Assistance for Rural Single Mothers in Illinois

Assistance Programs for Rural Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box — fast actions you can take today

Food tonight: Call your local food bank via 2‑1‑1 or check “Find Food” on your county’s Community Action Agency page. If you already have SNAP, ask markets about “Link Match” to stretch benefits. See Link Match below. (211illinois.org, experimentalstation.org)
Heat or power shutoff notice: Call the Help Illinois Families LIHEAP line at 1‑833‑711‑0374 and submit the “Request for Services” form. Priority groups include households with kids under 6 and those with disconnect notices. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Medical coverage for you or your kids: Apply at ABE or call the All Kids/FamilyCare hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437. Pregnant moms can get immediate temporary coverage (MPE) through a participating clinic. (hfs.illinois.gov)
SNAP expedited in 7 days: Apply at ABE and answer your interview call; expedited rules may apply if rent and utilities are higher than income. Call IDHS Helpline 1‑800‑843‑6154 for status. (dhs.state.il.us, illinoislegalaid.org)
Domestic violence safety: Call the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑877‑863‑6338 (TTY 1‑877‑863‑6339) any time. In danger now, call 911. (ilcadv.org)
Talk to someone now: Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7). For local help finding any service, dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP to 898211. (211illinois.org)

What this guide does differently

Verified 2025 dollar amounts and income limits: We cite official sources (IDHS, HFS, USDA/FNS, DCEO, ISAC, IDES, FCC, HHS ASPE) and link directly. No guesses, no fluff.
Rural first: We highlight timelines, limited office hours, transportation work‑arounds, and alternative options if a county office is backlogged.
Plan B at the end of every section: If one door shuts, here’s the next one to try.

This guide follows our Editorial Standards on source verification, inclusivity, and quick error corrections.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Program	Who it helps	Key benefit	Apply/Contact
SNAP (Link card)	Low‑income families buying food	Max for 4 is $975/mo (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)	Apply at ABE • IDHS Helpline 1‑800‑843‑6154 • Link hotline 1‑800‑678‑5465. (fns.usda.gov, dhs.state.il.us, hfs.illinois.gov)
WIC	Pregnant/postpartum, infants, kids <5	Monthly fruit/veg: kids *$26 , p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m $ 47, breastfeeding $52* (FY 2025)	WIC Help 1‑800‑323‑4769 • Ask your clinic for an appointment. (fns.usda.gov, hfs.illinois.gov)
TANF cash	Very low income families with kids	Payment example (adult+child): 2‑person $596/mo (as of Mar 2025)	Apply at ABE • IDHS 1‑800‑843‑6154. (dhs.state.il.us)
CCAP child care	Working/in‑school parents	Income at entry ≤ 225% FPL (e.g., 3‑person ≤ $4,841/mo) • Co‑pay capped ≤ 7% of income	Find your CCR&R or apply • Questions: 312‑823‑1100 (Cook) or your local CCR&R. (dhs.state.il.us, actforchildren.org, illinoiscaresforkids.org)
Medicaid/All Kids/Moms & Babies	Parents, kids, pregnancy	Adults ≤ 138% FPL; Pregnant ≤ 213% FPL; Kids ≤ 318% FPL (monthly amounts below)	Apply at ABE • All Kids 1‑866‑255‑5437. (dhs.state.il.us)
LIHEAP (Help Illinois Families)	Heat/electric bills	Apply Oct–Aug; priority groups start Oct 1; others Nov 1	HelpIllinoisFamilies.com • 1‑833‑711‑0374. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Lifeline (phone/internet)	Low‑income households	Monthly discount $9.25 on broadband; ACP ended 2024	Check Lifeline eligibility. (fcc.gov)
Unemployment (IDES)	Lost job through no fault	Weekly max $605 without dependents (2025)	File online or call 1‑800‑244‑5631. (ides.illinois.gov)

Food and Nutrition

SNAP — Illinois Link Card

Most important action: Apply now at ABE and answer your phone for the interview; ask about expedited processing if you have little or no cash on hand.

Who qualifies: Illinois uses Broad‑Based Categorical Eligibility. Most households must be under 165% FPL gross (or 200% if elderly/disabled household member), and all must meet net income ≤ 100% FPL after deductions. See IDHS income chart. (dhs.state.il.us)
Maximum monthly benefit amounts (Oct 2024–Sep 2025): set by USDA’s FY 2025 COLA.

