Illinois Benefits


AllKids

Illinois all kids program is an initiative by the state of Illinois, dedicated to providing quality and affordable health insurance, for children regardless of their present health condition or immigration status. Based on the belief that children are an essential part of a growing nation, the Illinois All Kids program provides health insurance for those kids who are in families that cannot afford private health Insurance. Simply put the Illinois all kids program ensures kids grow up healthy by giving them comprehensive yet affordable health Insurance.


Financial Aid

Financial aid is available in Illinois for low-income households, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. This support includes help with housing, food, and medical expenses. Additional benefits include child care and family support, employment and job training, healthcare assistance, and much more.


Food Stamps (SNAP)

The Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP in the state of Illinois. Eligible applicants receive food assistance benefits, which are automatically transferred to an electronic card, called the Illinois link card. The first step in applying for food assistance is submitting a SNAP application to your nearest DHS office. Expect an interview after the DHS office processes your completed application. The DHS office determines your eligibility based on your total household income, how many people live in your household and whether any household member is disabled or elderly.


LIHEAP

Illinois Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income residents of Illinois to pay their heating bills during winter. The financial aid is provided once to help the eligible households pay their energy bills or repair heating equipment.


Medicaid

Illinois Medicaid is an initiative by the state of Illinois and the federal government that caters for the medical fees of children, pregnant women, the disabled, and senior citizens who are above 65 years of age.


SSDI

In Illinois, residents who meet the eligibility requirements can take advantage of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. This program is designed to support individuals in Illinois who are unable to work due to a disability.


TANF

The Illinois Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program helps families with children by offering financial support and job assistance for up to 60 months. Families can also get health care benefits through Medicaid and assistance with child care while parents work or attend job training.


TEFAP

Illinois' TEFAP, with USDA support, offers foods like dried beans, canned chicken, and fresh carrots to those in need. Local food banks distribute these nutritious items, reaching low-income residents across the state.


Unemployment

Unemployment benefits in Illinois provide money to people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. The Illinois Department of Employment Security oversees the state's unemployment program. A claim must be filed with the Department of Employment Security in order to receive benefits. Past employment earnings determine the benefit amount.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) is the organizing body for the state's unemployment insurance program. It ensures the state laws concerning unemployment compensation through its application, certification and appeals process. Illinois' unemployment insurance law mans all aspects of the program, including who's eligible for benefits and how much they can be awarded through the program. The appeals and overpayment processes are also determined by law.


Veterans Disability

In Illinois, Veterans Disability Benefits are provided to veterans who sustained injuries or developed a medical condition during their active military service. These financial benefits are just one way we thank veterans for their service. In addition to disability benefits, Illinois veterans can access a variety of benefits including VA Life Insurance, comprehensive healthcare services, Dependents and Survivor Benefits, and much more.


WAP

The Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program also known as IHWAP provides assistance in the form of energy conservation measures. This includes air sealing, insulation in walls and attics, window and door weatherization and furnace repairs and replacements. A maximum of $7,500 is what the program offers in repairs and energy conservation measures. The program is available to residents throughout the state of Illinois who meet particular eligibility criteria. Applicants must have an income that is no more than 200 percent of the federal poverty level.


WIC

Illinois WIC provides different nutrition and health benefits to low-income women, children, and infants living in Illinois. WIC participants receive vouchers for nutritious food, nutrition education, support, and referral to other health care services.