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housing assistance in illinois

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Illinois

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) providers statewide and Court-Based Rental Assistance Program for those facing eviction
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists in Chicago are 6 months to 25 years long
  • IHDA mortgage programs offer up to $10,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers
  • LIHEAP utility assistance provides $315-$2,075 for heating bills and up to $1,500 for energy crises
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
  • Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately or contact Eviction Help Illinois at (855) 631-0811 for free legal aid.

Can’t pay utilities? Apply for LIHEAP assistance through Help Illinois Families or call 1-833-711-0374.

Need rent help now? Contact an IDHS Service Provider Agency for emergency rental assistance.

In court for eviction? Apply for Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) for up to $10,000 in emergency assistance.

In danger? Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline: (877) 863-6338 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP)

The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program provides emergency assistance to tenants and landlords who have pending eviction cases in Illinois courts. This program is administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA).

What it covers:

  • Up to $10,000 applied to past-due rent
  • Up to $700 for court costs
  • Up to two months of future rent to prevent eviction
  • No citizenship requirement to apply

Income requirements: Household income must be at or below 80% of Area Median Income for your county. Check income limits for your county here.

How to apply: You must have a pending eviction case in court. Apply online at illinoishousinghelp.org/cbrap or call the CBRAP call center at (866) 454-3571.

Processing time: Applications are processed within 2-3 weeks after submission with all required documentation.

Reality check: This program is only available if you already have an eviction case filed in court. Don’t wait until you’re in court – seek help from other rental assistance programs first.

Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Rental Assistance

For families behind on rent but not yet facing eviction court proceedings, IDHS Service Provider Agencies offer rental assistance throughout Illinois.

What it covers:

  • Past-due rent payments
  • Security deposits for new housing
  • Utility assistance
  • Case management services

How to apply: Contact your local IDHS Service Provider Agency. Agencies will help determine eligibility, complete applications, and provide additional support services.

Processing time: Varies by agency and funding availability, typically 2-4 weeks.

Chicago Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

The City of Chicago’s Rental Assistance Program provides funding to residents at risk of homelessness due to financial hardship.

What it covers:

  • Emergency rental payments for crisis situations (job loss, illness, fire, etc.)
  • Temporary assistance to maintain housing while regaining stability

Eligibility: Chicago residents suffering financial hardship due to eligible emergencies.

How to apply: Contact one of Chicago’s Community Service Centers:

Reality check: Funding is limited and based on availability. Apply as early as possible when facing a housing crisis.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Illinois, very low-income families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to Fair Market Rent limits.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Family Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $34,200 $20,500
2 people $39,100 $23,450
3 people $44,000 $26,400
4 people $48,850 $29,300

Note: Income limits vary significantly by metropolitan area. These figures represent Chicago metro averages. Check with your local Public Housing Authority for exact figures in your area.

Priority groups:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

  1. Check if waiting lists are open at your local Public Housing Authority
  2. Apply online when waiting list opens
  3. Provide required documentation (income verification, ID, Social Security cards)
  4. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  5. Wait for voucher availability
  6. Attend voucher briefing when selected
  7. Search for qualifying rental unit within time limit
  8. Pass housing quality standards inspection

Reality check: According to a 2023 report, Chicago Housing Authority has over 200,000 families on waiting lists, with wait times ranging from 6 months to 25 years depending on the development and unit size needed. Many housing authorities’ Section 8 waiting lists are currently closed.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Chicago $1,199 $1,459 $1,754 $2,079
Rockford $700 $857 $1,093 $1,379
Peoria $573 $729 $967 $1,167
Springfield $573 $729 $967 $1,167

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income, and utilities may be included.

Chicago Housing Authority: CHA is the largest owner of rental housing in Chicago, providing homes to more than 50,000 families with almost 9,500 senior apartments and over 7,000 family housing units.

Application: CHA’s waiting lists are currently open and you can apply at any time.

