How to Get the Most Out of SNAP in Illinois: Apply, Expedite, and Use Your Link Card Wisely
Step 1: How to Apply for SNAP in Illinois
You can apply online at abe.illinois.gov. This is the quickest and easiest way to start. You can also apply:
By phone at 1-800-843-6154 (IDHS Helpline)
At your local Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) office
What you’ll need:
ID (driver's license, state ID)
Proof of income (paystubs, unemployment, etc.)
Proof of residency (utility bill, lease)
Social Security numbers for all household members
It usually takes about 30 days to get approved, but...
Step 2: How to Expedite Your Benefits (Get SNAP Faster)
You might qualify for expedited SNAP, which means you can get benefits within 5 days if:
Your monthly income is less than $150 and you have less than $100 in the bank
Your rent/mortgage and utilities are more than your monthly income
You're a migrant or seasonal farmworker with very little income
Tip: When you apply, tell the caseworker if you think you qualify for expedited SNAP. Don't assume they’ll catch it on their own.
Step 3: Using Your Illinois Link Card
Once approved, you’ll receive an Illinois Link Card in the mail. It works like a debit card and is accepted at grocery stores, big-box retailers (like Walmart), some farmers markets, and even online with select stores like Amazon and Aldi (via Instacart).
What you can buy with SNAP:
Fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, fish
Dairy products
Bread and cereal
Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Seeds and plants to grow food at home
What you can’t buy:
Hot/prepared foods (like rotisserie chicken or deli meals)
Vitamins or supplements
Alcohol or tobacco
Cleaning supplies, paper products, or pet food
Step 4: How to Check Your SNAP Balance
You have several easy options:
Call 1-800-678-LINK (1-800-678-5465)
Check online at ebtEDGE.com
Use the Link Card app (available on iOS and Android)
Look at your receipt — your balance shows after every purchase
Pro tip: Download the Link Card app. It’s the fastest way to track spending and check your balance on the go.
Common SNAP Issues (and How to Handle Them)
Problem: My application is taking too long.
Fix: Call the IDHS helpline and ask for a status update. If you qualify for expedited SNAP, remind them.
Problem: My Link card was lost or stolen.
Fix: Call 1-800-678-LINK immediately. They’ll freeze your card and send a new one.
Problem: My benefits were denied or cut off.
Fix: You have a right to appeal. Follow the instructions on your denial letter or call IDHS to request a hearing.
Need More Help?
If you're stuck or have more questions, contact:
IDHS Help Line at 1-800-843-6154
Local food banks – they can help you apply or find food while you wait
Visit blank-insurance.com for helpful guides and support tools on SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits
