West Cook News

Cook County officials have announced an extension and expansion of the Cook County Homeowner Relief Fund, a $15 million initiative aimed at helping homeowners who have seen significant property tax increases in recent years. The deadline to apply for the program has been extended to October 31, 2025.

Under the revised guidelines, eligibility for the program now includes homeowners who experienced a property tax increase of at least 30%—a reduction from the previous threshold of 50%—during the 2021, 2022, or 2023 tax years. Additionally, applicants must have a household income at or below 100% of the county’s Area Median Income and must occupy their property as their primary residence. Selected recipients will receive a one-time assistance payment of $1,000.

“We want to ensure as many eligible Cook County households as possible are able to apply for this measure of relief,” said President Preckwinkle. “While the Homeowner Relief Fund is just one part of our broader effort to advance system-wide property tax reforms, our priority is to make sure the available program funds make it into the hands of our residents.”

Commissioner Bridget Gainer added, "The Homeowner Relief Fund is the culmination of over a year of outreach, research and policy advocacy that will allow us to provide relief to homeowners in need of a lifeline as we work towards sustainable property tax relief. I'm proud to have made this critical program a reality to keep families in their homes and neighborhoods and protect their greatest asset to build wealth: homeownership."

Homeowners who previously applied for assistance do not need to reapply; all existing applications will be reviewed using the updated eligibility requirements.

Launched on September 29, 2025, the Homeowner Relief Fund offers immediate support while Cook County continues efforts toward comprehensive property tax reform through its Property Tax Reform Group (PTAX). This group includes various elected offices working together on long-term solutions.

In addition to this fund, Cook County offers other programs such as the Modular Homes Pilot Program and Down Payment Assistance Program. The county also provides support through initiatives like Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt and 211 Metro Chicago for residents facing financial challenges.

Community-based organizations across Cook County are available to help applicants, offering assistance in multiple languages. More information about the Homeowner Relief Fund can be found on the official website: cookcountyil.gov/service/cook-county-homeowner-relief-fund.