Illinois
Sale typeTax lien certificate
Rate / penaltyUp to 18% per 6-month period, bid down
Redemption period2–3 years
Illinois' penalty accrues per six-month period rather than annually — up to 18% each half-year the certificate goes unredeemed, which compounds to a much higher effective annual return than a flat-rate state. Bidding is by rate, driven down from that 18% ceiling.
Not sure how Illinois's system compares to a state you already know? Read Tax Lien vs. Tax Deed: What's the Difference? for the full breakdown.
This page is general information, not financial or legal advice. Rates and redemption periods are set by state statute and can change by county or legislative session — always confirm against the county's own auction notice before bidding.