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Date: 03/29/2026

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  4. What you need to know about Just Housing in Cook County

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What you need to know about Just Housing in Cook County
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Acknowledgements

Funded by
Illinois Access to Justice Program

In Cook County, landlords cannot legally use criminal history as the only factor in deciding whether to rent to a potential tenant. A person who rents a space Just Housing is a part of the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance. A law or rule made by a local government like a town or city It sets rules for the rental application process, and protects the rights of people with criminal records, to ensure they have access to safe, stable and affordable housing. 

Learn more about Cook County housing rights for people with a criminal record and the process all Cook County landlords must follow.

Note: This video is also available with Spanish subtitles. 

Last full review by a subject matter expert
March 24, 2026
Last revised by staff
March 24, 2026

About our legal information

Learn more

Cook County housing rights for people with a criminal record
Fair housing in Illinois

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Learn more

Cook County housing rights for people with a criminal record
Fair housing in Illinois
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ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.