All Laws Decoded

Section 8 in Illinois: Housing Authorities and How to Apply

Section 8 (the Housing Choice Voucher program) is run by local public housing agencies (PHAs). You apply to the agency that serves where you want to live; many keep waiting lists that open only at times. Here are the agencies serving Illinois's largest areas, from HUD's official contact list and each agency's site.

Is it illegal for a Illinois landlord to refuse Section 8? Yes. Since Jan. 1, 2023 the Illinois Human Rights Act bars refusing to rent, discriminatory terms, discriminatory ads or application forms, and screening criteria with a discriminatory effect based on 'source of income', defined as the lawful manner by which a person supports themselves and their dependents. 775 ILCS 5/1-103(O-5); 775 ILCS 5/3-102 (P.A. 102-896, eff. 1-1-23)

Housing authorities in Illinois

Source: HUD public housing agency contact list. Check the agency's own site before applying; waiting lists open and close.

Statewide housing agency

Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) — Runs the Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program for tenants with a pending eviction case, plus the Rental Housing Support Program and information for applicants and tenants of IHDA-financed housing. Main phone (312) 836-5200.

Help paying rent in Illinois

How to apply

  1. Find the housing authority for the city or county where you want to live (list above).
  2. Check whether its voucher waiting list is open; many open for short windows or use a lottery.
  3. Apply only through the agency's official site or office. Applying is free — no one may charge you to get on a list.
  4. Keep your contact information current with the agency so you do not lose your place.
  5. When a voucher is issued, you find a rental whose rent fits the agency's payment standard and that passes inspection.

Rent levels (HUD Fair Market Rent) and local help by county

Illinois tenant rights · Free legal help in Illinois · Section 8 in other states

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.