The Cook County Board of Commissioners has approved a new $15 million Homeowner Relief Fund to help residents whose property tax bills have increased steeply over the past few years.

This new fund will provide quick financial relief while Cook County continues working on long-term property tax reforms with the Property Tax Reform Group (PTAX). The PTAX includes key offices involved in the tax system and is focused on creating fairer tax policies across the board.

The fund, managed by the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development, will offer one-time payments of $1,000 to qualifying households. Applications are expected to open this summer, and payments will follow soon after.

"It's crucial that we support homeowners struggling with rising property tax bills," said County Board President Toni Preckwinkle via a press release. "This fund offers immediate help for those most affected while we work on broader, lasting solutions."

To qualify, households must earn at or below 100 percent of the area median income for their household size. For instance, a family of four earning $119,900 or less could be eligible. Applicants must also show that their property tax bill has increased by at least 50 percent in any year since 2021.

The program will be run by AidKit, Inc., which will handle the application process, provide support, review submissions, and distribute the $1,000 payments. If more people apply than funds allow, a lottery system may be used to select recipients.

Commissioner Bridget Gainer, representing the 10th District, hosted a public hearing in September where homeowners shared their experiences and concerns.

"We've talked with thousands of homeowners who are struggling to keep up," Gainer said. "Property taxes are growing faster than people's incomes, forcing families out of their neighborhoods. This fund is a step toward offering them the support they need now while we fight for real, long-term reform in Springfield."

The Cook County board approved the fund's creation in Oct. 2024, and it became part of the 2025 budget passed in November.