If you’ve been feeling the pinch from rising property taxes and stagnant home values, you’re not alone—and help may finally be on the way.

Officials in one US county are rolling out a relief program that could provide $1,000 checks to thousands of homeowners.

With a $15 million pot and an estimated 14,000 households set to benefit, this initiative could be a lifeline for many.


If you own a home in Cook County, Illinois, you’ve probably noticed a troubling trend: property taxes are climbing, but your home’s value isn’t keeping pace.

Homeowner Kathy Mailes summed it up perfectly in a recent interview: “My property taxes have skyrocketed, and values have not.”

For many, this means tightening budgets, tough choices, and a growing sense of frustration.

Local officials have heard the outcry. After more than a year of research, outreach, and advocacy, the Cook County Homeowner Relief Fund is finally here.

Commissioner Bridget Gainer calls it “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 relief.”

Who’s Eligible for the $1,000 Check?​

Not everyone will qualify, but the program is designed to target those who need help most. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Property Tax Spike​

You must have experienced at least a 50% increase in your property tax bill in any year since 2021. That’s a big jump, and it’s the program’s way of focusing on those who’ve been hit the hardest.

2. Primary Residence​

The home you’re applying with must be your primary residence. No vacation homes or investment properties—this is about helping people stay in their homes.

3. Income Limits​

Your household income must be at or below the Area Median Income (AMI) for your household size. Here’s a quick look at the thresholds:

• 1 person: $84,000
• 2 people: $96,000
• 3 people: $108,000
• 4 people: $119,900
• 5 people: $129,500
• 6 people: $139,100
• 7 people: $148,700
• 8 people: $158,300

The more people in your household, the higher the income cap. For example, a family of three can earn up to $108,000 and still qualify.

How Does the Application Process Work?​

The process is straightforward but thorough, designed to ensure the money goes to those who truly need it.

Step 1: Initial Screening​

Start by filling out a basic application online. You’ll provide demographic and household information to see if you meet the initial criteria.

Step 2: Documentation​

If you pass the first round, you’ll be asked to submit documents—most importantly, proof of your property tax increase. This could be a tax bill or official notice showing the jump.

Step 3: The Lottery​

Here’s where it gets interesting: if more people qualify than there are funds available, recipients will be chosen by lottery. It’s a fair way to distribute limited resources, but it does mean not everyone who qualifies is guaranteed a check.


Also read: After 50 years, seniors say goodbye to their home—and hello to helping the next family

With $15 million set aside and an estimated 14,000 households eligible, the math is tight.

In some areas, like Park Forest, up to 90% of residents could qualify. If everyone applies, that’s a lot of need for a limited pot.

Park Forest’s economic and planning director, Sandra Zoellner, notes that if all eligible residents in her area receive the payment, it would mean $2.3 million in support just for that community.

While this $1,000 check is a welcome relief, local leaders are quick to point out that it’s a one-time event.

“Unfortunately, it’s a one-time event and it only may fix the issue for the 15,000 residents across Cook County this year, but we’re looking for long-term remedies,” Zoellner says.

The hope is that this program will spark broader reforms to make property taxes more manageable for everyone.


Also read: This grandmother just hit a $150,000 Powerball jackpot thanks to AI—what she did next will surprise you

What Should You Do Next?​

• Check Your Eligibility: Review your property tax bills since 2021. Did you see a 50% jump in any year?
• Gather Your Documents: You’ll need proof of your tax increase and income.
• Apply Online: The application window opened October 10. Don’t wait—funds are limited, and the sooner you apply, the better your chances.
• Spread the Word: Know a neighbor or friend who might qualify? Share this article and help them get the support they need.

Read next:

• Are you eligible for the new $1,000 payment making headlines across the US?
• Automatic $1,000 energy bill credit hitting bank accounts on November 15—see if you qualify

Are you a Cook County homeowner feeling the squeeze? Do you think this relief fund is a step in the right direction, or just a drop in the bucket? What long-term solutions would you like to see for property tax reform?