Who Can Get $500 a Month? New Details on America’s First Permanent Guaranteed Income Program

Cook County, Illinois, has become the first place in the U.S. to make a guaranteed income program permanent, following strong results from its earlier pilot.

County officials approved $7.5 million in the 2026 budget to continue the effort, which began with $42 million in federal pandemic funding.

The program provides $500 a month with no conditions to eligible low- and middle-income households. Its goal is to offer simple, reliable support for families facing high costs for food, rent, utilities, childcare, and transportation.

 

What Is the Program?

Guaranteed income gives people direct monthly cash payments, without requiring specific work or spending rules.

Cook County’s pilot reached 3,250 households, giving each one $500 a month.

 

Who Is Eligible?

Final eligibility rules for the permanent phase will be announced soon, but officials say the criteria will likely mirror the pilot. That means priority for:

• Low- and moderate-income Cook County residents

• Households experiencing financial stress

• Individuals needing help with essentials like rent, food, and transportation

The pilot’s success drove the decision to continue the program. A county survey showed:

• 75% felt more financially stable

• 94% used the payments for urgent needs

• Many reported lower stress and better mental health

 

How Much Can Applicants Receive?

The program continues to offer:

$500 per month, no strings attached.

The new funding ensures the program can keep operating as Cook County finalizes how many households will be included in future rounds.

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