Household	Max SNAP
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390
7	$1,536
8	$1,756
Each add’l	$220

Source: USDA/FNS FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

How to apply: ABE.Illinois.gov; or apply at your IDHS Family Community Resource Center (FCRC). If you can’t find your office, call 1‑800‑843‑6154. (abe.illinois.gov)
Timeline: Standard decisions in up to 30 days; expedited in 7 days if eligible. (dhs.state.il.us)
Manage your card: Lost card or PIN? Call the Link helpline 1‑800‑678‑5465 (24/7) or use ebtEDGE. (hfs.illinois.gov)
Local boost — Link Match: At participating farmers markets and some grocers, every $1 * * o f SN A P s p e n t e a r n s * *$ 1 in Link Match for fruits and veggies (common daily limits $5-$ 25, varies by store/market). Check locations on Link Up Illinois. (experimentalstation.org)
Common pitfalls to avoid:
- Missed interview call: keep your phone on; unknown numbers may be IDHS.
- Not reporting child care costs: this deduction can increase your benefit.
- Not safeguarding your PIN: benefits stolen with your PIN usually aren’t replaced. Use ebtEDGE to freeze your card and change PIN often. (illinoislegalaid.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for a supervisor callback at your FCRC or call the IDHS Helpline 1‑800‑843‑6154.
- For denials, file an appeal; see Illinois Legal Aid’s guidance on SNAP appeals and expedited service. (illinoislegalaid.org)

WIC — Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children

Most important action: Call WIC at 1‑800‑323‑4769 to book the first available clinic appointment; ask about remote certification options.

Monthly fruit & veg benefits (FY 2025): child $26 * *, p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
What to bring: ID, proof of address, proof of income or participation in qualifying programs, and immunization records for children.
Reality check: Rural clinics may have limited hours; ask about mobile clinics or partner sites.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to refer you to TEFAP food pantries and to confirm you for Summer EBT if your kids are eligible for free/reduced meals (see below). (fns.usda.gov)

Summer EBT (SUN Bucks)

Benefit level: $40/ m o n t h * * p ere l i g ib l ec hi l d (t y p i c a ll y * *$ 120 for summer 2024; USDA adjusts for future years). Illinois participates; benefits run through your household’s EBT. Confirm with your school or local agency each spring. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Keep school meal applications current and call your district nutrition office to make sure your child is flagged for Summer EBT when available.

Cash, Child Care, and Work Supports

TANF — Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (cash assistance)

Most important action: Apply at ABE and ask your caseworker about work activity options that fit rural schedules (school hours, farm work seasons, online training).

Current monthly payment levels (as of Mar 1, 2025) — Adult + Child:

Family size	Adult + Child TANF payment
1	$439
2	$596
3	$753
4	$910
5	$1,067
6	$1,224

Full table available from IDHS. Some households (child‑only) have different levels. (dhs.state.il.us)

Time limits: Lifetime limit is 60 months, with some months not counting if you meet specific work or hardship criteria. (illinoislegalaid.org)
How to apply: ABE.Illinois.gov or at your FCRC; questions: 1‑800‑843‑6154. (abe.illinois.gov)
Common pitfalls to avoid:
- Missing paperwork: upload every proof they ask for (ID, income, housing, child birth certificates).
- Not tracking work/education hours: keep logs; rural shift work counts.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about “hardship extensions” or consider Child Support Services to establish an order and potential support (free through HFS). See Child Support section below. (hfs.illinois.gov)

CCAP — Child Care Assistance Program

Most important action: Find a provider and submit CCAP quickly; your case can be backdated up to 7 days from when the CCR&R receives your application.

2024–2025 income gates: initial eligibility up to 225% FPL; at redetermination up to 275% FPL; program ends if income exceeds 85% SMI. Co‑pays are capped at ≤7% of income. (dhs.state.il.us)
Monthly income examples (effective July 1, 2024):

Family size	225% FPL (entry)	275% FPL (renew)	85% SMI (exit)
2	$3,833	$4,684	$5,427
3	$4,841	$5,917	$6,704
4	$5,850	$7,150	$7,981
5	$6,859	$8,383	$9,258
6	$7,868	$9,616	$10,535

Source: IDHS policy and income guideline chart. (dhs.state.il.us)

How to apply: Use the Illinois Cares for Kids CCAP application or contact your local CCR&R (Cook County families can call 312‑823‑1100 at Illinois Action for Children). (illinoiscaresforkids.org, actforchildren.org)
Reality check: In smaller towns, licensed slots may be scarce. Ask your CCR&R about license‑exempt relative care and transportation solutions for long bus routes.
Common pitfalls to avoid:
- Starting care before approval: You may owe the full cost if the case is denied.
- Missing redetermination: return the packet on time or benefits stop.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CCR&R about Head Start/Early Head Start and preschool programs, and about waitlist navigation.

