THE MOVEMENT FOR A GUARANTEED INCOME
Welcome to the Union for a Guaranteed Income (U4GI)
We formed U4GI because we believe everyone should be able to care for themselves and their families, and still have money left over to live a good life. But the reality is that the cost of everything is through the roof–from rent to groceries to child care–and too many families are struggling to make ends meet.
$7.5 million in Cook County.
Together, the Worker Center for Racial Justice, Community Change Action and Equity & Transformation organized to win a historic $7.5 million allocation for a permanent guaranteed income program in Cook County to begin in 2026. We know that giving people direct cash is effective, and will help them pay off debt, cover groceries and transportation, and build a stronger foundation for their families.
Together – we’re fighting for more than just the promise of funds. People deserve a say in how the newly approved program is structured. People directly impacted should have a say in the decisions about who is eligible for the program, for how long, and how much they receive.
CHANGEWIRE
A Young Mother Turned Organizer Has Helped Lead a First-of-its-Kind Union for Guaranteed Income
Darryl Lorenzo Wellington reports on how 29-year-old Chicago native and U4GI leader Aurora helped bring guaranteed income to her county.
WHAT'S NEXT
We're expanding the guaranteed income movement across Illinois – and beyond.
From 2022 to 2024, Chicago and Cook County ran successful guaranteed income pilot programs that provided participants with $500 per month. The U4GI is building on this success. As of February 1, 2026, the U4GI has engaged tens of thousands of Cook County residents online and in the community, receiving support from 7,500 pledge signers for a guaranteed income. We need everyone to join so we can win the chance for all of us to live without financial stress, and with freedom and joy. We’re setting the example for what a permanent guaranteed income program could look like nationwide.
CHANGEWIRE
The Guaranteed Income Movement
Isn’t Just Improving Economic Conditions, It’s Building Power
Join the Movement
Too many of us across Chicago and Cook County are doing everything right and still can't catch a break. The cost of living keeps rising—groceries, rent, childcare, gas—and yet our paychecks stay the same. Together, we can make sure no one is forced to make impossible choices or put our dreams on hold.
Join Us