January 29, 2026 -The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has extended the current application cycle for the state’s Electric Vehicle Rebate Program through May 31, 2026, according to Acting Director James Jennings.
The application cycle was originally scheduled to close on January 31, 2026. Illinois EPA officials said all applications received through that date — including those from non–low-income applicants — will be processed as originally planned. After January 31, the agency will again prioritize low-income applications, as required under program rules.
Jennings said the extension reflects sustained interest in the program while allowing available funds to last longer than in previous cycles.
“We continue to see great interest in the program, but we are pleased to see funds available beyond the first few weeks, as we experienced in previous funding cycles,” Jennings said. “Legislative changes made in 2025 have proven effective in sustaining the program while prioritizing residents with the greatest need.”
The Illinois General Assembly appropriated $14 million for the EV Rebate Program in the current fiscal year, which runs through June 30, 2026. Illinois EPA said current applications represent only a portion of the available funding, though rebate amounts ultimately depend on funds available in the Electric Vehicle Rebate Fund.
Under the program, eligible applicants may receive a $2,000 rebate for the purchase of a new or used all-electric vehicle. Low-income applicants may qualify for an additional $2,000, for a total rebate of $4,000. Rebates for eligible electric motorcycles remain $1,500.
Other program requirements include:
-
Eligible vehicles must have a purchase price of $80,000 or less
-
Applicants must be Illinois residents
-
Vehicles must be purchased from a licensed Illinois dealership
-
Applicants must apply within 180 days of purchase
-
Vehicles must be owned for at least 12 consecutive months
-
Each individual may receive only one rebate
Income eligibility limits are outlined in the application materials, with low-income status based on 80% of the regional or county median income, as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Updated application forms and instructions are available on the Illinois EPA’s Electric Vehicle Rebate Program webpage. Questions may be directed to EPA.EV@Illinois.gov.
