Proof of identity
One government-issued ID for the primary applicant.
- ▪Illinois driver's license or state ID
- ▪U.S. passport or passport card
- ▪Birth certificate
- ▪Permanent resident card or work authorization (if not a U.S. citizen)
Reference
Document checklist
Use this as a guide to gather what you'll need before applying for IDHS benefits. Bring originals or clear copies — you don't need every item, just what applies to your household.
Proof of Illinois residency
- ▪Current lease or mortgage statement
- ▪Utility bill dated within the last 30 days (gas, electric, water)
- ▪Recent mail from a government agency or school
Proof of income — for every adult in the household
- ▪Pay stubs from the last 30 days, or a signed employer statement
- ▪Most recent federal tax return (Form 1040) if self-employed
- ▪Unemployment (IDES) award or denial letter
- ▪Social Security, SSI, or SSDI award letter
- ▪Child support, pension, or any other regular income
Household members
A Social Security number helps but isn't required — you can still apply without one.
- ▪Social Security number for each person applying (optional — you can still apply without one)
- ▪Date of birth for each household member
- ▪Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
- ▪Proof of school enrollment for children age 16 and older
Monthly expenses (SNAP and TANF only)
These may increase the benefit you qualify for, but aren't required.
- ▪Rent receipt or current mortgage statement
- ▪Heating, electric, water, or phone bill
- ▪Child care or dependent care receipts
- ▪Out-of-pocket medical expenses (for members age 60+ or disabled)
Assets and resources (Medicaid only)
- ▪Most recent bank statements (checking and savings)
- ▪Vehicle registration(s)
- ▪Life insurance policies or retirement account statements
Don't want to file it yourself? For a one-time $100 fee, we complete and submit your IDHS application on your behalf through ABE.Illinois.gov — you just send us the documents above. Call 1-800-849-0435 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm CT) with any questions. Filing directly with the State of Illinois at ABE.Illinois.gov is always free.