Housing Assistance Resources in Illinois

Last updated September 5, 2026

If you or someone you know is facing housing instability in Illinois — whether that means struggling to pay rent, at risk of eviction, experiencing homelessness, or living in unsafe conditions — real help is available. Illinois has a network of state, federal, and local programs designed to keep people housed and connect those without shelter to safe options.

The fastest way to find local housing help in Illinois is to call or text 211. Operated by United Way, 2-1-1 Illinois connects callers to rental assistance, emergency shelter, utility aid, and other services specific to their county. Specialists are available around the clock and can assist in multiple languages.

For longer-term housing solutions, Illinois residents may also work through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), and HUD-funded programs in their region. The resources below are a strong starting point — a social worker or case manager can help you navigate whichever programs fit your situation best.

Key programs in Illinois

2-1-1 Illinois (United Way)

A free, confidential helpline that connects Illinois residents to local emergency shelter, rental assistance, eviction prevention, utility help, and other housing-related services by county.

How to access: Call or text 211, available 24/7. You can also search online at 211.org. A specialist will assess your needs and provide referrals to programs in your area.

HUD Continuum of Care (CoC) Program

Federally funded network of local organizations across Illinois that provide transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, and rapid re-housing services for people experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk.

How to access: Access is typically through a local Coordinated Entry system. Call 211 to be connected to your regional CoC or visit HUD.gov to find Illinois CoC contacts. In the Chicago area, contact the Chicago Department of Housing or contact All Chicago.

Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) – Housing Assistance Programs

IDHS administers and funds a range of housing supports for low-income Illinois residents, including homeless prevention programs and connections to emergency shelter. IDHS also oversees the Illinois Rental Payment Program when state-funded rental assistance is available.

How to access: Visit dhs.illinois.gov or call your local IDHS Family Community Resource Center. You can find your nearest office using the office locator on the IDHS website.

Section 8 / Housing Choice Voucher Program (Illinois PHAs)

Federally funded rental assistance administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across Illinois. Vouchers help eligible low-income households afford privately owned rental housing by subsidizing a portion of the rent.

How to access: Apply through your local PHA — there is no single statewide application. Waitlists are often long. Find your local PHA at HUD.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts or call 211 for referrals. In Chicago, contact the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA).

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – Illinois

While primarily a utility assistance program, LIHEAP helps Illinois households maintain stable housing by covering heating and cooling costs, reducing the risk of utility shutoffs that can destabilize tenancy.

How to access: Apply through your local Community Action Agency or IDHS office. Visit illinois.gov or call 217-785-6135 (IDHS Community Services helpline) to find an application site near you. Eligibility is income-based.

Housing Assistance resources for Illinois

211 Housing & Shelter

Nationwide

Local shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.

211
Visit

HUD Housing Counseling

Nationwide

Free HUD-approved housing counseling on rent, foreclosure, homelessness, and fair housing.

1-800-569-4287
Visit

National Low Income Housing Coalition

Nationwide

Resources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.

Visit
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