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.

 

Do you need to figure out which programs can help you?

View Frequently Asked Questions

Penalties and fees temporarily waived for eligible violations that are paid in full by June 30, 2025.

Visit Page

  • 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.

Visit Page

  • Pay off recent vehicle debt to have older debt waived.
  • Applicants must have vehicle-related debt and be the registered owner of the vehicle.

Visit Page

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.

Visit Page

 The Water Leak Relief Pilot (LRP) Program is a new pilot program that seeks to provide debt relief to eligible customers who experience water leaks that cause unexpected increases in their bills. The LRP is a 2-year pilot program that will run from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2026. This program is available for eligible properties with eligible leaks retroactive back to January 1, 2023, and is available one time per utility billing account.

Visit Page

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.

Visit Page

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.

Visit Page

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.

Visit Page