SNAP Benefits in Illinois: How to Apply and Qualify
Learn if you qualify for SNAP in Illinois. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Illinois: How to Apply and Qualify
Learn if you qualify for SNAP in Illinois. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Illinois: How to Apply and Qualify
Learn if you qualify for SNAP in Illinois. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Illinois: How to Apply and Qualify
Learn if you qualify for SNAP in Illinois. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SNAP Benefits in Illinois: How to Apply and Qualify
Learn if you qualify for SNAP in Illinois. Find income limits, benefit amounts, and how to apply for and manage your benefits.
Rishi Ahuja
Updated on:
Dec 15, 2025
Published on:
Sep 30, 2025
SHARE
ON THIS PAGE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly funds for groceries to low-income individuals and families in Illinois. This support helps you buy nutritious food for yourself and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Illinois
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Illinois and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. These income limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level, with most households capped at 165%.
Maximum benefit amounts are set by the USDA. The Illinois SNAP benefits 2025 figures below are the current amounts that took effect on October 1, 2024.
1 person: $2,071 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
2 people: $2,811 gross monthly income limit, $536 maximum benefit
3 people: $3,551 gross monthly income limit, $768 maximum benefit
4 people: $4,290 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
5 people: $5,030 gross monthly income limit, $1,158 maximum benefit
6 people: $5,770 gross monthly income limit, $1,390 maximum benefit
7 people: $6,510 gross monthly income limit, $1,536 maximum benefit
8 people: $7,249 gross monthly income limit, $1,756 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $740 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
If your household includes someone who is over 60 or has a disability, you may qualify with a higher income. For the most current information, check the official Illinois SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Illinois
To determine your Illinois SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross income generally cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, and your net income must be at or below 100% of the FPL.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Illinois and apply for benefits in the county where you reside, even if you are experiencing homelessness.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, such as a lawful permanent resident meeting certain conditions, a refugee, or an asylee, to meet the SNAP benefits eligibility for Illinois.
Work Requirements: Most adults aged 16-59 must register for work and accept suitable employment, while able-bodied adults without dependents face additional work rules to maintain benefits.
Special Conditions: Special rules apply to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and college students, which may affect income limits, deductions, and work requirements.
You can find complete details and current figures for all eligibility rules on the Illinois Department of Human Services SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Illinois
To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois, you can submit an application online, in person, or by mail. Each method is straightforward.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can complete the entire process from a computer or mobile device without needing to visit an office.
Visit the Illinois DHS website to access the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) portal. Create an account to fill out and submit your application electronically.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at a local office. Staff are available to answer questions and assist you with the application form.
You must apply at the Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) in your county of residence. Use the office locator on the DHS benefits page to find the correct location.
Mail-In Application
This method allows you to complete a paper form at your own pace. It is a good option if you do not have reliable internet access.
Download and print the application from the official SNAP forms page. Once you have filled it out and signed it, mail the form to your local FCRC for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Illinois
For help with your application, call the IDHS Customer Helpline at 1-800-843-6154.
Representatives can answer questions about your SNAP case and are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, excluding state holidays.
See Illinois EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois
After you're approved for SNAP, you'll need to know how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. In Illinois, this is called the Link card. It works very similarly to a debit card, allowing you to buy approved food items at participating stores.
To make a purchase, you just swipe your card and enter your private four-digit PIN. The cost of your groceries is then automatically taken from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items to help you and your family maintain a healthy diet. This includes a wide variety of groceries you would find at a supermarket.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Certain items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as they are not considered essential food items.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and household goods
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying organized with your SNAP benefits helps you track your balance, know when to expect deposits, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Illinois
In Illinois, your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. This date is determined by the last digit of your Head-of-Household ID number, helping you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
Check our Illinois deposit schedule for your specific payment date.
See Illinois EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the state's online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at your last ATM or store receipt.
Check out our guide for more details on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Illinois EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Illinois, you generally need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. Households with only elderly or disabled members may have a 24-month period. The state will mail you a renewal notice before your deadline arrives.
You can recertify online, by mail, or in person. Be prepared to provide recent proof of income, rent or mortgage payments, and utility bills. You must also report any changes to your household.
Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in your monthly benefits. If you miss the deadline, your case will close and you will have to reapply, which can cause a delay.
