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Real Estate Transfer Tax
The City of Evanston Real Estate Transfer Tax
The City of Evanston established the Real Estate Transfer Tax in 1986 under Ordinance 33-O-86. This tax applies to the transfer of real property and is typically paid by the seller, unless otherwise specified by contract. Revenue generated supports the City's General Fund, and the City Collector's office oversees tax collection and exemption issuance.
In 2025, the City Council adopted Ordinance 18-O-25, amending Title 3, Chapter 25, Section 8 of the City Code to authorize Electronic Real Estate Transfer Stamps.
Real Estate Transfer Stamp Request
Important Timelines & Policies
- Submit Requests Early: Submit 7 to 10 business days before your closing date.
- Processing Time: Allow 5 business days, starting the business day after receipt.
- No Expedited Requests: Expedited processing is not available, with no exceptions.
- No In-Person Applications: Applications must be submitted online or via 3-1-1. In-person requests are not accepted.
How to Submit an Online Request
Before starting, ensure you have the sale contract or deed accessible.
- Go to the Evanston Online Service Request Portal.
- Enter the property address under Issue Location.
- Select Real Estate Transfer Stamp under Type of Issue.
What Happens Next
- You will receive email notifications confirming submission and completion.
- The final water bill is processed automatically with the request (excluding condos and vacant land).
Note: Stamps are issued only after document verification and payment of all outstanding debts owed to the City.
Please follow these steps to submit your documents:
- Download the Evanston Real Estate Declaration Form.
- Complete and sign the form.
- Upload the form and any supporting documents directly to your existing Service Request.
If you need assistance, please contact the Evanston 3-1-1 center at (847) 448-4311.
Real Estate Transfer Tax Rates
Sale rates effective (Ordinance 148-O-18)
|
Sale Price Range |
Tax Rate (per $1,000 value) |
|
Up to $1,500,000 |
$5 |
|
$1,500,000.01 to $5,000,000 |
$7 |
|
Over $5,000,000 |
$9 |
Exemption Stamp Fee
As of March 20, 2006, a $100 fee applies to exempt transactions under Evanston City Code 3-25-8-1.
Pay Online
We encourage you to use the online payment link provided in your Service Request to pay transfer tax stamp charges and additional fees via credit card or bank account.
- Payment instructions—including the link, account number, zip code, and amount due—will be sent once your completed declaration form is received.
- Your Electronic Transfer Stamp will be emailed to you after all fees are verified.
Pay In-Person
- Location: City of Evanston, Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, City Collector's Office, 909 Davis St., Evanston, IL 60201.
- Accepted payments: Credit card, money order, cash, or check payable to "City of Evanston."
- Bring your Service Request number and all required forms and documentation.
Pay By Mail
Mail all required documentation, completed forms, Service Request number, and payment (check or money order payable to "City of Evanston" only) to the address below. Please allow 1–2 business days after delivery for internal processing.
The City of Evanston
City Collector's Office
Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center
909 Davis Street
Evanston, IL 60201
Payments for Transfer Stamp Amounting to $5,000 or More:
- $5,000 to $49,999: Accepted payments are credit card, cashier's check, title company check, or wire transfer. Personal and attorney checks are not accepted.
- $50,000 or more: Payment must be submitted by cashier's check or wire transfer only.
Paying Your Final Evanston Water Bill
If applicable, your final water bill will be generated near your closing date and sent via your Service Request.
To pay, have your account number and balance ready, visit https://cityofevanston.watersmart.com/, and select "Pay My Bill."
Note: Once all payments and documents are verified, your electronic real estate transfer tax stamp will be issued.