Assistance programs in Illinois
Explore public benefits and assistance resources by the kind of help you need. Agencies decide eligibility and availability.
Find programs for your situationFood assistance
Illinois WIC
Illinois WIC provides selected food benefits, nutrition support and breastfeeding help. Start by arranging an appointment with a local WIC office.
SNAP Food Stamps (Illinois)
Illinois SNAP helps eligible households buy groceries through the Illinois Link card. IDHS reviews applications through Family Community Resource Centers.
Housing assistance
Illinois Legal Aid Online (Eviction & Legal Help)
Illinois Legal Aid Online offers legal information, forms and a tool to find legal help. Use the issue and ZIP-code search to locate relevant resources.
Utility assistance
Home Weatherization Assistance Program (Illinois DCEO)
Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program helps qualifying households improve energy efficiency. Apply through the community action agency serving your area.
LIHEAP Energy Assistance (Illinois)
Illinois LIHEAP helps eligible households with home energy costs. County agencies review requests and determine the assistance available.
Health coverage
All Kids (Illinois Children's Health Coverage)
All Kids provides health coverage for eligible children living in Illinois. Apply through ABE and use the All Kids hotline for program questions.
Medicaid (Illinois HFS)
Illinois Medicaid offers health coverage through several eligibility pathways. Apply through ABE or a local Family Community Resource Center.
Cash and income support
Illinois Earned Income Credit
Illinois EITC is a state tax credit for qualifying workers. Its expanded rules can include some taxpayers who cannot claim the federal EITC.
TANF Cash Assistance (Illinois)
Illinois TANF provides temporary cash and supportive services for eligible pregnant women and families with dependent children. Apply through IDHS.
Unemployment Insurance (Illinois IDES)
Illinois IDES handles unemployment claims through its online system. An initial claim and later benefit certifications are separate steps.
Additional support
211 Illinois
211 Illinois offers free, confidential referrals to local assistance providers. Call 211, text your ZIP code to 898211 or search the statewide directory.
Program names come from our existing directory. Funding and rules can change; confirm details with the administering agency before applying.