Cook County, Illinois, has officially made its guaranteed income program permanent, setting aside $7.5 million in the 2026 budget.
The program provides $500 a month in unrestricted cash payments, following the success of a pilot that supported 3,250 households using federal pandemic funding.
What the Program Offers
Participants receive $500 per month with no work requirements and no restrictions on how the money is spent.
Households typically use the funds for essentials like food, rent, transportation, and bills.
Who Is Eligible?
Although final rules for the next enrollment period have not yet been released, officials say eligibility will remain similar to the pilot.
That means applicants will likely need to meet the following requirements:
1. Income
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Must be low- or moderate-income, generally below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
2. Residency
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Must live in Cook County, including Chicago and nearby suburbs.
3. Age
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Must be 18 years or older.
4. Financial Hardship
Applicants who show difficulty covering basic expenses, such as rent, utilities, food, childcare, or emergency costs, may be prioritized.
5. Not Receiving Duplicate Guaranteed Income
Residents already enrolled in another county-run guaranteed income program were not eligible in the pilot. A similar rule may apply in the permanent program.
Why the Program Was Expanded
Pilot data showed strong results:
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75% felt more financially secure
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94% used funds for emergencies
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Participants reported lower stress and better mental health
These outcomes led the county to keep the payments going permanently.
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