Cook County is dedicated to providing a high level of public service delivery while minimizing the use of taxpayer resources.
The County recognizes that the best method of achieving this goal is to incorporate strong, goal-oriented financial policies and practices into all of its operations. Through the use of strategic business planning and a sound resource allocation process, the County strives for fiscal resiliency that will ensure its core functions and missions are met even in the face of economic adversity.
Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, Series 2024
General Obligation Bond Ratings
Moody's Investors Service: A1 (Stable Outlook)
Fitch Ratings: AA (Positive Outlook)
Standard & Poor's: A+ (Stable Outlook)
Sales Tax Bond Ratings
Kroll Bond Rating Agency: AAA (Stable Outlook)
Standard & Poor's: AA- (Stable Outlook)
Fitch Ratings: AA (Positive Outlook)
Debt Portfolio
Cook County issues bonds pursuant to the County’s home rule powers under the 1970 Constitution of the State of Illinois and an authorizing ordinance adopted by the Cook County Board of Commissioners. Bond funds are used to finance various county projects and to refinance outstanding bonds.
Official Statements
The official statements provide detailed information about the outstanding bonds issued by the County. The full faith and credit of the County is pledged to payment of the principal and of interest on General Obligation bonds with a pledge of home rule sales tax revenues securing sales tax revenue bonds.
Credit Agreements
The County is a party to various credit agreements, including short term notes, Direct Pay variable rate agreements, Direct Placement variable rate agreements and an operating Line of Credit. Current credit agreements that the county is a party to are made available here.
Resources
Annual Financial Reports
The County prepares an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFT) in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Prior reports are available for review online here. Each report is for the County fiscal year ending November 30 of that year.
Current Budget Information
Detailed budget information including expenditure and revenue data on the current fiscal year is available here. The $8.8 billion Cook County budget guides work to achieve policy priorities on justice, health, economic development and the environment.
Pension Fund Information
The Cook County Pension Fund provides pension, disability and other benefits to employees of both Cook County and the Forest Preserve District. Detailed Annual Financial Reports and various statements for the pension fund are available by visiting this page.
Data & Analysis
Capital Plan
Judicious management of debt allows the County to enjoy investment grade bond ratings and lower cost of borrowing. Information regarding long-term debt management, debt structure and capital investment specifics can be reviewed here.
Revenue Forecasting
The Independent Revenue Forecasting Commission was created to develop and analyze the five-year revenue forecast developed by the Chief Financial Officer on an annual basis. These reports and quarterly updates are available here.
Cook County Bureau of Finance
161 N. Clark St., Suite 1075
Chicago, IL 60601
Hours
Monday–Friday
9 a.m. –5 p.m.