Special SNAP Services in Illinois
Illinois offers special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include expedited benefits for emergencies and assistance for households affected by disasters.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This service provides benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your household has very low income and assets under official rules. Apply via the standard SNAP application and tell the worker you need expedited service for a faster interview and decision.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. You may qualify if you lived in the disaster area and had related expenses. Apply during the announced window with proof of residence and disaster costs.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Destroyed in a Disaster
Current SNAP households can replace food lost in a disaster like a flood or power outage. You must report the loss to your local IDHS office by filing a form, typically within 10 days of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly funds for groceries to low-income individuals and families in Illinois. This support helps you buy nutritious food for yourself and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Illinois
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Illinois and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. These income limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level, with most households capped at 165%.
Maximum benefit amounts are set by the USDA. The Illinois SNAP benefits 2025 figures below are the current amounts that took effect on October 1, 2024.
1 person: $2,071 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
2 people: $2,811 gross monthly income limit, $536 maximum benefit
3 people: $3,551 gross monthly income limit, $768 maximum benefit
4 people: $4,290 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
5 people: $5,030 gross monthly income limit, $1,158 maximum benefit
6 people: $5,770 gross monthly income limit, $1,390 maximum benefit
7 people: $6,510 gross monthly income limit, $1,536 maximum benefit
8 people: $7,249 gross monthly income limit, $1,756 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $740 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
If your household includes someone who is over 60 or has a disability, you may qualify with a higher income. For the most current information, check the official Illinois SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Illinois
To determine your Illinois SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross income generally cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, and your net income must be at or below 100% of the FPL.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Illinois and apply for benefits in the county where you reside, even if you are experiencing homelessness.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, such as a lawful permanent resident meeting certain conditions, a refugee, or an asylee, to meet the SNAP benefits eligibility for Illinois.
Work Requirements: Most adults aged 16-59 must register for work and accept suitable employment, while able-bodied adults without dependents face additional work rules to maintain benefits.
Special Conditions: Special rules apply to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and college students, which may affect income limits, deductions, and work requirements.
You can find complete details and current figures for all eligibility rules on the Illinois Department of Human Services SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Illinois
To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois, you can submit an application online, in person, or by mail. Each method is straightforward.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can complete the entire process from a computer or mobile device without needing to visit an office.
Visit the Illinois DHS website to access the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) portal. Create an account to fill out and submit your application electronically.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at a local office. Staff are available to answer questions and assist you with the application form.
You must apply at the Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) in your county of residence. Use the office locator on the DHS benefits page to find the correct location.
Mail-In Application
This method allows you to complete a paper form at your own pace. It is a good option if you do not have reliable internet access.
Download and print the application from the official SNAP forms page. Once you have filled it out and signed it, mail the form to your local FCRC for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Illinois
For help with your application, call the IDHS Customer Helpline at 1-800-843-6154.
Representatives can answer questions about your SNAP case and are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, excluding state holidays.
See Illinois EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois
After you're approved for SNAP, you'll need to know how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. In Illinois, this is called the Link card. It works very similarly to a debit card, allowing you to buy approved food items at participating stores.
To make a purchase, you just swipe your card and enter your private four-digit PIN. The cost of your groceries is then automatically taken from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items to help you and your family maintain a healthy diet. This includes a wide variety of groceries you would find at a supermarket.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Certain items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as they are not considered essential food items.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and household goods
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying organized with your SNAP benefits helps you track your balance, know when to expect deposits, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Illinois
In Illinois, your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. This date is determined by the last digit of your Head-of-Household ID number, helping you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
Check our Illinois deposit schedule for your specific payment date.
See Illinois EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the state's online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at your last ATM or store receipt.
Check out our guide for more details on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Illinois EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Illinois, you generally need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. Households with only elderly or disabled members may have a 24-month period. The state will mail you a renewal notice before your deadline arrives.
You can recertify online, by mail, or in person. Be prepared to provide recent proof of income, rent or mortgage payments, and utility bills. You must also report any changes to your household.
Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in your monthly benefits. If you miss the deadline, your case will close and you will have to reapply, which can cause a delay.
Special SNAP Services in Illinois
Illinois offers special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include expedited benefits for emergencies and assistance for households affected by disasters.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This service provides benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your household has very low income and assets under official rules. Apply via the standard SNAP application and tell the worker you need expedited service for a faster interview and decision.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. You may qualify if you lived in the disaster area and had related expenses. Apply during the announced window with proof of residence and disaster costs.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Destroyed in a Disaster
Current SNAP households can replace food lost in a disaster like a flood or power outage. You must report the loss to your local IDHS office by filing a form, typically within 10 days of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly funds for groceries to low-income individuals and families in Illinois. This support helps you buy nutritious food for yourself and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Illinois
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Illinois and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. These income limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level, with most households capped at 165%.
