$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Illinois Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Illinois
SSDI in Illinois - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Illinois - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Illinois as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA, 2026
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Illinois?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. In Illinois you may also qualify for Medicaid, since the state expanded coverage for adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level.
How long does SSDI take in Illinois?
Illinois processes initial medical decisions through its Bureau of Disability Determination Services. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity, which is $1,690 in 2026. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Illinois - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Illinois - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Illinois, the state also runs a companion cash program called AABD for aged, blind, and disabled residents.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
ILLINOIS ADDS CASH
AABD program
Illinois runs Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled, a state cash program that can supplement very low incomes
Illinois DHS
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does Illinois add to my SSI payment?
Illinois runs a separate state cash program called AABD (Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) rather than a general add-on to your SSI check. It pays the gap between your income and the state standard, and for people already on SSI the extra amount is usually small.
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Illinois?
Usually, but it is not always automatic in Illinois the way it is in some states. Many SSI recipients qualify for Medicaid through AABD, and applying for AABD also opens the door to Medicaid coverage.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Illinois
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Illinois
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
ILLINOIS PROPERTY TAX
70%+ pays $0
Veterans rated 70% or higher owe no property tax on the first $250,000 of their home's equalized assessed value in Illinois
Illinois DOR, 2026
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Illinois offer extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Through the Disabled Veterans Standard Homestead Exemption, a rating of 30 to 49 percent cuts $2,500 off your home's equalized assessed value (EAV), 50 to 69 percent cuts $5,000, and 70 percent or higher exempts the first $250,000 of EAV entirely. Because EAV is roughly a third of market value, that top tier covers most homes fully. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs can help you file with your county.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Illinois
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Illinois
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Illinois?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Is there free Medicare counseling in Illinois?
Yes. The Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP), run by the Illinois Department on Aging, offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling. You can reach it toll-free at 1-800-252-8966.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Illinois
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Illinois
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
ILLINOIS EVAL DEADLINE
60 school days
Illinois must finish testing and hold the eligibility meeting within 60 school days of your written consent
ISBE / 23 Ill. Admin. Code 226
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Illinois public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Illinois?
Illinois uses school days, not calendar days. After you sign written consent, the district has 60 school days to complete the evaluation and hold the meeting that decides eligibility and, if your child qualifies, develops the IEP.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Illinois
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Illinois residents.
Medicaid in Illinois
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Illinois residents.
Illinois Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Illinois expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 can qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, even without children. The program is run by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS), and most members get care through HealthChoice Illinois managed care plans.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
3M+
Illinoisans enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP as of late 2025 (approximate)
KFF/CMS, 2025 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
Illinois HFS, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Because Illinois expanded Medicaid, adults 19 to 64 can qualify up to 138% of the poverty level
Illinois HFS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, with or without children
- Pregnant people up to 213% FPL through Moms and Babies, with 12 months of postpartum coverage
- Children through All Kids with household income up to 318% FPL
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability through AABD
How to apply
Apply online through ABE, the Application for Benefits Eligibility, at abe.illinois.gov, or in person at your local Family Community Resource Center. Have proof of income, identity, and Illinois residency ready. Most decisions arrive within 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed. The same ABE portal also screens you for SNAP and cash assistance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Illinois?
The program keeps the name Medicaid, run by HFS. Most members receive care through a HealthChoice Illinois managed care plan, and children may be covered under All Kids.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Can immigrants get health coverage in Illinois?
It depends. The Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program closed to coverage on July 1, 2025, and the seniors program has been paused to new enrollment since November 2023. Children and pregnant people may still qualify for coverage regardless of immigration status.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Illinois
Monthly grocery benefits on the Illinois Link Card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Illinois
Monthly grocery benefits on the Illinois Link Card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP helps qualifying Illinois households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto the Illinois Link Card and can be used at most grocery stores, Walmart, and many farmers markets. The program is run by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Illinois uses broad-based categorical eligibility, which raises the income cutoff and drops the asset test for most households.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~1.9 million
Illinoisans received SNAP benefits in FY2025, about 15% of the state
USAFacts / USDA, FY2025
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
INCOME LIMIT
165% FPL
Illinois raises the gross income limit to 165% of the poverty level for most households, and 200% for those with a member 60 or older or with a disability
Illinois IDHS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 165% of the federal poverty level for most families
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability, who use a higher 200% limit
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Illinois
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
How to apply
Apply online through ABE at abe.illinois.gov, or in person at your local Family Community Resource Center. An interview is required, but it can be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need. The same application also screens you for cash assistance and medical benefits.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Illinois?
Yes. Many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, childcare, and earned income are applied, and Illinois uses a higher 165% income limit than the federal default. Income alone does not tell the full story.
How long does SNAP approval take in Illinois?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and limited resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can be done by phone.
What is the Illinois Link Card?
