Chicago Housing Assistance Resources
This flyer is primarily intended for persons who are not currently receiving assistance from CHA and is for informational purposes only. This information is up to date as of December 3, 2021.
Note: Each of the programs listed below conducts its own eligibility screening and review process.
Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) Waiting Lists
CHA’s waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is closed, however waiting lists for CHA Public Housing and the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) Program are open and accepting applications. Visit applyonline.thecha.org to learn more, apply and/or check your application status.
Note: There is no waiting list for Emergency Housing Vouchers — they are issued by referral from Chicago Continuum of Care (CoC) agencies. See the Homelessness Prevention Programs section.
Chicago Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Apply December 6 – December 18, 2021
Chicago renters (including subsidized) unable to pay rent or utilities due to a COVID-19 related financial hardship can apply to receive grant funds to cover up to 18 months of rent and utility payments. The application must be completed jointly by the tenant and property owner, and if approved, funds will be paid directly to the property owner. Visit chicago.gov/renthelp.
Illinois Rental Payment Program (ILRPP2)
Apply December 6, 2021 – January 9, 2022
Illinois renters (including subsidized) unable to pay rent due to a COVID-19 related financial hardship can apply to receive grant funds of up to $25,000 to cover up to 18 months of rent payments. The application must be completed jointly by the tenant and property owner, and if approved, funds will be paid directly to the property owner. Visit illinoishousinghelp.org.
Illinois Emergency Rental Assistance Program — All Chicago
Illinois renters (including subsidized) unable to pay rent due to a COVID-19 related financial hardship can apply to receive grant funds to cover up to 15 months of rent. Visit http://www.rentrelief.com/allchicago.
Chicago Homelessness Prevention Programs
Chicago Homelessness Prevention Call Center: Ask for “Short-Term Help” or request transportation to a homeless shelter. Staff will assess impacted person/family eligibility for financial assistance and other community resources and make a referral to a CoC agency. Call 3-1-1 or 312-744-5000.
Chicago’s Coordinated Entry Center: Impacted persons must be sleeping in a shelter, outside, in a vehicle, or any place not meant for human habitation. The housing assessment may not lead to an immediate housing option. Call 312-361-1707.
All Chicago: Full listing of drop-in and by-appointment resources for persons currently homeless or at risk of homelessness. Visit allchicago.org/get-help.
HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies: Counseling available to assist in improving housing conditions, meeting financial needs, and fulfilling the responsibilities of tenancy. Visit tinyurl.com/HUDhousingcounseling.