get back on solid financial ground—especially those who’ve faced tough times or unexpected hardships.

“This initiative demonstrates Governor Pritzker’s ongoing commitment to supporting taxpayers, particularly those facing financial hardships or economic uncertainties,” Harris said.

“We encourage both individuals and business owners to use the amnesty period to resolve outstanding tax liabilities and achieve greater financial stability.”

Read next: 9 tax breaks for people over 50 you might be missing
Are you considering taking advantage of Illinois’ tax amnesty? Have you participated in a similar program before? Maybe you have tips for organizing old tax records, or questions about how this program works.