Chicago Is Handing Out $500 Monthly! Here’s How to Get Yours Before It’s Too Late

Big news for Windy City residents: the City of Chicago is launching a new guaranteed income program offering $500 per month to qualifying individuals, no strings attached. If you’re struggling to make ends meet, this could be your chance to get some much-needed breathing room.

This latest effort, part of the Chicago Empowerment Fund, is an expansion of the city’s previous pilot program and aims to support residents dealing with economic hardship. Over the course of one year, selected participants will receive $6,000 total, paid out monthly.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the program, you must meet a few basic requirements:

• Live in the City of Chicago

• Be 18 years or older

• Have a household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty line (for example, around $37,650 per year for a single person, or $77,500 for a family of four)

There’s no requirement to be employed, and the funds can be used however you like — rent, food, bills, or savings.

How to Apply

The application portal isn’t open just yet, but officials say it will be launching soon. When it does, you’ll be able to apply online through the City of Chicago’s official website. It’s a simple process, but here’s the catch — applicants will be selected through a lottery system, so getting your application in early could give you an edge.

Keep an eye on the City of Chicago’s Empowerment Fund page for real-time updates and the official opening date.

When Will Payments Start?

Once selected, participants will start receiving their $500 monthly payments via direct deposit or prepaid debit cards. The city is expected to start issuing the first payments within weeks after the selection process wraps up.

Background: Why Is Chicago Doing This?

This program builds on the success of the Chicago Resilient Communities Pilot, which launched in 2022 and provided monthly cash payments to 5,000 low-income households. That pilot program proved so impactful that city officials have committed more funding to make it a long-term solution for poverty and economic insecurity.

Mayor Brandon Johnson has emphasized that guaranteed income programs are a tool to “empower families to meet their basic needs and plan for their future without the pressure of financial instability.”

Bottom Line

This is real money, and it’s up for grabs, $500 a month for a year could make a serious difference for many Chicago families. If you think you might qualify, start gathering your documents now and bookmark the official site so you’re ready to apply when the time comes.

Want updates on when the application opens? Let me know, and I’ll send you a reminder!