Illinois Rental Assistance Grants: 2025 Guide for Renters

Are you a renter in Illinois facing financial challenges, a sudden rent increase, or the threat of eviction? State and federally funded rental assistance grants are available to help renters maintain a safe, affordable place to live. In this guide, you’ll discover the latest information about rental assistance grants in Illinois for 2025, including where to apply, official forms, action steps, and the laws that protect tenants.

Available Rental Assistance Grants and Programs in Illinois

The State of Illinois and several local agencies administer rental assistance grants to help vulnerable renters avoid eviction and stabilize their housing. These programs aim to support low-income households, those impacted by emergencies, and renters affected by rising costs. The main programs for 2025 include:

• Illinois Rental Payment Program (ILRPP): Administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), this grant can provide up to 15 months of past due and future rent payments for qualifying renters.
• Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA): Federally funded, locally administered through city or county agencies. For example, Chicago’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program serves city residents in 2025.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Managed by local public housing authorities, this federal program covers a portion of rent for eligible families and individuals. See the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Illinois page for details.

These grants are intended for renters who have low or very low income, have experienced income loss, or are at risk of homelessness. Application windows and eligibility criteria can vary by program and county.

Required Forms: What Illinois Renters Need

When applying for rental assistance in 2025, renters typically need to submit specific forms and documentation that prove eligibility and need. Here are the most common forms you’ll encounter:

• ILRPP Application (No number): The digital application for the Illinois Rental Payment Program, submitted online via the IHDA portal.
  When and how to use: If you fall behind on rent due to COVID-19, job loss, or financial hardship, apply as soon as applications open. Complete the form online and upload proof of income, your current lease, and landlord details. IHDA reviews these applications directly.
• Uniform Assistance Application (No number): Used for ERA and local county programs, such as the Cook County Emergency Rental Assistance.
  When and how to use: If your city or county administers its own ERA funds, access the application from their official website, fill in your household and income information, and submit required documents (Cook County ERA portal).

Other Required Documents

• Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit award letters, etc.)
• Government-issued photo ID
• Signed copy of your current lease
• Past-due rent notice or eviction summons (if applicable)

Be sure to upload clear copies and check all deadlines carefully. Missing documents can delay your approval.

How to Apply for Rental Assistance Grants

Illinois makes it straightforward for renters to begin the application process. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of receiving timely support:

• Visit the official IHDA Illinois Housing Help portal or your local program’s website when applications are open.
• Start the ILRPP or ERA application and carefully fill in your information.
• Upload all required documentation, including income verification, proof of residency, and your lease agreement.
• Monitor your email for additional requests or application status updates.
• If you receive funding, your landlord will typically be paid directly on your behalf.

Which Agency Handles Rental and Eviction Issues in Illinois?

For renters dealing with eviction or legal disputes, the Housing Section of the Chancery Division, Circuit Court of Cook County, and similar county circuit courts handle landlord-tenant cases.

Illinois rental rights and obligations are governed by the Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Repair Act and the Illinois Forcible Entry and Detainer Act.^1–2

How Rental Assistance Protects Renters' Rights

State and federal laws prevent landlords from evicting tenants during active assistance application periods and provide protections against retaliation. If you apply for rental help, notify your landlord in writing. Courts often look for good-faith efforts from renters during eviction hearings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is eligible for Illinois rental assistance grants in 2025?
   Most grants require proof of residency in Illinois, a signed lease, income under program limits, and financial hardship or loss due to COVID-19 or other emergencies.
2. If I have an eviction notice, can I still apply for rental assistance?
   Yes. In fact, if you receive an eviction notice, applying quickly for grant assistance can sometimes delay eviction while your application is processed.
3. How are funds from rental assistance grants distributed?
   Funds are almost always paid directly to your landlord or property manager once your application is approved and documentation is verified.
4. What happens if my rental assistance application is denied?
   You can appeal the decision or seek additional help through local legal aid or housing organizations listed in the Help and Support section below.
5. Where can I get ongoing housing support if my situation does not improve?
   Contact IHDA, local public housing authorities, or see our resources for direct contacts and free legal help for Illinois renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Housing Help (IHDA): Official application portal for grants and further eligibility information
• City of Chicago Emergency Rental Assistance
• Cook County Housing Authority: Information on vouchers, public housing, and emergency programs
• Illinois Legal Aid Online – Renters' Rights
• Cook County Housing Court (Chancery Division): Handles eviction and landlord-tenant disputes in Cook County

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1. Illinois Forcible Entry and Detainer Act (735 ILCS 5/9-101 et seq.)
2. Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Repair Act (765 ILCS 742)
3. Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Official Site
4. U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development: Illinois Renting
5. Cook County Emergency Rental Assistance Program

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