Critical Rent and Utility Assistance Information
May 10, 2021
Illinois Rental Payment Program (ILRPP)
The Illinois Rental Payment Program (ILRPP) will open for applications on May 17. Applicants are eligible for up to 15 months of assistance. The grant can cover the past due rent from the previous 12 months and future rental assistance for the next three months, if deemed necessary. The maximum grant amount is $25,000. If approved, the grant will be paid to the housing provider in the form of a check.
During the initial phase of the program (May 17 through June 7), applications must be initiated by the housing provider/landlord. If a landlord does not want to participate in the ILRPP, tenants may still be eligible for assistance during an upcoming tenant application period (June 9 through June 28). Whether the application is submitted during the landlord application period or the tenant application period, the tenant will be required to participate in the application process. This will occur through an email received from IHDA. If a tenant needs assistance with this process, contact IHDA's ILRPP call center at 1-866-454-3571 to be connected with an available agency to assist. The call center will be open starting May 17 from 8 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday.
Utility Disconnection Avoidance Program
If you are in need of assistance for past due utility bills, please reach out to your local LIHEAP administrator before May 31 to be eligible for the Utility Disconnection Avoidance Program. Eligible households who are enrolled before May 31, 2021 will be eligible for a credit between $250 and $5,000 to clear past due payments. For more information, go to helpillinoisfamilies.com.
The 2-1-1 Information and Referral Line will continue to maintain the most up-to-date information regarding assistance programs for individuals in need. Everyone is encouraged to call 2-1-1 (or 309-999-4029) to get referrals to appropriate programs dependent upon eligibility.