The Illinois Link Card is the state EBT card that holds your SNAP benefits. It is accepted at most grocery stores, at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, and at many farmers markets across the state.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Illinois
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Illinois
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF usually qualifies you automatically. Illinois WIC is run by the Department of Human Services.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Illinois families at or below 185% of the poverty level can qualify, and enrollment in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF meets the income test automatically
Illinois DHS, 2026
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF are automatically income-eligible
- Illinois residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Call the Illinois WIC office or your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. For help finding a clinic or with your eWIC card, call 1-833-916-1509. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Illinois residency, and proof of household income or proof of Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF enrollment. If approved, you receive your Illinois eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Illinois's WIC food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit of 185% of the poverty level is higher than people expect, and being on Medicaid or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically.
What is the Illinois eWIC card?
It is the card that holds your WIC food benefits, which you use at approved stores. You can check your balance through the Bnft app or at mybnft.com, or by calling 1-833-916-1509.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Illinois
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Illinois
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
Illinois's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households pay their heating and cooling bills. The program is federally funded and administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) through local community action agencies. Illinois also runs companion programs, including the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) and reconnection help for households facing shutoff.
INCOME LIMIT
60% of state median
Households at or below 60% of the state median income can qualify for heating, cooling, and crisis help
Illinois DCEO, FY2026
CRISIS HELP
Up to $1,500
Maximum winter crisis benefit for households facing an emergency or shutoff
LIHEAP Clearinghouse, FY2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account, not paid to you as cash
Illinois DCEO
Who qualifies
- Illinois households with income at or below 60% of the state median income
- Renters and homeowners paying energy bills, or paying energy costs included in rent
- Priority given to households with older adults, young children, people with disabilities, or high energy burden
- Households facing disconnection may qualify for faster crisis assistance
How to apply
Apply through your local community action agency, not DCEO directly. Find your agency and check eligibility at helpillinoisfamilies.com, or call 1-833-711-0374. Bring a current utility bill, photo ID for household members, proof of income, and any disconnection notice. Funds are limited each year, so apply early. If approved, the benefit is credited to your utility account.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for LIHEAP?
Illinois uses a 60% state median income limit, which is higher than a flat poverty-level cutoff. If you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI, you generally meet the income test.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. LIHEAP payments go directly to your utility company. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or preventing a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
What's the difference between LIHEAP and PIPP in Illinois?
LIHEAP is a one-time benefit toward your energy bills. PIPP, the Percentage of Income Payment Plan, instead sets your monthly payment as a share of your income and credits part of your past-due balance each time you pay on time. Note that PIPP is not taking new applications for the 2025 to 2026 program year, though current members can recertify, so ask your local agency what is open.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Illinois
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance through Get Covered Illinois.
ACA Subsidies in Illinois
Subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance through Get Covered Illinois.
ACA subsidies are tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan. Starting with 2026 coverage, Illinois runs its own state marketplace, Get Covered Illinois, on its own platform rather than through HealthCare.gov. You apply and enroll at getcovered.illinois.gov. Most enrollees qualify for subsidies that lower their premiums.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~466,000
Illinoisans who bought marketplace coverage during the last open enrollment (2025 plan year); approximate
Get Covered Illinois, 2025 (approx.)
WHO QUALIFIES FOR SUBSIDIES
~9 in 10
Most Illinois marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
Illinois DOI, 2025
WHERE TO ENROLL
Get Covered Illinois
For 2026 coverage, Illinois runs its own marketplace at getcovered.illinois.gov instead of HealthCare.gov
Get Covered Illinois, 2026
Who qualifies
- Illinoisans without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning at or above 138% of the federal poverty level, above the Medicaid limit
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Illinois
How to apply
Apply online at getcovered.illinois.gov, the state marketplace for 2026 coverage. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local help is available, and you can call 1-866-311-1119.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still use HealthCare.gov in Illinois?
No. Starting with 2026 coverage, Illinois runs its own marketplace, Get Covered Illinois, on its own platform. You apply and enroll at getcovered.illinois.gov instead of HealthCare.gov.
What if I missed open enrollment?
You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you lost coverage, got married, had a baby, or had another qualifying life event. You generally have 60 days from the event.
What if my income is too low for subsidies?
Get Covered Illinois screens for Medicaid at the same time. Because Illinois expanded Medicaid, adults up to 138% of the poverty level are usually directed to Medicaid rather than a subsidized marketplace plan.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Illinois
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Illinois
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, provides monthly cash to Illinois families with children who have very limited income. The cash is loaded onto the Illinois Link Card and can be used for basic needs like rent, utilities, and transportation. The program is run by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and comes with a federal 60-month lifetime limit and work requirements.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$777/mo
The maximum cash grant for a family of three with no income, effective October 2025
Illinois DHS, 2025
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The federal lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults, counting months received in any state
Illinois DHS, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
$777/mo
To qualify, a family of three must have countable income below the payment standard, which is the same $777 figure that sets the maximum grant
Illinois DHS, 2025
Who qualifies
- Illinois residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in secondary school)
- Households with countable income below the payment standard for their family size
- Adults must take part in work and training activities unless exempt
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through ABE at abe.illinois.gov, or in person at your local Family Community Resource Center. Complete an interview to determine eligibility. Applying through ABE also screens you for SNAP and medical benefits. If approved, cash benefits are loaded onto the Illinois Link Card.
