Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. Whether you're trying to keep the home you have, find a new one, or get back into housing, I'm really glad you're here. Housing worries can keep you up at night. Let's take it one step at a time.
Here is the easy first step: if you might lose your home soon, or you already have, dial 211 and tell them what's going on. Then use this guide to see your options as a renter in Illinois.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise money, a unit or a spot in any program.
- This guide shares general information, not legal advice. For your own situation, talk with a legal aid office.
- Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.
Housing help usually falls into three buckets. Knowing which one you need makes every phone call faster.
- Keeping your home. Help with late rent or utilities, talking with your landlord, and where to get legal help.
- Finding a home you can afford. Affordable apartments, Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and public housing.
- Getting back into housing. If you've lost your home, Coordinated Entry and Rapid Rehousing help people move back inside.
How to start, step by step
- Pick your bucket: keeping, finding, or getting back into a home.
- Dial 211. Say your county and what you need, like "I'm behind on rent."
- Ask for rent help programs, housing counseling and legal aid near you.
- Write down every name, number and date. Keep copies of your lease and notices.
- If you got any court papers, call legal aid right away. Don't wait.
- Follow up when they tell you to. Programs move faster when you call back.
What to say when you call 211
"Hi. I live in [county]. I'm behind on rent by [amount] and I'm worried about losing my home."
"Are there rent help programs open right now?"
"Can you connect me with no cost legal help for renters?"
"What papers should I have ready?"
I'm behind on rent. What should I do?
First, take a breath. Being behind is scary, but acting early gives you the most choices.
- Talk with your landlord early and honestly. Ask if you can set up a payment plan. Get any deal in writing.
- Call 211 about rent help. Programs open and close, so ask what's available in your county right now. IDHS also funds Homeless Prevention providers in every part of the state. They can help with back rent, utilities or a security deposit when a short term hardship put you behind, and you can call the IDHS Help Line at 1.800.843.6154 for a referral. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30360
- Call a HUD approved housing counselor at 800.569.4287. HUD says these counselors can help with renting, avoiding eviction and budgeting, at no cost or low cost.
- Read every notice carefully and keep it. Take a photo of it too.
Say you got an eviction notice
Say you got a notice from your landlord about rent. A notice is not a court order. It only starts the process. The landlord still has to file an eviction case in court and win it, and only the sheriff, with a judge's order, can remove you. Write down the date you got the notice and call legal aid or Eviction Help Illinois right away.
If you're in eviction court for unpaid rent, the Illinois Court Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) may help. It says it can cover up to $10,000 in past due rent, up to $700 in court costs, and up to two months of future rent, for renters at or below 80% of the area median income who haven't been approved in the last 24 months. Apply at https://www.illinoishousinghelp.org/cbrap
This is an example to show how it can go, not legal advice. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different. Questions about notices? Check the official page: https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/lockouts-and-emergency-rental-repairs
Get it in writing
Any payment plan or promise from your landlord, ask for it in a text, email or letter. It protects you and them!
How do security deposits work in Illinois?
Here's what to know.
- If your landlord keeps part of your deposit for damage, ask for a written list of the damage and what it costs.
- Questions about the details? Check the official page below, and decide what's right for you.
- Normal wear and tear is not damage. Give your new address in writing when you move out.
- Chicago renters have extra protections under the City's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. Legal aid can explain them.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/
Protect your deposit when you move out
How do I find a place I can afford?
- Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8). Vouchers help pay rent to a private landlord. They're run by local public housing agencies, and many have waiting lists. HUD keeps a contact list of local public housing agencies. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
- Public housing. Also run by local public housing agencies. Ask about it when you call.
- Affordable apartments. ILHousingSearch.org is a no cost search for affordable, accessible and market rate rentals across Illinois. Help line: 1.877.428.8844, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 7 pm. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://ilhousingsearch.org/
- In Chicago, the Chicago Housing Authority runs public housing and vouchers. In suburban Cook County, it's the Housing Authority of Cook County. Sources: https://www.thecha.org/ and https://thehacc.org/
- Get on more than one list. Waiting lists are long. Signing up for several gives you more chances.
Say you're on a voucher waiting list in Rockford
Say you applied for a voucher months ago. You could call the housing agency to make sure your address and phone are current, so you don't miss a letter.
While you wait, you could ask 211 about rent help, look for listings on ILHousingSearch.org, or call a HUD counselor at 800.569.4287. If a landlord turns you away because you'd pay with a voucher, see section 6.
This is an example to show how it can go. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different.
I already lost my home. How do I get back in?
- Coordinated Entry. In Illinois communities, you talk with a trained worker once, and they work to match you with the housing programs that fit. Your county's number is in the list later in this guide.
- Rapid Rehousing. HUD describes it as permanent housing with short term rental help (up to 3 months) or medium term help (4 to 24 months), plus support services. HUD does not require a disability to qualify, but each program has its own rules. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/coc-esg-virtual-binders/coc-program-components/permanent-housing/rapid-re-housing/
- Need a bed tonight? See Guide 2, Emergency Shelter Tonight.
