Cook County Promise Guaranteed Income Pilot
The Cook County Promise Guaranteed Income Pilot provided unconditional $500 monthly cash payments to 3,250 low-to-moderate-income families in Cook County for a period of two years. The County held an open application period in October 2022, and participants were selected by lottery in November 2022.
Payments began in December 2022 and continued through January 2025.
The program was supported through funding the County received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
For more information on the program, visit the Cook County Promise Guaranteed Income Pilot homepage.
What's next
In April 2025, the County announced early findings from the pilot program—as well as the formation of an advisory committee to guide the County’s next phase of guaranteed-income programming.
Survey findings indicate significant positive impacts for participants, including:
- 75% reported feeling more financially secure
- 94% experienced a financial emergency or unexpected expense and used program funds to manage it
- 73% believed the payments will continue to impact them after the program ends
- 56% reported reduced stress
- 70% said the program had a positive impact on their mental health
Learn more here: President Preckwinkle Unveils Next Phase of Guaranteed Income in Cook County
In November 2025, the Cook County Board of Commissioners approved $7.5 million for guaranteed income as part of the fiscal year 2026 budget. The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development is currently at the beginning of the design stage for the next phase of guaranteed-income programming, which is when details around applications, eligibility and program administration are determined. Program design is expected to be complete in mid- to late 2026.
Use this interest form to stay informed on future program announcements.
Questions?
For more information, email guaranteedincome@cookcountyil.gov.