Maximum benefit amounts are set by the USDA. The Illinois SNAP benefits 2025 figures below are the current amounts that took effect on October 1, 2024.
1 person: $2,071 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
2 people: $2,811 gross monthly income limit, $536 maximum benefit
3 people: $3,551 gross monthly income limit, $768 maximum benefit
4 people: $4,290 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
5 people: $5,030 gross monthly income limit, $1,158 maximum benefit
6 people: $5,770 gross monthly income limit, $1,390 maximum benefit
7 people: $6,510 gross monthly income limit, $1,536 maximum benefit
8 people: $7,249 gross monthly income limit, $1,756 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $740 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
If your household includes someone who is over 60 or has a disability, you may qualify with a higher income. For the most current information, check the official Illinois SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Illinois
To determine your Illinois SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross income generally cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, and your net income must be at or below 100% of the FPL.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Illinois and apply for benefits in the county where you reside, even if you are experiencing homelessness.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, such as a lawful permanent resident meeting certain conditions, a refugee, or an asylee, to meet the SNAP benefits eligibility for Illinois.
Work Requirements: Most adults aged 16-59 must register for work and accept suitable employment, while able-bodied adults without dependents face additional work rules to maintain benefits.
Special Conditions: Special rules apply to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and college students, which may affect income limits, deductions, and work requirements.
You can find complete details and current figures for all eligibility rules on the Illinois Department of Human Services SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Illinois
To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois, you can submit an application online, in person, or by mail. Each method is straightforward.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can complete the entire process from a computer or mobile device without needing to visit an office.
Visit the Illinois DHS website to access the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) portal. Create an account to fill out and submit your application electronically.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at a local office. Staff are available to answer questions and assist you with the application form.
You must apply at the Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) in your county of residence. Use the office locator on the DHS benefits page to find the correct location.
Mail-In Application
This method allows you to complete a paper form at your own pace. It is a good option if you do not have reliable internet access.
Download and print the application from the official SNAP forms page. Once you have filled it out and signed it, mail the form to your local FCRC for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Illinois
For help with your application, call the IDHS Customer Helpline at 1-800-843-6154.
Representatives can answer questions about your SNAP case and are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, excluding state holidays.
See Illinois EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois
After you're approved for SNAP, you'll need to know how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. In Illinois, this is called the Link card. It works very similarly to a debit card, allowing you to buy approved food items at participating stores.
To make a purchase, you just swipe your card and enter your private four-digit PIN. The cost of your groceries is then automatically taken from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items to help you and your family maintain a healthy diet. This includes a wide variety of groceries you would find at a supermarket.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Certain items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as they are not considered essential food items.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and household goods
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying organized with your SNAP benefits helps you track your balance, know when to expect deposits, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Illinois
In Illinois, your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. This date is determined by the last digit of your Head-of-Household ID number, helping you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
Check our Illinois deposit schedule for your specific payment date.
See Illinois EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the state's online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at your last ATM or store receipt.
Check out our guide for more details on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Illinois EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Illinois, you generally need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. Households with only elderly or disabled members may have a 24-month period. The state will mail you a renewal notice before your deadline arrives.
You can recertify online, by mail, or in person. Be prepared to provide recent proof of income, rent or mortgage payments, and utility bills. You must also report any changes to your household.
Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in your monthly benefits. If you miss the deadline, your case will close and you will have to reapply, which can cause a delay.
Special SNAP Services in Illinois
Illinois offers special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include expedited benefits for emergencies and assistance for households affected by disasters.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This service provides benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your household has very low income and assets under official rules. Apply via the standard SNAP application and tell the worker you need expedited service for a faster interview and decision.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. You may qualify if you lived in the disaster area and had related expenses. Apply during the announced window with proof of residence and disaster costs.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Destroyed in a Disaster
Current SNAP households can replace food lost in a disaster like a flood or power outage. You must report the loss to your local IDHS office by filing a form, typically within 10 days of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHARE
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly funds for groceries to low-income individuals and families in Illinois. This support helps you buy nutritious food for yourself and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Illinois
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Illinois and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. These income limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level, with most households capped at 165%.
Maximum benefit amounts are set by the USDA. The Illinois SNAP benefits 2025 figures below are the current amounts that took effect on October 1, 2024.
