IDHS administers dozens of programs. Here are the ones most Illinois families apply for. Not sure where to start? Take the 5-minute eligibility screener.
Up to $1,756/mo for a family of 4
Monthly food benefits loaded onto a LINK card to buy groceries at most stores and farmers markets.
Households with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Free or very low-cost care
Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health, dental and vision for eligible Illinois residents.
Adults, children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities meeting income limits.
Up to $623/mo for a family of 3
Monthly cash payments and job training for low-income families with children under 19.
Families with dependent children meeting income and resource limits.
Pays most of your child care cost
Help paying for licensed child care while you work, look for work, or attend school.
Working families with children under 13 (or under 19 with special needs).
One-time payment to utilities
Help paying winter heating and summer cooling bills, plus emergency reconnection assistance.
Households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Free healthy food + nutrition counseling
Nutritious food, breastfeeding support, and health referrals for pregnant people and young children.
Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding people and children under 5.