Health Coverage and Medical Bills

Medicaid, All Kids, Moms & Babies — current monthly income standards

Most important action: Apply at ABE and ask the clinic if they offer Presumptive Eligibility for pregnancy (MPE) to start coverage right away.

Monthly income limits (2025):

Household size	Adults 19–64 (138% FPL)	Pregnant (Moms & Babies, 213% FPL)	Children (All Kids Assist, 318% FPL)
1	$1,799	—	—
2	$2,432	$3,754	$5,604
3	$3,064	$4,730	$7,062
4	$3,697	$5,706	$8,519
5	$4,329	$6,682	$9,977
6	$4,962	$7,659	$11,434

Source: IDHS Medical FPL standards (includes standard 5% disregard in MAGI groups). Apply at ABE; All Kids hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437 for help. (dhs.state.il.us)

Pregnancy: MPE gives temporary outpatient coverage immediately; Moms & Babies provides full coverage during pregnancy and 12 months postpartum. Find an MPE provider via the hotline. (hfs.illinois.gov)
Non‑emergency medical rides: Fee‑for‑service Medicaid enrollees call Transdev (NETSPAP) 1‑877‑725‑0569 for prior authorization and provider lists. Managed care enrollees call the number on the back of the plan card. (hfs.illinois.gov)
Common pitfalls to avoid:
- Missing documents: upload ID, residency, and income proofs.
- Not choosing an MCO: after approval, pick a plan promptly to avoid assignment delays.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Health Benefits/All Kids hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437, or Get Covered Illinois 1‑866‑311‑1119 for navigator help. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Energy, Water, Phone, and Internet

LIHEAP — Help Illinois Families (heat and electric)

Most important action: Submit the Request for Services form the first day you’re eligible and keep your phone on for the agency call‑back.

Application window: Oct 1–Aug 15 (or until funds run out). Priority groups (seniors, people with disabilities, households with kids ≤5, or disconnect notices/propane ≤25%) can start October 1; all others November 1. Call 1‑833‑711‑0374. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Income test: Up to 60% State Median Income (SMI). Example monthly 60% SMI limits: 3‑person $5, 382 * *, 4‑ p erso n * *$ 6,407, 5‑person $7,432. (dceo.illinois.gov)
What to prepare: 30‑day household income, Social Security numbers/ITINs (or agency guidance if not available), recent utility bills, lease if heat is included, disconnect notice if applicable. (sangamonil.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about emergency furnace help and utility hardship funds; call your utility to request a medical or winter protection hold if applicable.

Water bill help

Federal LIHWAP ended; some local water utilities still offer discounts or payment plans (for example, Illinois American Water’s income‑based discounts). Ask your water provider. (acf.hhs.gov, amwater.com)
Plan B: Ask your Community Action Agency if local funds remain and call 2‑1‑1 for church or township assistance.

Lifeline (phone/internet)

Lifeline: Monthly broadband/phone support usually $9.25; apply via the National Verifier.
ACP ended in 2024 due to lack of new funding; check your provider for low‑income plans. (fcc.gov)

Housing and Homelessness

Most important action: Call your county’s Community Action Agency and 2‑1‑1 for the fastest placement into any available rental or shelter funds.

Homeless Prevention Program & Emergency/Transitional Housing: IDHS funds local nonprofits to provide rent/utility arrears, security deposits, or shelter. Availability and amounts vary by county and funding cycle. Contact your local provider through 2‑1‑1 or your CAA. (dhs.state.il.us)
Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) and Public Housing: Apply through your local Public Housing Authority; many rural PHAs open waiting lists periodically. Find Illinois PHAs via HUD. (hud.gov)
Plan B: Ask the court clerk about any eviction diversion programs and contact legal aid immediately if you receive a court summons.

Child Support — free help opening or enforcing a case

Most important action: Contact HFS Division of Child Support Services to open a case or review an existing order — services are free.