1 person: $2,071 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
2 people: $2,811 gross monthly income limit, $536 maximum benefit
3 people: $3,551 gross monthly income limit, $768 maximum benefit
4 people: $4,290 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
5 people: $5,030 gross monthly income limit, $1,158 maximum benefit
6 people: $5,770 gross monthly income limit, $1,390 maximum benefit
7 people: $6,510 gross monthly income limit, $1,536 maximum benefit
8 people: $7,249 gross monthly income limit, $1,756 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $740 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
If your household includes someone who is over 60 or has a disability, you may qualify with a higher income. For the most current information, check the official Illinois SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Illinois
To determine your Illinois SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross income generally cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, and your net income must be at or below 100% of the FPL.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Illinois and apply for benefits in the county where you reside, even if you are experiencing homelessness.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, such as a lawful permanent resident meeting certain conditions, a refugee, or an asylee, to meet the SNAP benefits eligibility for Illinois.
Work Requirements: Most adults aged 16-59 must register for work and accept suitable employment, while able-bodied adults without dependents face additional work rules to maintain benefits.
Special Conditions: Special rules apply to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and college students, which may affect income limits, deductions, and work requirements.
You can find complete details and current figures for all eligibility rules on the Illinois Department of Human Services SNAP page.
Download Benny app to save on groceries
Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score
Download the app
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Illinois
To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois, you can submit an application online, in person, or by mail. Each method is straightforward.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can complete the entire process from a computer or mobile device without needing to visit an office.
Visit the Illinois DHS website to access the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) portal. Create an account to fill out and submit your application electronically.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at a local office. Staff are available to answer questions and assist you with the application form.
You must apply at the Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) in your county of residence. Use the office locator on the DHS benefits page to find the correct location.
Mail-In Application
This method allows you to complete a paper form at your own pace. It is a good option if you do not have reliable internet access.
Download and print the application from the official SNAP forms page. Once you have filled it out and signed it, mail the form to your local FCRC for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Illinois
For help with your application, call the IDHS Customer Helpline at 1-800-843-6154.
Representatives can answer questions about your SNAP case and are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, excluding state holidays.
See Illinois EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois
After you're approved for SNAP, you'll need to know how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. In Illinois, this is called the Link card. It works very similarly to a debit card, allowing you to buy approved food items at participating stores.
To make a purchase, you just swipe your card and enter your private four-digit PIN. The cost of your groceries is then automatically taken from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items to help you and your family maintain a healthy diet. This includes a wide variety of groceries you would find at a supermarket.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Certain items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as they are not considered essential food items.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and household goods
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying organized with your SNAP benefits helps you track your balance, know when to expect deposits, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Illinois
In Illinois, your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. This date is determined by the last digit of your Head-of-Household ID number, helping you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
Check our Illinois deposit schedule for your specific payment date.
See Illinois EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the state's online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at your last ATM or store receipt.
Check out our guide for more details on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Illinois EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Illinois, you generally need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. Households with only elderly or disabled members may have a 24-month period. The state will mail you a renewal notice before your deadline arrives.
You can recertify online, by mail, or in person. Be prepared to provide recent proof of income, rent or mortgage payments, and utility bills. You must also report any changes to your household.
Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in your monthly benefits. If you miss the deadline, your case will close and you will have to reapply, which can cause a delay.
Special SNAP Services in Illinois
Illinois offers special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include expedited benefits for emergencies and assistance for households affected by disasters.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This service provides benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your household has very low income and assets under official rules. Apply via the standard SNAP application and tell the worker you need expedited service for a faster interview and decision.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. You may qualify if you lived in the disaster area and had related expenses. Apply during the announced window with proof of residence and disaster costs.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Destroyed in a Disaster
Current SNAP households can replace food lost in a disaster like a flood or power outage. You must report the loss to your local IDHS office by filing a form, typically within 10 days of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly funds for groceries to low-income individuals and families in Illinois. This support helps you buy nutritious food for yourself and your family.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Illinois
Your eligibility for SNAP benefits in Illinois and the amount you receive depend on your household's gross monthly income. These income limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level, with most households capped at 165%.
Maximum benefit amounts are set by the USDA. The Illinois SNAP benefits 2025 figures below are the current amounts that took effect on October 1, 2024.
1 person: $2,071 gross monthly income limit, $292 maximum benefit
2 people: $2,811 gross monthly income limit, $536 maximum benefit
3 people: $3,551 gross monthly income limit, $768 maximum benefit
4 people: $4,290 gross monthly income limit, $975 maximum benefit
5 people: $5,030 gross monthly income limit, $1,158 maximum benefit
6 people: $5,770 gross monthly income limit, $1,390 maximum benefit
7 people: $6,510 gross monthly income limit, $1,536 maximum benefit
8 people: $7,249 gross monthly income limit, $1,756 maximum benefit
For each additional person: Add $740 to the income limit and $220 to the maximum benefit.
