New Start Chicago

Implemented as a series of reforms to reduce the impact of regressive fines and fees on low-income communities, the programs below offer residents a “New Start” to get back on the path to compliance and economic opportunity.

 

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Administrative Debt Relief Program (ADR)

Available to low-income and current UBR and CPR households.
  • Eligible debt includes violations heard at DOAH and issued by City Departments such as DBACP, DOB, DSS, and CPD.
  • Get interest, costs, and fees waived by paying 50% of the fine amount or enrolling in a payment plan.

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Clear Path Relief Program (CPR)

Available to low-income and current UBR and ADR households.
  • Pay off recent vehicle debt to have older debt waived.
  • Applicants must have vehicle-related debt and be the registered owner of the vehicle.

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Utility Billing Relief Program (UBR)

Do you need assistance with paying your water or sewer bill? Find out more about the new Utility Billing Relief program!

  • No penalties or debt collection on past due City of Chicago utility bill debt.

  • 50% rate reduction for water charges, sewer charges, and water-sewer tax.

  • Debt forgiveness of previous unpaid balance after successfully completing 1-year in the program.

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Suspended License, Booting, Ticketing and Towing Reforms

The City has implemented new reforms around driver’s license suspension, booting, ticketing and towing. Find out more here.

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Fresh Start Debt Relief Program

For those who have entered Chapter 7 bankruptcy and need debt relief from City debt, the Fresh Start Program will be able to help you.

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Vehicle Impoundment Program Reforms

The City has reduced fines and limited fees for impounded vehicles, decreased the number of situations in which a vehicle can be impounded, and added new defenses to help residents get their cars back.

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