Getting back into a home is a process, not a single phone call. Keep going. Every call gets you a little closer.
From the Bunklow team
What if I'm treated unfairly?
Think you were treated differently because of your race, disability, family, source of income (like a Housing Choice Voucher) or who you are? You can report it to the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR).
Check the full list on the official page. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://dhr.illinois.gov/rights/housing-rights.html
- Filing with IDHR is at no cost, and you don't need a lawyer. Check the timing on the official page. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://dhr.illinois.gov/about-us/idhr-faqs/know-your-rights-faqs/faq-sourceincome.html
- You can also file with HUD online at https://www.hud.gov/contactus/file-complaint
- Think your landlord punished you for asking for repairs or reporting a problem? Call legal aid, and check the official page: https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/
Keep a housing folder
Questions people ask a lot
Can my landlord lock me out or shut off my utilities?
Illinois Legal Aid Online says only the sheriff, with a judge's order, can evict someone. If you're locked out or your utilities are shut off, call legal aid right away. In Chicago, Rentervention offers no cost help with lockouts at 312.347.7600.
How long is the wait for Section 8?
It depends on the housing agency, and many have long waits. Ask them directly and keep your contact info updated.
Is rent help available right now?
Programs open and close. Dial 211 and ask what's open in your county today, or call the IDHS Help Line at 1.800.843.6154 about Homeless Prevention.
Do I need a lawyer to go to court?
You don't have to have one, but no cost legal help can make a big difference. Anywhere in Illinois, you can text the word eviction to 85622 for Eviction Help Illinois. In Cook County, call Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt at 855.956.5763.
How fast should I get my deposit back?
Check the official page from Illinois Legal Aid Online, at illinoislegalaid.org, and call legal aid if it doesn't come.
Can I get help with my heating bill?
Yes, maybe. Illinois LIHEAP helps eligible households with energy bills. For the 2027 program year, applications opened October 1, 2026 for older adults, people with a disability, families with children 5 and under, and households facing a shutoff. Everyone else who qualifies can apply starting November 1, 2026. The application period runs to August 13, 2027, or until funds run out. Call 1.833.711.0374 for help applying.
What does a housing counselor do?
HUD says they help with renting, avoiding eviction or foreclosure, and budgeting. Call 800.569.4287.
Sources: https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/lockouts-and-emergency-rental-repairs and https://chicago.gov/eviction and https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/evictionhelpillinois and https://www.cookcountylegalaid.org/ and https://dceo.illinois.gov/communityservices/utilitybillassistance/howtoapply.html
I'm happy to help however I can
Housing stuff can be confusing. You don't have to figure it all out today. Make one call, write it down, and take the next step tomorrow. You've got this!
Here are housing helpers near you, including Coordinated Entry, legal aid and rent help lines. If your county isn't listed, dial 211.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
HUD: help for people experiencing homelessness
What it offers HUD funds local groups but does not give direct help itself. Its page says to dial 211 and press 6 for homeless services. It also has a map of affordable housing (call each property to check for openings) and says to contact your local Public Housing Agency for a Housing Choice Voucher.
How to reach Dial 211, then press 6. Housing map at resources.hud.gov
Source https://www.hud.gov/helping-americans
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Illinois
Here are some places to start.
Eviction Help Illinois
What it offers No cost help for lower income Illinois renters facing eviction, and for landlords without a lawyer: legal representation, document help, rental payment programs, and help working out rent disputes. You don't need a court case. Spanish help is available.
How to reach Call 855.631.0811. Or text the word eviction to 85622.
Source https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/evictionhelpillinois
Last checked October 17, 2026
IDHS Homeless Prevention providers
What it offers Agencies across Illinois that can help with back rent, mortgage, utilities or a security deposit when a short term hardship put your housing at risk. IDHS lists a provider for every county, with phone numbers, on one page (the list was updated November 2025).
How to reach Find your county on the list, or call the IDHS Help Line at 1.800.843.6154.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Illinois Court Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP)
What it offers Rent help for Illinois renters who have a pending eviction case for unpaid rent. If you qualify, it can cover up to $10,000 in rent, including up to two months of future rent, plus up to $700 for court costs. It's a one time benefit, and you have to wait 24 months before you can apply again.
How to reach Have your eviction complaint, summons and court case number ready, then apply online at https://www.illinoishousinghelp.org/cbrap
Source https://www.illinoishousinghelp.org/cbrap?lang=en
Last checked October 17, 2026
ILHousingSearch.org
What it offers A no cost statewide search for affordable, accessible and market rate rentals.
How to reach Search at https://ilhousingsearch.org/ or call 1.877.428.8844, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 7 pm Central. For TTY, dial 711.
Source https://ilhousingsearch.org/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Chicago and Cook County
Here are some places to start.
Chicago Homelessness Prevention Call Center
What it offers Short term help for Chicago residents at risk of losing housing.