Frequently asked questions
How much cash does TANF pay a family in Illinois?
A family of three with no other income can receive up to $777 a month as of October 2025. The exact amount depends on your family size and any income you already have.
How long can I receive TANF in Illinois?
A federal 60-month lifetime cap applies to adults, counting months received in any state. After the adult reaches that limit, a case may continue as child-only, covering just the children.
Can I receive TANF and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. TANF recipients are generally categorically eligible for SNAP and Medicaid. Applying at ABE screens you for all three at once.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Illinois (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Illinois (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. Illinois goes further than most states: it adds a state Earned Income Credit worth 20% of your federal amount, and it is also refundable.
FEDERAL WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 federal maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
ILLINOIS ADDS
20% more
Illinois pays a state Earned Income Credit worth 20% of your federal EITC, and it is refundable
Illinois Dept. of Revenue, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
Both the federal and Illinois credits are refundable, so you receive the full amount even if you owe nothing
IRS / Illinois DOR, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers, or in Illinois an ITIN can qualify you for the state credit
- And more, including limits on investment income
How to apply
You claim the federal EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file, and you claim the Illinois credit on your state return. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers. Because Illinois automatically figures the 20% state credit from your federal EITC, filing both returns is all it takes.
Frequently asked questions
Does Illinois have its own state EITC?
Yes. Illinois pays a state Earned Income Credit worth 20% of your federal EITC. It is refundable, so it can increase your refund even if you owe no state tax.
Can I get the Illinois credit without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can qualify for a smaller federal EITC, and Illinois adds 20% on top of whatever federal amount you receive.
Can I get the Illinois credit if I file with an ITIN?
Yes. Illinois expanded its Earned Income Credit to workers who file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, even though the federal EITC generally requires a Social Security number.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Illinois
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Illinois
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The federal Child Tax Credit is worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, claimed when you file your federal tax return, with up to $1,700 per child refundable. Illinois now adds its own state Child Tax Credit on top, worth 40% of your Illinois Earned Income Credit, for families with a young child.
FEDERAL, PER CHILD
$2,200
The federal credit for each qualifying child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable
IRS, 2026
ILLINOIS ADDS
40% of state EIC
Illinois pays a state Child Tax Credit worth 40% of your Illinois Earned Income Credit for a dependent child under 12
Illinois Dept. of Revenue, 2026
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
The refundable portions mean lower-income families can get money back even when they owe no income tax
IRS / Illinois DOR, 2026
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 for the federal credit
- Illinois families who qualify for the state Earned Income Credit with a dependent child under 12
- Part of the federal credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full federal credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the federal Child Tax Credit when you file a federal return, using Schedule 8812. You claim the Illinois Child Tax Credit on your state return, where it is figured from your Illinois Earned Income Credit. Free filing help through VITA can walk you through both.
Frequently asked questions
Does Illinois have a state Child Tax Credit?
Yes. Illinois created a state Child Tax Credit worth 40% of your Illinois Earned Income Credit, for families who qualify for the state EIC and have a dependent child under 12. It is separate from and on top of the federal credit.
Does my child need a Social Security number?
For the federal credit, yes, each qualifying child needs a valid Social Security number. The Illinois credits are tied to the state Earned Income Credit, which can be claimed with an ITIN.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
It is the refundable portion of the federal Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable, and you need at least $2,500 in earned income to claim it on Schedule 8812.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Illinois
Subsidized child care for working Illinois families.
Child Care Assistance in Illinois
Subsidized child care for working Illinois families.
Illinois's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps working families pay for child care while parents work, go to school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and run by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) through local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies. The program pays providers directly, with families paying a sliding-scale share based on income.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size, and the lowest-income families pay nothing
Illinois DHS, 2026
INCOME LIMIT
225% FPL to enter
Families can enter the program with income at or below 225% of the federal poverty level, well above the amount many expect
Illinois DHS, 2026
WAITLIST STATUS
No statewide waitlist
Illinois aims to serve all eligible families without a waiting list, so long as funding allows
Illinois DHS / U of I CCR&R, 2026
Who qualifies
- Illinois residents with a child under 13, or under 19 with a disability or special need
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households entering at or below 225% of the federal poverty level, staying qualified up to 275%
- Child is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigration status
How to apply
Apply through your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency, listed on the IDHS site. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. CCR&R staff help you complete the application and choose a provider. If approved, the state pays your provider directly and you pay a sliding-scale co-pay.
Frequently asked questions
What income can I have and still qualify for CCAP in Illinois?
A family can enter the program with income up to 225% of the federal poverty level, and once enrolled can keep help at redetermination up to 275% before a graduated phase-out. These are the income limits, not the amount the program pays.
Is there a waiting list for child care assistance in Illinois?
No. Illinois does not run a statewide waiting list and aims to serve every eligible family, as long as funding allows. If resources ever run short, the state can limit new intake to priority groups such as families getting TANF, teen parents, and families experiencing homelessness.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale co-pay applies based on your income and family size, and the lowest-income families pay nothing. Your CCR&R agency can tell you your exact co-pay before you enroll.
Government resources
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