Illinois

Illinois Department of Commerce – Housing Assistance

The Illinois Department of Commerce administers programs offering housing support, including housing rehabilitation, rental assistance, and accessibility assistance for occupancy by persons with disabilities

Agency
Illinois Department of Commerce
Type
State Resource
Phone
1-833-711-0374
Application Period
Income Limit
Visit Website

The Illinois Department of Commerce administers programs offering housing support, including housing rehabilitation, rental assistance, and accessibility assistance for occupancy by persons with disabilities.

The Illinois Department of Commerce administers programs offering housing support, including housing rehabilitation, rental assistance, and accessibility assistance for occupancy by persons with disabilities.

Eligibility Requirements

Assistance must be accessed through a unit of local government, participating community action agency, or other not-for-profit organizations.

Images & PDFs

City of Urbana and Urbana Home Consortium FY 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan

City of Urbana and Urbana Home Consortium FY 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan

A comprehensive plan outlining housing assistance initiatives and resources available to individuals and families in Champaign/Urbana/Champaign County. Emphasizes supportive services for low-income households.

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Health Impact Assessments - National Center for Healthy Housing

Health Impact Assessments - National Center for Healthy Housing

An educational resource highlighting the importance of housing quality, affordability, location, and community attributes in relation to health outcomes.

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Illinois Housing Empowerment Handbook

Illinois Housing Empowerment Handbook

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Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program

Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program

A guide from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity detailing the pre-apprenticeship program, aimed at providing pathways to higher-paying careers through skills training.

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Impact Reports

Housing Aid: Breaking Down the Myths

8/25/2022 | Coverage: national

This HUD report addresses common misconceptions surrounding housing assistance and provides data-driven arguments to counter the belief that such aid is merely a handout, illustrating the long-term benefits for recipients and society.

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Coverage Area: national

Illinois Housing Assistance Programs: Benefits and Community Impact

5/15/2022 | Coverage: state

This report outlines the various housing assistance programs available in Illinois, focusing on their positive impacts on both individuals and communities. It discusses how these programs not only provide essential financial support but also help to integrate participants into the community.

Source: Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

Coverage Area: state

The Rising Cost of Living and Housing Assistance Needs

1/10/2023 | Coverage: national

This national report discusses the correlation between rising living costs, stagnant wages, and the increasing need for housing assistance programs across the U.S., emphasizing how these programs are essential in bridging the gap for low-income families.

Source: National Housing Conference

Coverage Area: national

Understanding the Role of Housing Assistance in Financial Stability

11/2/2021 | Coverage: national

This research paper from the American Psychological Association examines the psychological and economic benefits of housing assistance programs, providing evidence that such support fosters greater financial independence and community involvement.

Source: American Psychological Association

Coverage Area: national

Program Timeline

Housing and Economic Recovery Act

2/17/2008

This act provided federal funds to support state housing programs, including foreclosure assistance.

Bill: Housing and Economic Recovery Act
Party: Bipartisan

Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) established

8/3/1994

The HOME program was created to provide block grants to states for affordable housing activities.

Bill: National Affordable Housing Act
Party: Bipartisan

Tax Reform Act of 1986

1/1/1986

This act included provisions for low-income housing tax credits, significantly influencing affordable housing development.

Bill: Tax Reform Act of 1986
Party: Bipartisan

Creation of the Illinois Housing Development Authority

10/20/1977

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) was established to finance the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing.

Party: Bipartisan

FAQ

To apply for housing assistance, you can visit the Illinois Department of Commerce website or contact your local housing authority. You will typically need to provide personal information, income details, and any other documentation as required by the specific program you are applying for.

Before applying for housing assistance, make sure you have the following items ready:

  • Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license or state ID)
  • Income documentation (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns)
  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Rental or mortgage documents
  • Any previous housing assistance information

Having these documents prepared will streamline the application process.

Here are some important action items to consider when applying:

  1. Visit the Illinois Department of Commerce website for program details.
  2. Contact your local housing authority for assistance.
  3. Complete your application thoroughly to avoid delays.
  4. Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
  5. Follow up on your application status within a few weeks.

These steps will help ensure a smooth application process.

Reference: https://www.illinois.gov/dceo/CommunityPrograms/HousingAssistance/Pages/default.aspx

Please note that program availability may change and eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis.

The Illinois Department of Commerce offers a variety of housing assistance programs including rental assistance, mortgage assistance, emergency housing assistance, and support for homeless individuals and families. Each program is designed to meet specific needs and may have different eligibility requirements.

Reference: https://www.illinois.gov/dceo/Pages/default.aspx

Eligibility and funding availability may vary; please consult the official website for the most current information.

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