The Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP), run by the  Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), helps tenants facing eviction. In 2024, the program's budget was increased to $75 million, with the goal of continuing to prevent evictions statewide. As of September 20, 2024, IHDA has reopened the statewide eviction rental assistance program and will continue accepting applications through June 2024 or until funds are exhausted.  

This program allows eligible applicants to qualify for up to $15,000 in emergency rental assistance that can be used to pay for past-due rent, up to $500 for court costs, and up to two months’ future rent to prevent eviction. 

North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic offers free housing legal aid to residents of Lake County and Cook County. While we do not provide rental assistance funds, we can help navigate the application process. For questions regarding Court-Based Rental Assistance, contact NSLAC at 847-737-4042 or email Info@NSLegalAid.org.

How Can I Apply for Court-Based Rental Assistance?   

Interested applicants can apply for Court-Based Rental Assistance online through the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s portal. After the tenant has submitted their portion of the application, the landlord must complete theirs too. The tenant and landlord portions are then matched while IHDA processes the application.  

Who is Eligible for Court-Based Rental Assistance?  

To qualify for Court-Based Rental Assistance (CBRAP), tenants must meet the following criteria:  

• Have a pending eviction case in court.  

• Reside  in the state of Illinois  

• Have a household income at or below 80% of the area’s median income.  

Proof of citizenship is not required.  

What If My Landlord Doesn’t Want to Participate in the Court-Based Rental Assistance Program? 

If a landlord does not wish to participate, the tenant can be considered for Tenant Direct rental assistance. This option allows tenants to receive direct rental assistance that can be applied to a new unit and is equal to two months of future rent. 

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for Court-Based Rental Assistance?  

Tenants interested in applying for Court-Based Rental Assistance must provide the following documents:  

• A government-issued Photo ID 

• Proof of address dated within the last 60 days 

• Documentation of household income 

• Evidence of past-due rent 

• Eviction court complaint, summons, and court-case number (the tenant’s name must be listed on the eviction document) 

• Current signed lease (if available) 

• Proof of public assistance (if applicable) 

• Valid email addresses for both the tenant and landlord/housing provider 

Find a full list of acceptable documents HERE 

Tenants who have already applied can check the status of their CBRAP application HERE. 

Are There Other Rental Assistance Programs in Illinois? 

Yes, Illinois offers several rental assistance options. Programs are available through cities, townships, and various social service agencies. We encourage tenants to explore local nonprofits and social service agencies for help. 

Free Housing Legal Aid for Lake County and Cook County Residents  

North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic (NSLAC) provides free legal housing representation to low-income renters living in north suburban Cook County and Lake County. NSLAC assists with landlord/tenant relations, including evictions, lease disputes, lockouts, and wrongful retaliation. If you are facing housing issues and need legal assistance, please be in touch with NSLAC at 847-737-4042 or email Info@NSLegalAid.org