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When dealing with the housing system, it is important for you to know that you have rights. There are policies in place to protect you from discrimination and unlawful treatment. Below is information for you to keep in mind as you go through the process of securing housing.
Statewide
The Illinois Department of Human Rights includes support for, and resources related to Fair Housing, the federal law that make it illegal to discriminate against people in housing based on these characteristics:
Race
Color
Ancestry
National Origin
Religion
Sex (including sexual harassment)
Familial Status
Disability
Finding Legal Help
Below are links to free legal resources:
Statewide:
Northern and Central IL:
Chicago:
Free Legal Services To People Living In Poverty - Legal Aid Chicago
Central and Southern IL:
Free Legal Services To People Living In Poverty - Legal Aid Chicago
Information on Income Protections
Under the Illinois Human Rights Act, property managers cannot reject someone who applies for housing based on their source of income. For example, an applicant cannot be turned down because they have a Housing Choice Voucher (formerly known as Section 8) or Social Security income. If a housing provider in Illinois states they do not accept vouchers, that would be illegal, as it would be discrimination based on the source or type of income that will be used to pay rent. Click here to learn more.
Appeals and Reasonable Accommodations
Under Fair Housing law, you have the right to ask for a change, exception, or adjustment to a housing rule, policy, practice, or service to enjoy the place where you live (or want to live) like anyone else if your request relates to your disability. This is known as reasonable accommodations.
Here is a link to a tool on reasonable accommodations, including explanations and templates to support you with your request.
People Impacted by Incarceration
If you have been in jail or prison, click here to learn more about your rights from the Illinois Coalition to End Permanent Punishment.
Information for those in Cook County
Have an eviction record?
If you are applying for housing with an eviction(s) on your record, you have protections and rights as well. Here is a brochure that gives more information that can help as you apply for housing.
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