Guaranteed Income Program 2026

The Guaranteed Income program provides 102 qualifying Evanston families with $500 per month in unrestricted cash assistance for six months. It is designed to support low-income seniors and families with young children.

To qualify, applicants must be Evanston residents with a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level and be a full-time guardian of a child in second grade or younger, or be 55 years or older. 

All eligible applicants will be entered into a lottery on June 1, 2026, and will be notified by the City if selected for participation.

Application Process

Community members are invited to attend upcoming information sessions to learn more about the program and application process. Please bring a 2025 tax return to apply: 

• Thursday, May 7, at the Robert Crown Community Center (Room A) from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday, May 9, at the Robert Crown Community Center (Room A) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Both sessions will provide eligible residents with the opportunity to apply and receive guidance on the process. Additional information sessions will be added as they become available. Continue to check back frequently throughout the month. 

Can’t make an information session? Call 311 (847-448-4311) to schedule an appointment to determine eligibility and register for the program.

Who do I contact?

Please email gi@cityofevanston.org with any questions. Visit cityofevanston.org/events to view the City's events/meeting calendar for additional drop-in events.