If your household includes someone who is over 60 or has a disability, you may qualify with a higher income. For the most current information, check the official Illinois SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Illinois
To determine your Illinois SNAP benefits eligibility, you must meet several requirements related to your income, residency, and work status.
Income Limits: Your household's gross income generally cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, and your net income must be at or below 100% of the FPL.
Residency Requirements: You must live in Illinois and apply for benefits in the county where you reside, even if you are experiencing homelessness.
Citizenship Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen, such as a lawful permanent resident meeting certain conditions, a refugee, or an asylee, to meet the SNAP benefits eligibility for Illinois.
Work Requirements: Most adults aged 16-59 must register for work and accept suitable employment, while able-bodied adults without dependents face additional work rules to maintain benefits.
Special Conditions: Special rules apply to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and college students, which may affect income limits, deductions, and work requirements.
You can find complete details and current figures for all eligibility rules on the Illinois Department of Human Services SNAP page.
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How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Illinois
To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois, you can submit an application online, in person, or by mail. Each method is straightforward.
Online Application
Applying online is often the fastest method. You can complete the entire process from a computer or mobile device without needing to visit an office.
Visit the Illinois DHS website to access the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) portal. Create an account to fill out and submit your application electronically.
In-Person Application
If you prefer face-to-face help, you can apply at a local office. Staff are available to answer questions and assist you with the application form.
You must apply at the Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) in your county of residence. Use the office locator on the DHS benefits page to find the correct location.
Mail-In Application
This method allows you to complete a paper form at your own pace. It is a good option if you do not have reliable internet access.
Download and print the application from the official SNAP forms page. Once you have filled it out and signed it, mail the form to your local FCRC for processing.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Illinois
For help with your application, call the IDHS Customer Helpline at 1-800-843-6154.
Representatives can answer questions about your SNAP case and are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, excluding state holidays.
See Illinois EBT Customer Service Contacts
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois
After you're approved for SNAP, you'll need to know how to use your benefits, what you can buy, and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
Your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. In Illinois, this is called the Link card. It works very similarly to a debit card, allowing you to buy approved food items at participating stores.
To make a purchase, you just swipe your card and enter your private four-digit PIN. The cost of your groceries is then automatically taken from your SNAP account balance.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items to help you and your family maintain a healthy diet. This includes a wide variety of groceries you would find at a supermarket.
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Breads and cereals
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
It is also important to know what you cannot buy with your EBT card. Certain items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as they are not considered essential food items.
Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
Hot foods that are ready to eat
Non-food items like pet foods, cleaning supplies, and household goods
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Staying organized with your SNAP benefits helps you track your balance, know when to expect deposits, and renew on time.
EBT Deposit Schedule in Illinois
In Illinois, your SNAP benefits are deposited on the same day each month. This date is determined by the last digit of your Head-of-Household ID number, helping you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
Check our Illinois deposit schedule for your specific payment date.
See Illinois EBT deposit schedule for 2025
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
You can check your balance through the state's online portal, the Benny app, by calling the number on your card, or by looking at your last ATM or store receipt.
Check out our guide for more details on how to check your EBT balance.
Check Your Illinois EBT Balance
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and others.
To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance
Download the app
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Illinois, you generally need to renew your SNAP benefits every 12 months. Households with only elderly or disabled members may have a 24-month period. The state will mail you a renewal notice before your deadline arrives.
You can recertify online, by mail, or in person. Be prepared to provide recent proof of income, rent or mortgage payments, and utility bills. You must also report any changes to your household.
Submitting your renewal on time prevents any interruption in your monthly benefits. If you miss the deadline, your case will close and you will have to reapply, which can cause a delay.
Special SNAP Services in Illinois
Illinois offers special SNAP services for urgent needs. These include expedited benefits for emergencies and assistance for households affected by disasters.
Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)
This service provides benefits within seven days. You may qualify if your household has very low income and assets under official rules. Apply via the standard SNAP application and tell the worker you need expedited service for a faster interview and decision.
Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)
After a federally declared disaster, D-SNAP helps you buy food. You may qualify if you lived in the disaster area and had related expenses. Apply during the announced window with proof of residence and disaster costs.
Replacement SNAP Benefits for Food Destroyed in a Disaster
Current SNAP households can replace food lost in a disaster like a flood or power outage. You must report the loss to your local IDHS office by filing a form, typically within 10 days of the event.
