Food Stamps/SNAP | ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES (IDHS) - Food Stamps/SNAP

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Important Notice: The federal government shutdown is over and services are returning. There may be some delays in benefits being issued. - Clients do not need to reapply or take any action; benefits will automatically be issued as federal funding becomes available. - Continue to submit all required forms and recertifications as usual. SNAP applications, Semi Annual Reports (SAR 7s), and recertifications will continue to be processed as usual. All recipients are encouraged to keep their eligibility up to date. - You can apply for SNAP benefits online, by phone, or in person. For more information and updates, visit the SNAP Federal Impact Center online: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/?item=174038 Last updated: 11/14/2025 Provides residents with an Illinois Link card to purchase groceries in participating stores. Households can buy a designated amount of food based on income and household size. SNAP benefits can be used to buy: - Any food or food product for human consumption - Seeds and plants for use in home gardens to produce food Benefits cannot be used to buy: - Hot foods ready to eat - Food intended to be heated in the store - Lunch counter items or foods to be eaten in the store - Vitamins or medicine - Pet foods - Any nonfood items (except seeds and plants) - Alcoholic beverages - Tobacco *Note: Emergency SNAP Benefits are ready in 5 days or less from the application date

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