Cook County Launches Second Wave of $500 Monthly Checks

A new initiative in Cook County, Illinois, will provide residents with guaranteed monthly income checks of $500 as part of a renewed commitment to the Promise Pilot program. With an investment of $7.5 million, this program aims to extend financial support to low- and moderate-income families, building on the success of a previous two-year experiment that began in 2022.

The original Promise Pilot program delivered $500 monthly payments to approximately 3,200 households from 2022 until January 2025. Participants were selected through a lottery after submitting an application. According to the findings, the majority of recipients reported enhanced financial security, reduced stress levels, and improved mental health. Notably, 94% of those who participated used the funds to address unexpected financial emergencies, while 73% felt that the impact of these payments would be long-lasting.

Program Success and Future Goals

Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle expressed her enthusiasm for the program’s continuation, stating, “We launched the Promise Pilot to test a simple but powerful idea: that direct cash support helps residents live healthier, more stable lives.” Preckwinkle highlighted the positive early results and the importance of collaboration with partners and participants in shaping future guaranteed income initiatives.

The newly approved budget proposal emphasizes that the county will invest in direct, unconditional monetary support to aid residents in achieving stability. Research and equity will guide the development of these future programs, as outlined in the county’s communications.

The previous phase of the program demonstrated significant economic impact as well. Of the $19.5 million distributed annually, more than $8 million was spent at local businesses, while approximately $11 million aided household expenses. This infusion of cash not only supported families but also stimulated the local economy.

Personal Stories Highlighting Impact

Participants like Nikita Smith Jr. shared their transformational experiences. Smith described how receiving those checks felt like a milestone in her life. “Getting those checks was like I jump-started adulthood,” she said. “For the first time, I could budget, fix my car, and take a job that was a better fit for me at the time.”

She noted that the financial assistance enabled her to celebrate her son’s birthday without financial strain, illustrating the program’s broader social benefits. Smith’s story resonates with many others who found new opportunities and improved quality of life through the Promise Pilot.

As Cook County moves forward, it aims to build on these successes to create a sustainable model for guaranteed income that prioritizes research, equity, and dignity for all residents.