Lake County Rental Assistance (LCRA)
The application period for renters is currently CLOSED. Landlords may still apply using the landlord application form found at https://lakecountyil.gov/renthelp
Applicants May Qualify for Up To 6 Months of Rental Assistance (May Include 1 Month of Future Rent)
- Are behind on rent
- Meet household income qualifications (50% AMI /lower)
- Have received less than 6 months of assistance through previous rent assistance programs (LCRA+FERA).
If you need assistance or have questions about this program, please contact our Housing Assistance Coordinator.
Toni Martinez
847-263-7478 Ext. 30
tmartinez@cpahousing.org.
Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) and Lake County Eviction Prevention Program (LCEPP)
CBRAP and LCEEP are for residents in eviction court (with an assigned case number) who suffered financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. These programs are still open and taking applications. Tenants must be in a court-eviction proceeding and provide eviction court documentation. Proof of citizenship is NOT required. To determine which program is best for you, contact our Housing Assistance Coordinator.
Toni Martinez
847-263-7478 Ext. 30
tmartinez@cpahousing.org.
Rental Assistance Program Income Limits
|
Household Size
|
1
|
2
|
3
|
4
|
5
|
6
|
7
|
8
|
|
80% AMI
|
$58,350
|
$66,700
|
$75,050
|
$83,350
|
$90,050
|
$96,700
|
$103,400
|
$110,050
|
Tips for Renters
- If your income decreased as a result of COVID-19 and you currently receive a housing voucher or project-based housing subsidy, contact the program administrator right away to request an interim income re-certification to lower your rent contribution. Here is a sample letter requesting an interim re certification.
- Contact your landlord early and often if you know that you will have trouble paying rent due to COVID-19. Here is a sample letter. Keep all communication with your landlord in writing whenever possible, especially any agreement to reduce or defer rent because of COVID-19.
- Avoid cash payments without receipts.
- Develop a realistic budget and attempt to develop a repayment plan with your landlord. CPAH’s HUD-Certified Housing Counselors offers free financial counseling and can help you with “Crisis Budgeting.”
- When speaking with your landlord, utility companies and other lenders, consider asking the following questions:
- When will you expect me to repay my missed payments?
- Are payment plans available?
- What fines and fees will I be subject to?
- Will my outstanding balance accrue interest?
- If you’ve lost employment income, you can file for unemployment benefits at the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES)