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Answer

What is a Special Service Area (SSA)?

A Special Service Area (SSA) is a defined commercial district where properties pay a small extra tax to fund enhanced local services like streetscaping, marketing, security, and facade help. Chicago has 58 active SSAs, each run by a local delegate agency.

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What to know

  • Benefits are automatic by location — no application is needed to receive the core services.
  • Each SSA is managed by a delegate agency (a chamber, EDO, or nonprofit) that may run sub-grants.
  • Common services: streetscaping, business marketing, public safety, and facade improvement assistance.
  • Find your corridor's delegate agency on the City's SSA Provider List.

Related programs

Special Service Area

Sources

This is a discovery tool, not legal, tax, or eligibility advice. Confirm current requirements with the administering agency before applying, certifying, or relying on any program listed here.

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