Benefits Eligibility Guide
Illinois Government Benefits
Find out which federal and state benefits you qualify for in Illinois. Free, anonymous, and takes about 3 minutes.
Check My Eligibility βIllinois Benefits Programs
Here are the major programs available to Illinois residents.
Medicaid (Medicaid)
Medicaid expansion state
Adults: up to 138% FPL
Children: up to 318% FPL
Pregnant: up to 213% FPL
SNAP (Food Assistance)
Gross income limit: 165% FPL
Net income limit: 100% FPL
Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE)
LIHEAP (Energy Assistance)
Income limit: 60% SMI
Helps with heating and cooling costs
TANF (Cash Assistance)
Lifetime limit: 60 months
Cash assistance for families with children
WIC (Nutrition)
Income limit: 185% FPL
For pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum individuals and children under 5
Get Covered Illinois (ACA)
Marketplace Type: State-Based Exchange
Phone: 1-800-318-2596
Plus: ACA Health Insurance Subsidies, EITC, Child Tax Credit, SSI, SSDI, Pell Grants, VA Benefits, School Meals, Head Start, and more.
Our screener checks 20+ programs at once.
Check Your Eligibility in Illinois
Answer a few questions and see which programs you may qualify for. No account needed.
Start Free Screening βIllinois Benefits Guides
In-depth articles about specific programs in Illinois.
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How to Apply for Section 8 in Illinois: Complete Guide for 2026
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Illinois ACA Benefits and Coverage Guide 2026
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Illinois Medicaid Eligibility 2026: Income Limits Guide
Check if you qualify for Illinois Medicaid in 2026. Income limits by household size, who qualifies, how to apply through ABE, and what coverage includes.
February 5, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What government benefits am I eligible for in Illinois?
Illinois residents may qualify for programs including Medicaid (Medicaid), SNAP (food assistance), LIHEAP energy assistance, childcare subsidies, tax credits like EITC and CTC, and more. Eligibility depends on your household size, income, and other factors. Use our free screener to check all programs at once.
How do I apply for Medicaid in Illinois?
You can apply for Medicaid online at https://abe.illinois.gov or by calling 1-800-843-6154. Illinois has expanded Medicaid, so adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level may qualify.
How do I apply for SNAP (food stamps) in Illinois?
Apply for SNAP online at https://abe.illinois.gov or call 1-800-843-6154. Illinois uses Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility, so the gross income limit is 165% of the federal poverty level. Net income must be at or below 100% FPL.
