ILLINOIS — If you’ve been thinking about buying an electric vehicle, now might be the perfect time. As of July 1, 2025, Illinois has expanded its EV rebate program, offering bigger payouts and broader eligibility — but the application window is limited.
Under the new rules announced by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), qualified residents can receive up to $4,000 in cash rebates for the purchase of a new electric vehicle. The updated program includes adjusted income thresholds, revised timelines, and a stronger push to support low-income households and clean transportation goals statewide.
What Changed in July 2025?
The EV rebate program, originally launched under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), was modified in July to include:
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$4,000 rebates for eligible new electric vehicle purchases
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$1,500 rebates for electric motorcycles
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Income-based prioritization, giving first access to low-income households
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Applications now open in rolling rounds, with specific closing deadlines
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Rebates issued on a first-come, first-served basis
You must purchase the vehicle from an Illinois-licensed dealer, and the rebate application must be submitted within 90 days of purchase.
The latest updates were confirmed by the Illinois EPA and are part of the state’s long-term plan to reduce vehicle emissions and boost clean energy transportation.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 EV Rebate?
To be eligible for a rebate in 2025, you must:
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Be a resident of Illinois
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Be at least 18 years old
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Purchase a new, fully electric vehicle (no hybrids)
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Not have received a rebate in a previous funding cycle
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Submit an application within 90 days of purchase
Applicants are encouraged to include proof of income — as priority is given to lower-income households under CEJA equity provisions.
Full program rules and required documents are listed on the official IEPA application portal.
What’s the Deadline?
The current rebate round opened on July 1, 2025 and is expected to remain open until September 30, 2025, or until funds run out — whichever comes first.
Illinois is using funds from its state climate budget and federal Inflation Reduction Act support to cover the rebates, but officials warn the money is limited.
Once funds are exhausted for this round, the next window may not reopen until 2026, depending on future legislation or budget reallocations.
How Much Can You Actually Save?
Here’s a quick breakdown of potential savings for Illinois drivers:
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New EV purchase: $4,000 rebate
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Electric motorcycle: $1,500 rebate
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Federal rebate stack: Up to $7,500 (if eligible under IRS rules)
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Total possible savings: $5,500–$11,500+
These rebates are in addition to federal EV incentives, which may be stackable depending on your income and vehicle type.
Why Illinois Is Offering Bigger Rebates Now
The push comes amid efforts to increase EV adoption in metro areas like Chicago, Naperville, and Rockford — where charging infrastructure is expanding.
Governor J.B. Pritzker’s administration said the new funding aligns with state climate targets and aims to make EVs more accessible to middle- and low-income households. The goal is to register 1 million electric vehicles in Illinois by 2030, according to the IEPA Clean Transportation Plan.
Have You Bought an EV in Illinois Recently?
Were you able to qualify for the rebate? Was the process smooth or frustrating? Share your experience in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — and help others in your community make informed decisions about electric vehicles.