Get help: Customer Service 1‑800‑447‑4278; SDU payment info 1‑877‑225‑7077. Apply or check your case online. (hfs.illinois.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask HFS about modifications if income has dropped; request parent locator services; ask for enforcement options (withholding, license actions). (hfs.illinois.gov)

Work and Income — Unemployment and job search

Most important action: File for unemployment as soon as hours are cut or you’re laid off; don’t wait.

Weekly benefit amounts (2025): Minimum $51 * *; ma x im u m * *$ 605 without dependents. Additional allowances available for a non‑working spouse or dependent child. Up to 26 weeks of benefits. File online or call 1‑800‑244‑5631. (ides.illinois.gov)
Timeline: First payment typically 2–3 weeks after filing if there are no issues. Certify every two weeks on time to avoid delays. (ides.illinois.gov)
Plan B: Ask your local workforce center about WIOA training and child‑care help while retraining; see IllinoisJobLink and your community college.

Stretch your food dollars: Link Match at markets and grocers

How it works: Spend SNAP, get a $1‑ f or ‑$ 1 match in Link Match coupons for fruits/veggies at participating farmers markets and some grocers/co‑ops (daily or per‑transaction limits vary, common cap $25). Check the statewide map. (experimentalstation.org)

Transportation to healthcare when you live far from town

Medicaid non‑emergency transportation: Fee‑for‑service members call 1‑877‑725‑0569 (Transdev) to get a list of providers and a trip authorization number; managed care members call the number on the back of the plan card. Schedule several days ahead. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for a free interpreter if needed and request a safe‑name preference on case files; all listed programs serve LGBTQ+ families. For legal help, Lambda Legal provides statewide assistance and referrals. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: CCAP prioritizes families with special‑needs children; ask CCR&R about waivers, specialized providers, and transportation. Medicaid covers durable medical equipment and therapies with prior authorization. (dhs.state.il.us)

Veteran single mothers: Pair state benefits with VA supports; check eligibility for VA healthcare and caregiver supports. For child support cases, inform HFS if the non‑custodial parent receives VA benefits.

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Illinois covers children and pregnant people regardless of immigration status in certain programs (All Kids/Moms & Babies). Use WIC and school meals; ask agencies for language access and qualified interpreters. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: Native families in Illinois can use WIC, SNAP, LIHEAP, and Lifeline. If you are affiliated with a tribe, ask if your tribe offers TANF or housing supports where you’re enrolled and use the IHS directory for clinics. Lifeline recognizes FDPIR and Tribal TANF as qualifying programs. (fcc.gov)

Single fathers: All programs here apply to single fathers with eligible children; child support and TANF rules are gender‑neutral in Illinois. Use the same hotlines and application portals.

Language access: IDHS and HFS must provide free interpreters. If you can’t understand an interview, ask for a different language or a supervisor; TTY and relay lines are listed with each agency. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Application Checklist — what to gather before you apply

Photo ID and proof of Illinois address (license/ID, utility bill, lease)
Social Security numbers/ITINs for household members (if available)
Income proof for last 30 days (pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment letter)
Proof of child care costs (for SNAP deductions and CCAP)
Rent/mortgage and utility bills
Medical verification if applying due to pregnancy or disability

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Letting calls go to voicemail: many interviews come from blocked or unknown numbers.
Not reporting changes within 10 days: income, address, household size.
Missing deadlines: redeterminations, appeals, or verification due dates.
Assuming you don’t qualify: income thresholds are higher than many expect (SNAP uses 165% FPL gross; CCAP entry is 225% FPL). (dhs.state.il.us)

Detailed Program Tables

SNAP — maximum monthly allotments (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)

Household	Max SNAP
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390
7	$1,536
8	$1,756
Each add’l	$220

Source: USDA/FNS FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

TANF — adult + child payment level (as of Mar 1, 2025)

Family size	Adult + Child TANF payment
1	$439
2	$596
3	$753
4	$910
5	$1,067
6	$1,224

Source: IDHS WAG 25‑03‑02. (dhs.state.il.us)

CCAP — monthly income gates

Family size	225% FPL (entry)	275% FPL (renew)	85% SMI (exit)
2	$3,833	$4,684	$5,427
3	$4,841	$5,917	$6,704
4	$5,850	$7,150	$7,981
5	$6,859	$8,383	$9,258
6	$7,868	$9,616	$10,535

