Special SNAP Services in Illinois

Illinois offers special SNAP services for households facing emergencies or disasters. These programs, like Expedited SNAP and D-SNAP, provide faster access to food assistance during urgent situations.

Expedited SNAP (Emergency SNAP)

Expedited SNAP provides food assistance within seven days to households that cannot wait for the standard processing period. This service is for those with immediate food needs.

Eligibility is based on having very low income and assets. Per the official rule, you may qualify if:

• Your liquid assets are $100 or less and gross monthly income is under $150.

• Your combined cash and income are less than your rent/mortgage and utilities.

• You are a destitute migrant or seasonal farmworker with $100 or less in assets.

Apply using the regular SNAP application online, by phone, or at an IDHS office. Tell the worker you need expedited service. An interview follows within one business day, with benefits issued within seven days if eligible.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP)

D-SNAP is activated after a federally declared disaster. It helps households buy food during recovery, including those who do not normally qualify for SNAP or current recipients who suffered disaster-related losses.

To be eligible, you must live or work in the designated disaster area. You must also pass a disaster-specific income test that accounts for expenses like home repairs or lost income, as detailed in the program overview.

When approved, IDHS announces a short application window. You can apply at designated sites or pre-register online. You will need to provide ID, proof of residence, and information about your disaster-related expenses. Benefits are issued within 72 hours.

Replacement SNAP Benefits For Food Destroyed In A Disaster

Current SNAP households can receive replacement benefits for food that was purchased with SNAP but lost in a disaster. This includes events like power outages, floods, or fires.

To qualify, you must already receive SNAP and live in an area covered by an official waiver. You must report the loss within the deadline specified in the state disaster waiver.

You must file Form IL444-1978 with your local IDHS office within 10 days of the food loss, unless a waiver provides an extension. IDHS will then issue replacement benefits for the value of the food lost.

How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois

Receiving SNAP benefits is the first step. Now, you need to know what you can buy and where to shop.

What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?

An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is how you receive and use your SNAP benefits. It is a plastic payment card that holds your food assistance funds electronically. The state government loads your benefits onto this card each month.

Using your EBT card is similar to using a debit card. You swipe it at the checkout counter of authorized stores and enter a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete the purchase. The amount is then deducted from your SNAP balance.

What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?

Your SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple food items for your household. These funds help you buy groceries to prepare and eat at home, covering most food groups. Eligible items include:

• Fruits and vegetables

• Meat, poultry, and fish

• Dairy products

• Breads and cereals

• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages

• Seeds and plants that produce food

It is important to know that some items cannot be purchased with your EBT card. These restrictions cover non-food goods, alcohol, tobacco, and foods that are sold hot at the point of sale. Ineligible items include:

• Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products

• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements

• Hot foods ready to eat

• Non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, or cosmetics

Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?

You can use your EBT card at most authorized retailers in Illinois. This includes major grocery chains, supermarkets, and many smaller corner stores. Look for the Quest or SNAP logo displayed at the store entrance or at the checkout to confirm they accept EBT payments.

Many farmers' markets also accept SNAP benefits, allowing you to purchase fresh, locally grown food. This is a great way to access healthy produce while supporting local farmers. Check with individual market vendors to see if they participate in the program.

Online grocery shopping is also an option. Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible food purchases. Your benefits can be used for groceries, but they will not cover delivery fees or other non-food charges associated with your order.

Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT

You can make your grocery money go further with the Benny app. It lets you earn cash back on purchases from popular stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree. Plus, you can get cash back from services you use regularly, including Uber and Lyft, adding to your savings.

Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.