Reality check: Even though waiting lists are open, actual placement can take many years due to high demand and limited availability.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: The LIHEAP Clearinghouse Illinois Profile

Benefit Type Amount
Regular Heating $315 – $2,075
Winter Crisis Up to $1,500
Weatherization Up to $11,000

Income Eligibility (200% Federal Poverty Level)

Source: Illinois LIHEAP Income Guidelines

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $31,200
2 people $42,480
3 people $53,760
4 people $65,040
5 people $76,320

Application periods:

  • Priority applications (seniors 60+, disabled, families with children 5 and under, disconnected utilities): October 1, 2024
  • All other eligible households: November 1, 2024
  • Program runs through August 15, 2025 or until funds exhausted

How to apply: Visit helpillinoisfamilies.com or call the Help Illinois Families Call Center at (833) 711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills or disconnect notices
  • Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

Reality check: LIHEAP begins accepting applications October 1st annually and continues until August 15th or until funding runs out. Apply early in the season to avoid funding shortfalls.

Utility Company Assistance Programs

ComEd Energy Assistance Programs

  • LIHEAP Plus: Additional assistance beyond LIHEAP
  • Energy Efficiency Programs: Free weatherization services

Nicor Gas Programs

  • Energy Aide Program: Up to $250 toward past-due balances through Community Action Agencies
  • Share the Warmth: Matching grants up to $200 for customers who make payments

Peoples Gas/North Shore Gas

  • Share the Warmth: Heating grants up to $200 for limited-income households administered by CEDA

Homeownership Programs

Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Programs

IHDA offers several programs to help first-time homebuyers purchase homes with down payment assistance and competitive interest rates.

IHDA Mortgage Program:

  • Down payment assistance up to $10,000
  • Competitive fixed interest rates
  • Available statewide for first-time homebuyers
  • Income and purchase price limits apply

Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC):

  • Federal tax credit of 10-50% of mortgage interest paid annually
  • Can be combined with IHDA mortgage loans
  • Increases purchasing power

How to apply: Work with an approved IHDA lender. Find approved lenders and housing counselors here.

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down payment and accept lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Benefits:

  • Down payment as low as 3.5%
  • Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
  • Seller can pay closing costs
  • Assumable loans

VA Loans (for Veterans)

Veterans and eligible spouses can access VA loans with:

  • No down payment required
  • No private mortgage insurance
  • Competitive interest rates
  • No prepayment penalties

Home Repair Programs

Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program (HAFHR)

This program helps eligible homeowners address home maintenance needs delayed due to COVID-19.

What it covers:

  • Health and safety repairs
  • Accessibility modifications
  • Energy efficiency improvements

Eligibility: Low- and moderate-income homeowners affected by COVID-19.

How to apply: Contact approved local agencies directly. IHDA provides funding to approved agencies who then provide grants to homeowners.

Reality check: Funding is limited and administered through local agencies. Many agencies have waiting lists due to high demand.

Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP)

HRAP provides grants to low- and extremely low-income homeowners for vital health, safety, and accessibility repairs.

Administered through: Local governments and nonprofit organizations selected by IHDA.

Target areas: Focus on preserving affordable housing stock and helping seniors and people with disabilities stay in their homes.

Specialized Housing Resources

Housing Opportunities for Women (HOW)

Since 1983, Housing Opportunities for Women has been providing permanent solutions to homelessness for women and families in the Chicagoland area.

Services include:

  • Permanent supportive housing
  • Case management and support services
  • Prevention strategies to avoid homelessness
  • Individualized support services

Service area: Chicagoland region

Transitional Housing Programs

Many Community Action Agencies throughout Illinois offer transitional housing programs for single mothers and families. These programs typically provide:

  • Temporary housing for 6-24 months
  • Case management and goal setting
  • Job training and education support
  • Childcare assistance
  • Life skills training

Contact: Find your local Community Action Agency for transitional housing options in your area.

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Illinois has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the following resources provide affirming support:

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Local support:

  • Equality Illinois: Advocacy and resource referrals
  • Center on Halsted (Chicago): LGBTQ+ community resources and support
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

Tribal-Specific Resources

Illinois does not have federally recognized tribes, but Native American families may access:

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide Native American Housing Assistance: Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs at (800) 955-2232

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families in Illinois face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

  • Community Action Agencies provide outreach services in rural counties
  • Some agencies provide transportation vouchers for essential appointments
  • Telehealth and virtual support services available through many programs

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for gas cards or transportation vouchers
  • Some housing authorities provide transportation for housing searches

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs:

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups

Resources by Region

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Chicago Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing
  • Address: 60 East Van Buren Street, Chicago, IL 60605
  • Phone: (312) 935-2400
  • Website: thecha.org

