SNAP RULES HAVE CHANGED
The federal government passed a new law that makes significant changes to SNAP, also known as Link/EBT in Illinois. The changes could affect your eligibility or require you to take extra steps to receive SNAP benefits.
If you lost SNAP, take action today to recover your benefits.
WORK REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Effective February 1, 2026
Many people between the ages of 18 and 64 who do not have dependents under the age of 14 will be required to work or volunteer a minimum of 80 hours per month to keep SNAP benefits.
To meet this requirement, a person must work (paid or unpaid), participate in SNAP Employment & Training Programs, volunteer or do community service, or any combination of the above. Click here to learn about resources for fulfilling work requirements.
Fulfill online job training hours by visiting JobReadyIL.com.
REPORT YOUR EXEMPTION
Exemptions are available and can be applied for even after experiencing a loss or reduction in benefits. Exemptions to new work requirements apply for those who are pregnant, have a physical or mental condition that limits your ability to work, if you are a student— many other exemptions apply. Use this screener to see if you qualify for an exemption. If you are eligible for an exemption, complete this form and submit it to IDHS. Learn more about exemptions by calling our Benefits Specialists at 773-247-3663 (FOOD) or visit the IDHS website for more information.
REAPPLY FOR BENEFITS AND APPEAL
If you lost SNAP benefits and qualify for an exemption, file a new application to get back on SNAP. For help reapplying for SNAP, contact a Benefits Specialist at the Food Depository at (773) 247 - 3663 (FOOD).
You also have the right to appeal the decision to stop or reduce your SNAP benefits. Appeals can help you recover any benefits you missed. You must file an appeal with the Illinois Department of Human Services within 90 days of the notice to stop or reduce your benefits.
For help filing an appeal in Cook County contact Legal Aid Chicago at (312) 341-1070.
For help filing an appeal outside of Cook County and in area codes (309), (815), (847) contact Prairie State Legal Services at (800) 531-7057.
For help filing an appeal outside of Cook County and in area codes (217) or (618) contact Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation at (877) 342-7891.
For more information on reapplying and appealing click here.
UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION
Didn’t find an exemption? Continue to review your exemption eligibility! If your situation changes such that you may now qualify for an exemption (you become pregnant, experience homelessness, become a caretaker etc.), tell IDHS immediately!
Review your profile for any inaccuracies with the support of a benefits specialist. Report any changes in your income or changes to your household to the Illinois Department of Human Services. You can do this online, by calling the IDHS Line at 1-800-843-6154, or by visiting your local IDHS office.
IMMIGRANT ELIGIBILITY
Effective April 1, 2026
Immigrants granted official humanitarian protections will no longer be eligible for SNAP, including refugees, asylees, victims of human trafficking, certain victims of violence and torture, and other historically qualified statuses.
The only immigrants who will remain eligible for SNAP are:
Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) who have been in the US for at least 5 years (or are exempt from the 5-year wait period)
Cuban and Haitian entrants
Individuals lawfully residing in the US in accordance with a Compact of Free Association (COFA).
Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services or one of our benefits specialists to discuss your case and to get help with a plan for alternative support.
GET HELP MANAGING YOUR CASE
We’re here to help! Our team will answer your questions and walk you through the process for receiving and maintaining SNAP food benefits. That includes determining your eligibility, applying for benefits, recertifying your eligibility or managing your case
Contact us to get started and receive benefits that can alleviate financial hardships.