How to Apply for Food Stamps in Illinois
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) of the state of Illinois (previously known as Food Stamps) serves to provide food and nutrition services to low-income individuals and families living in Illinois. The program is a part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Qualifying individuals and families are issued a Link Card to use for purchasing food. The Link Card is accepted at most grocery stores in Illinois.
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Things You'll Need
- SNAP Application
- Identification (driver's license or state-issued identification card)
- Proof of residency
- Paycheck stubs
- Utility bills
- Social security cards for individuals listed on the application
Instructions
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Step 1:
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Apply online at the Illinois Department of Human Services (see resource below), download the SNAP application (see resources), contact the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) at 1-800-843-6154 (Voice), 1-800-447-6404 (TTY) or visit the state's DHS search page (see resources) to locate the nearest Family Community Resource Center where you can apply in person.
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2
Complete the required information on the application and remember to sign and date it. If you are unable to answer all of the questions, be sure to include your name, address and signature and someone from DHS can assist you in completing the application.
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3
Mail, fax or hand-deliver the completed application to your local county Family Community Resource Center. Once your application has been received and processed, you will be asked to come in for an interview. If you are unable to participate in an interview in person, one may be arranged for you via telephone.
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Bring your identification, proof of residency, paycheck stubs, utility bills and social security cards with you to the interview. Your assigned caseworker will inform you of any additional items to bring with you to your appointment.
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Tips & Warnings
To find out in advance if you might be eligible for SNAP, use the Department of Human Services' Food Stamp Eligibility Calculator located on their Web site.