Housing Authority of Cook County

  • Serves suburban Cook County
  • Address: 10 South LaSalle Street, Suite 2200, Chicago, IL 60603
  • Phone: (312) 542-4700
  • Website: thehacc.org

Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County (CEDA)

Northern Illinois

DuPage & Kendall Housing Authority

Rockford Housing Authority

  • Public housing and Section 8 vouchers
  • Address: 223 S Winnebago Street, Rockford, IL 61102
  • Phone: (815) 489-8500

Central Illinois

Springfield Housing Authority

  • Public housing and rental assistance
  • Address: 200 N 11th Street, Springfield, IL 62703
  • Phone: (217) 753-5757

Peoria Housing Authority

  • Housing assistance for Peoria County
  • Address: 100 NE Water Street, Peoria, IL 61602
  • Phone: (309) 671-2000

Southern Illinois

East St. Louis Housing Authority

  • Serves East St. Louis and surrounding areas
  • Address: 700 N 20th Street, East St. Louis, IL 62205
  • Phone: (618) 482-5800

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Illinois?

According to Chicago Housing Authority data, wait times vary dramatically by location and program type:

  • Chicago area: 6 months to 25 years depending on development and unit size
  • Smaller cities: 1-5 years typically
  • Rural areas: Often shorter waits but fewer available units

Many housing authorities’ waiting lists are currently closed. Check current waiting list status before attempting to apply.

Can I get help if I work but still can’t afford rent?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. Working families earning up to 80% of Area Median Income can often qualify for assistance. In Chicago, a family of three can typically earn up to about $70,400 annually and still qualify for some programs.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Illinois passed the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance and similar local laws in some municipalities prohibiting source of income discrimination. However, this protection doesn’t exist statewide. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords, or use HUD’s housing search tools.

Are there emergency programs if I’m about to be evicted?

Yes, several options:

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often layer multiple forms of assistance. For example, you might receive LIHEAP for utilities, SNAP benefits for food, and emergency rental assistance – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements and they don’t duplicate coverage.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction history?

Many emergency assistance programs don’t require credit checks. For long-term programs like Section 8, housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations and evidence of changed circumstances. Some programs specifically serve people with barriers to housing.

How do I prove income if I work irregular hours or get paid cash?

Keep detailed records of all work. Ask employers for written statements, even for cash work. Your local housing counselor or IDHS caseworker can help you document irregular income properly. Bank deposit records can also help establish income patterns.

What if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

Most federal programs require legal immigration status, but some emergency assistance may be available regardless of status. Illinois specifically notes that proof of citizenship is not required for some programs like CBRAP. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on available assistance.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice with information about requesting a hearing. Don’t miss appeal deadlines – they’re typically 10-14 days from denial. Legal Aid organizations can help with appeals.

What happens if my income increases while receiving assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income exceeds limits, you may have a phase-out period or graduate to other housing options. Programs are designed to help you achieve stability and self-sufficiency.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for government housing programs. All legitimate federal and state programs are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be wary of rental listings requiring money before viewing properties or deals that seem too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” assistance: No legitimate service can guarantee housing assistance or move you to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Limited funding: All programs have more applicants than available assistance. Apply to multiple programs simultaneously.

Long waiting lists: With over 200,000 families on Chicago area waiting lists alone, patience is essential for long-term programs.

Documentation requirements: Missing paperwork is the most common cause of delays. Gather documents in advance.

Geographic limitations: Some programs only serve specific counties or municipalities.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs: Don’t wait for denial from one program before applying to others.

Keep organized records: Maintain files of all applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Contact agencies monthly to check on application status.

Be honest about circumstances: Programs exist to help people in difficult situations – accurate information helps ensure you get appropriate assistance.

Get professional help: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance navigating the system.

Additional Resources

Illinois State Agencies

Illinois Department of Human Services

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

2-1-1 Illinois

  • Comprehensive resource referral service
  • Phone: 2-1-1
  • Website: illinois211.org

Legal Aid

Illinois Legal Aid Online

Legal Aid Chicago

  • Free legal help for housing issues in Cook County
  • Phone: (312) 341-1070

Prairie State Legal Services

Financial Counseling

Illinois Financial Counseling Programs Find certified financial counselors to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education through HUD-approved housing counseling agencies.

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Illinois guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Housing Development Authority, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Housing Development Authority, Chicago Housing Authority, HUD, and Community Action Agency sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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