EBT Guides
Apr 10, 2025
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families in Illinois, ensuring access to nutritious meals and alleviating food insecurity.
SNAP Income Limits and Benefit Amounts in Illinois
Income limits and benefit amounts for SNAP in Illinois are determined based on the household size and gross monthly income. These limits ensure that assistance is provided to those who need it most. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Household Size: 1
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,383
Maximum Benefit Amount: $250
Household Size: 2
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $1,868
Maximum Benefit Amount: $459
Household Size: 3
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,353
Maximum Benefit Amount: $658
Household Size: 4
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $2,839
Maximum Benefit Amount: $835
Household Size: 5
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,324
Maximum Benefit Amount: $992
Household Size: 6
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $3,809
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,190
Household Size: 7
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,295
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,316
Household Size: 8
Gross Monthly Income Limit: $4,780
Maximum Benefit Amount: $1,504
Household Size: Each additional person
Gross Monthly Income Limit: +$486
Maximum Benefit Amount: +$188
For the most current information, please visit the official Illinois SNAP website.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP in Illinois
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Illinois, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria:
Income Limits: Applicants must meet both gross and net income limits based on household size.
Residency Requirements: Applicants must reside in Illinois.
Citizenship Status: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can qualify.
Work Requirements: Certain work-related conditions must be met.
Special Conditions: Special considerations are given to seniors, disabled individuals, and students.
For detailed information, visit the Illinois SNAP website.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in Illinois
Applying for SNAP benefits in Illinois can be done online, in-person, or by mail, providing flexibility to applicants based on their preferences and accessibility needs.
Applying Online
To apply for SNAP benefits online as an Illinois resident, follow these steps:
Visit the official SNAP application website
Go to the ABE Illinois website to start your application.
Create an account or log in
Sign up for a new account or log in if you already have one.
Complete the application form
Fill out the online application form with your household and financial details.
Submit required documents electronically
Upload necessary documents such as proof of income and residency.
Review and submit your application
Double-check your information and submit the application for processing.
Applying In-Person
To apply for SNAP benefits in-person, follow these steps:
Locate your nearest SNAP office
Find the closest Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) office using the IDHS Office Locator.
Gather necessary documents
Collect essential documents such as identification, proof of income, and residency verification.
Visit the office during business hours
Go to the SNAP office during their operating hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Complete the application form
Fill out the application form provided at the office with your household and financial details.
Submit your application to a caseworker
Hand your completed application and documents to a caseworker for review and processing.
Applying by Mail
To apply for SNAP benefits in Illinois by mail, follow these steps:
Download and print the SNAP application form
Visit the Illinois DHS website to download and print the application form.
Fill out the form completely
Provide all required household and financial details on the application form.
Photocopy necessary documents
Make copies of essential documents like identification, proof of income, and residency verification.
Mail the application and documents
Send the completed application and photocopied documents to the address provided on the form.
Wait for confirmation or further instructions
After mailing, await confirmation or additional instructions from the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Special SNAP Services in Illinois
In Illinois, residents may receive special SNAP services such as expedited benefits for urgent needs, disaster assistance, and support for homeless individuals. Learn more at the Illinois DHS website.
Expedited SNAP Services in Illinois
Residents of Illinois can receive expedited SNAP benefits in emergency situations to address urgent food needs. To qualify for expedited services, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include having a gross monthly income of less than $150 and resources below $100, or being a destitute migrant or seasonal farm worker with resources under $100.
Additionally, households with combined monthly income and resources that are less than their monthly rent or mortgage, and utility expenses, may also qualify. The goal is to provide immediate assistance to those facing severe financial hardship, ensuring they have access to essential food supplies without delay.
Disaster Assistance for SNAP Beneficiaries
If you are affected by disasters such as fires or power outages in Illinois, you may qualify for replacement SNAP benefits. This assistance is available to current SNAP recipients who have lost food due to these emergencies.
To apply, you need to contact your local Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) office. Even if you are not currently receiving SNAP benefits, you can still apply for disaster assistance by completing the necessary forms and providing proof of the disaster's impact on your household.
Required documents may include identification, proof of residence, and a statement detailing the disaster's effect on your food supply. Ensure you submit these documents promptly to expedite the replacement process.
SNAP for Seniors and People with Disabilities
SNAP in Illinois provides tailored support for older adults (60+) and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the assistance they need. These groups often have simplified application options, making the process more accessible and less time-consuming.
Eligibility criteria for seniors and disabled individuals may differ slightly, often allowing for higher income limits and more lenient asset tests. This flexibility helps accommodate the unique financial situations of these populations.
Common deductions for these groups include out-of-pocket medical expenses, which can significantly reduce their countable income. This ensures that more of their limited resources are available for essential needs like food and healthcare.
How to Use Your SNAP Benefits in Illinois
Once approved for SNAP benefits, it's important to understand how to use them effectively, including what you can buy and where.
What is an EBT Card and How to Use it?
EBT cards, or Electronic Benefit Transfer cards, are used by SNAP recipients to access their benefits. Similar to a credit or debit card, an EBT card is swiped at the point of sale to purchase eligible food items. The card is linked to the recipient's SNAP account, automatically deducting the purchase amount from their available balance. This system ensures a convenient and discreet way for individuals to use their SNAP benefits.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
Recipients in Illinois can use their EBT card to purchase a variety of eligible food items, ensuring they have access to nutritious options. These items include:
Fruits
Vegetables
Dairy products
Bread and cereals
Meat, poultry, and fish
Non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased with an EBT card. Ineligible items include:
Alcoholic beverages
Hot foods prepared for immediate consumption
Vitamins and supplements
Non-food products such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and pet food
Download Benny for Free and Earn Cash Back on EBT
With Benny, you can earn cash back on groceries from stores like Target, Walmart, and Dollar Tree, as well as services such as Uber and Lyft. Download Benny for free. Connect your EBT card and earn cashback as you shop.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
In Illinois, EBT cards can be used at a variety of locations to purchase eligible food items. Recipients can shop at grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers' markets, ensuring access to fresh and nutritious options. Additionally, some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible purchases, providing further convenience.
