Current Housing Relief Programs

Keep up to date with state and local relief programs to address COVID-19-related housing distress.

This page will be updated as new programs launch and others come to a close.

Cook County COVID-19 Recovery Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)

Do you live in Suburban Cook County and need help paying rent and utilities due to  COVID-19? 

The Cook County Emergency Rental Assistance program pays up to 12 months of missed rent and utility payments and up to 3 months of future rent payments. Payments will be made directly to your landlord and utility company. 

Application Period: March 11th thru April 2nd

Apply Online: Cook County COVID-19 Recovery Website

Basic Eligibility: To be eligible, applicants must

  • Live in suburban Cook County and rent their home
      (Landlords may apply on behalf of  eligible tenants) 
  • Lack access to other support (e.g., don’t live in public housing or receive rental assistance from other programs during the same time period) 
  • Have proof of financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic 
  • Have a household annual income at or below these requirements: AMI Chart

Steps to Apply:

1. Check your eligibility at www.cookcountyil.gov/recovery 

2. Download the application checklist and gather your documents 

3. Apply at cookcountygov.org/recovery starting on March 11th 

For questions, language translation services, or help to complete your application, please call the Emergency Rental Assistance Program helpline at 877-426-6515.

View Program Flyer
View Renter Checklist
View Landlord Checklist

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