How to reach Call 311 or 312.744.5000 and ask for "Short Term Help." Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. TTY 312.948.6817.
Source https://allchicago.org/need-help-start-here/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt
What it offers No cost help for Cook County residents and property owners, regardless of income, language or immigration status.
How to reach Call 855.956.5763, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://chicago.gov/eviction
Last checked October 17, 2026
Rentervention (Chicago tenants)
What it offers No cost, confidential help for Chicago tenants dealing with lockouts or evictions.
How to reach Call 312.347.7600, text "hi" to 866.773.6837, or visit rentervention.com
Source https://chicago.gov/eviction
Last checked October 17, 2026
Chicago Rental Assistance Program
What it offers The City's DFSS program helps with rent and back rent for households facing immediate eviction.
How to reach Chicago.gov/fss/RAP, or visit a DFSS Community Service Center (see Guide 5).
Source https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fss/provdrs/serv.html
Last checked October 17, 2026
Suburban Cook County Coordinated Entry Call Center
What it offers The front door to homeless services in suburban Cook County. Staff ask standard questions and route you to housing help that fits, or to partner agencies for prevention.
How to reach Call 877.426.6515. Or start online at myentrypoint.org
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=177211
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
DuPage County
Here are some places to start.
DuPage County Community Services
What it offers DuPage's Homeless Prevention provider and the county's intake line for rent, utility and housing help.
How to reach Call 630.407.6500.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Prairie State Legal Services
What it offers No cost civil legal help, including housing cases, for people who qualify in many northern Illinois counties, including DuPage, Lake, Kane, McHenry and Winnebago.
How to reach Apply at https://www.pslegal.org/ or call 815.965.2134.
Source https://www.pslegal.org/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Lake County
Here are some places to start.
Lake County Homeless Prevention providers
What it offers Lake County agencies on the IDHS Homeless Prevention list that help renters at risk of losing their home.
How to reach Lake County Community Development 847.377.2134. Lake County Housing Authority 847.223.1170. PADS Lake County 847.689.4357.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Will County
Here are some places to start.
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet
What it offers A Homeless Prevention provider for Will County and nearby counties.
How to reach Call 815.724.1104. Respond Now also serves Will and Cook at 708.755.4357.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Kane County
Here are some places to start.
Kane County Homeless Prevention providers
What it offers Agencies that help Kane County renters at risk of losing their home.
How to reach Association for Individual Development 630.966.4000. Lazarus House 630.587.2144. Community Crisis Center 847.697.2380.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
McHenry County
Here are some places to start.
McHenry County Homeless Prevention providers
What it offers Agencies that help McHenry County renters at risk of losing their home.
How to reach Home of the Sparrow 815.271.5444. Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Northern IL 815.338.5757.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Winnebago County
Here are some places to start.
City of Rockford Health and Human Services
What it offers The Homeless Prevention provider for Winnebago, Boone and DeKalb counties.
How to reach Call 779.348.7169.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Madison County
Here are some places to start.
Madison County Homeless Prevention providers
What it offers Agencies that help Madison County renters at risk of losing their home.
How to reach Madison County Community Development 618.296.5424. Madison County Urban League 618.463.1906. Riverbend Family Ministries 618.251.9790.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, Western Regional Office (Alton)
What it offers No cost civil legal help, including housing problems, for people who qualify.
How to reach Call 618.462.0029. Or call the Legal Advice and Referral Center at 877.342.7891.
Source https://lincolnlegal.org/locations/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
St. Clair County
Here are some places to start.
St. Clair County Homeless Prevention providers
What it offers Agencies that help St. Clair County renters at risk of losing their home.
How to reach Catholic Urban Programs 618.398.5616. CDBG Operations Corporation 618.274.7832. Salvation Army St. Clair County 618.235.7378.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Land of Lincoln Legal Aid (East St. Louis)
What it offers No cost civil legal help, including housing problems, for people who qualify.
How to reach Call 618.398.0958. Or call the Legal Advice and Referral Center at 877.342.7891.
Source https://lincolnlegal.org/locations/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Champaign County
Here are some places to start.
Champaign County Regional Planning Commission
What it offers The Homeless Prevention provider for Champaign County.
How to reach Call 217.328.3313.
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=110583
Last checked October 17, 2026
Land of Lincoln Legal Aid (Champaign)
What it offers No cost civil legal help, including housing problems, for people who qualify.
How to reach Call 217.356.1351. Or call the Legal Advice and Referral Center at 877.342.7891.
Source https://lincolnlegal.org/locations/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Neighborhood and other counties
Here are some places to start.
Illinois 211 (outside Chicago and Cook County)
What it offers No cost help finding local services across Illinois. The call center is open 24 hours a day.
How to reach Dial 211. Text your ZIP code to 898211. Search at search.211illinois.org
Source https://www.211illinois.org/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
My housing plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
Where I stand
Calls I made
Key numbers to keep
Please let me know if you have any questions
If something here is out of date, tell us and we'll fix it. Make it a great day, friend!
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 17, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Affordable living. Simplified