When using the EBT card, simply swipe it at the point of sale and enter your PIN to complete the transaction. This system ensures a seamless and discreet shopping experience for SNAP beneficiaries.
How to Manage Your SNAP Benefits
Managing your SNAP benefits effectively ensures you maximize your resources, avoid running out of funds, and maintain access to essential food supplies. Here's how to stay on top of your benefits:
EBT Deposit Schedule in Illinois
In Illinois, SNAP benefits are typically deposited onto EBT cards based on the case number. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Case Number Ending in 1: Benefits deposited on the 1st of the month
Case Number Ending in 2: Benefits deposited on the 2nd of the month
Case Number Ending in 3: Benefits deposited on the 3rd of the month
Case Number Ending in 4: Benefits deposited on the 4th of the month
Case Number Ending in 5: Benefits deposited on the 5th of the month
Case Number Ending in 6: Benefits deposited on the 6th of the month
Case Number Ending in 7: Benefits deposited on the 7th of the month
Case Number Ending in 8: Benefits deposited on the 8th of the month
Case Number Ending in 9: Benefits deposited on the 9th of the month
Case Number Ending in 0: Benefits deposited on the 10th of the month
Understanding the deposit schedule is crucial for managing your SNAP benefits effectively, ensuring you plan your grocery shopping and budget accordingly.
For more details, check out our guide on EBT deposit schedule in Illinois to learn about common reasons for delays and other helpful information.
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
There are several methods available for checking your EBT balance in Illinois:
Online Portal
Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in with your credentials to view your balance.
Benny App
Benny is a mobile app that allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real time by linking your EBT card to the app. Download Benny for free.
Phone Number
Call the number on the back of your EBT card and follow the automated instructions to check your balance.
ATM Receipt
Insert your EBT card into an ATM, enter your PIN, and select "Balance Inquiry" to print your balance.
For additional information, check our guide on EBT Balance Check in Illinois. This resource provides helpful details on each method for checking your EBT balance.
How to Renew Your SNAP Benefits
In Illinois, SNAP recipients must renew or recertify their benefits every 6 to 12 months, depending on their specific case. Required documents include proof of income, residency, and any changes in household size or expenses.
To complete the recertification, recipients can submit their documents online via the ABE Illinois website, by mail, or in-person at a local IDHS office. Timely recertification is important to ensure continuous access to benefits without interruptions.
EBT Customer Support in Illinois
For SNAP and EBT customer support in Illinois, recipients can access various resources to resolve issues, check balances, and get assistance with their benefits.
For contact details, support options, and solutions to common issues, check out our guide on EBT customer service in Illinois.
How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Illinois
EBT Customer Service Phone Number: Call 1-800-678-5465 for assistance.
Hours of Operation: Customer service is available 24/7, ensuring you can get help at any time.
Services Offered:
Reporting lost or stolen EBT cards
Resetting your EBT card PIN
Checking your EBT card balance
Addressing issues with transactions or card usage
Providing general information about your SNAP benefits
Local SNAP Office Locations and Contact Info
Finding your nearest SNAP or DHS office in Illinois is straightforward with several available resources. You can use online locator tools, phone lines, or book appointments to ensure you get the assistance you need.
Here are the steps to find your nearest office:
Online Locator Tool: Visit the IDHS Office Locator and enter your zip code or city to find the closest office.
Phone Line: Call the Illinois Department of Human Services at 1-800-843-6154 for assistance in locating your nearest office.
Appointment Booking: Some offices offer appointment booking online or by phone to reduce wait times and ensure you receive timely assistance.
Multi-Langual Support
In Illinois, SNAP application materials and assistance are available in multiple languages to support non-English speakers. This ensures that all residents can access the benefits they need. The most common languages in which assistance is available include:
Spanish
Polish
Chinese
Arabic
Manage your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits in Illinois is easier with Benny. This app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you stay on top of your benefits. Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
With Benny, you can maximize your SNAP benefits and make your shopping more rewarding. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions about SNAP in Illinois
Who qualifies for SNAP benefits in Illinois?
To qualify for SNAP benefits in Illinois, you must meet income limits based on household size, reside in Illinois, and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Additionally, you must comply with work requirements and special conditions for seniors, disabled individuals, and students. For more details, visit the Illinois SNAP website.
Can college students apply for SNAP?
Yes, college students can apply for SNAP in Illinois if they meet certain conditions. These include working at least 20 hours per week, participating in a state or federally funded work-study program, caring for a dependent under 6, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). For more details, visit the Illinois SNAP website.
Can I get SNAP benefits if I’m an immigrant?
Some immigrants may qualify for SNAP benefits depending on their immigration status. Eligible non-citizens include those with legal permanent residency, refugees, and asylees. Specific criteria must be met to receive benefits. Check the Illinois SNAP website for detailed eligibility information.
How often do I need to renew my SNAP benefits?
SNAP recipients in Illinois typically need to renew their benefits every 6 to 12 months. The exact renewal period depends on individual circumstances and state rules. During the renewal process, recipients must provide updated information about their income, household size, and expenses to continue receiving benefits without interruption.
