News & Insights

As we enter into 2026, Cook County is still wrapping up the 2025 tax year assessment appeals—and we’re already gearing up for what’s next. The Cook County Board of Review has announced that February 3 is the final day to file an assessment appeal for properties in Lake, Orland, Palatine,…

Due to the delay in issuing the 2024 Second Installment Tax Bill (payable on December 15, 2025), the Cook County Board of Review has announced a rare reopening of property tax appeals for the 2025 tax year for selected townships. Reopened Appeal WindowIf your property is located in any of…

Laws change annually—and this year is no different. Effective January 1, 2026 (or later in 2026), many new laws or modifications to existing laws will take effect. So, even if your company updated its handbook in January 2025, it will probably need to make some changes.  As a quick sampling: New…

Darrin Baim celebrates 25 years at GCT! Darrin wears many hats at the firm including executive committee member, hiring and equity partner, and all-around rock star attorney. Darrin joined the firm just two years into his law career and has excelled in every way ever since. He has been integral…

A few years back I had a friend that was a CPA. He was a brilliant guy that taught at DePaul in their Masters of Tax Program. He was a little quirky. His personal trademark was “Belt and Suspenders” and yep… he wore both a regular belt at his waist…

Cook County has announced that its second installment property tax bills will be issued on November 14, with a payment deadline of December 15. Traditionally, these bills are sent out in July with an August due date. However, a major overhaul of the County’s property tax system has caused significant…