Source: IDHS income guideline (effective 7/1/2024; next annual refresh each July). (dhs.state.il.us)

Medicaid family programs — monthly income limits (2025)

Household	Adults 19–64 (138% FPL)	Pregnant (213% FPL)	Children (318% FPL)
2	$2,432	$3,754	$5,604
3	$3,064	$4,730	$7,062
4	$3,697	$5,706	$8,519
5	$4,329	$6,682	$9,977

Source: IDHS WAG 25‑03‑02 (Medical FPLs). (dhs.state.il.us)

LIHEAP — 60% SMI monthly income examples (Program Year 2026)

Family size	Monthly limit
1	$3,332
2	$4,357
3	$5,382
4	$6,407
5	$7,432
6	$8,457

Source: DCEO How to Apply (program year dates and limits). (dceo.illinois.gov)

Taxes and Cash at Filing Time

Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit: Illinois matches 20% of your federal EITC, and filers with an ITIN and filers 18+ or 65+ can qualify. For 2024 returns, Illinois also offers a state Child Tax Credit equal to 20% of the Illinois EITC if you have a child under 12; planned to increase in future years per budget. See current IDOR guidance and Schedule IL‑E/EITC instructions. (tax.illinois.gov, capitolnewsillinois.com)
Tip: Use VITA through your local Community Action Agency for free, in‑person filing help.

Local and Regional Resources (rural‑friendly)

2‑1‑1 Illinois: One call connects you to the nearest food pantry, rent help, and transportation options — dial 2‑1‑1 or text ZIP to 898211. (211illinois.org)
Community Action Agencies: They administer LIHEAP and often run rental assistance and Head Start. Use Help Illinois Families and your county CAA to book appointments early in the month. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Food access: Pair SNAP with Link Match at farmers markets and some grocers to double your produce budget — check locations before you drive. (experimentalstation.org)
Legal aid: Illinois Legal Aid Online has county‑specific guides and phone triage; they also explain expedited SNAP and eviction steps. (illinoislegalaid.org)

Real‑world timelines and tips

SNAP: Expect 7–30 days depending on expedited status; answer calls and upload documents promptly. (dhs.state.il.us)
Medicaid/All Kids: MPE can cover pregnancy same day at participating providers; full case approvals vary by county. Keep your mail updated to avoid missed notices. (hfs.illinois.gov)
LIHEAP: Appointments book fast starting October 1; if no callback within 3 weeks, contact your county agency directly and flag any disconnect date. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Unemployment: First payment in 2–3 weeks if verified; certify on schedule and answer ID verification requests right away. (ides.illinois.gov)

Frequently Asked Questions (Illinois‑specific)

How fast can I get emergency SNAP: If you qualify for expedited service, benefits can load in 7 days. Apply at ABE and complete your interview. (dhs.state.il.us)
What’s the SNAP income cut‑off for most families: 165% FPL gross (or 200% for elderly/disabled households); everyone must meet 100% FPL net after deductions. See IDHS chart. (dhs.state.il.us)
How much will SNAP actually pay: For a family of 4, the maximum is $975/mo in FY 2025; actual benefits depend on your net income. (fns.usda.gov)
Can I get child care help if I work seasonally: Yes, CCAP allows 12‑month eligibility; entry income up to 225% FPL and copays capped ≤ 7% of income. (dhs.state.il.us)
I’m pregnant and uninsured — how do I get covered fast: Ask a clinic for MPE to start same‑day temporary coverage; then apply for Moms & Babies for full coverage. (hfs.illinois.gov)
What is the All Kids income limit: Kids qualify up to 318% FPL monthly (see table above). (dhs.state.il.us)
My power is about to be shut off — who do I call: Submit the LIHEAP request immediately and call 1‑833‑711‑0374; households with disconnect notices are priority starting Oct 1. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Does Illinois still have ACP internet discounts: No — ACP ended in 2024. Apply for Lifeline or ask your provider about low‑income plans. (fcc.gov)
What’s the maximum weekly unemployment benefit now: $605 without dependents (2025). File online or call IDES 1‑800‑244‑5631. (ides.illinois.gov)
How do I open a child support case: It’s free through HFS. Call 1‑800‑447‑4278 or apply online; payment info: SDU 1‑877‑225‑7077. (hfs.illinois.gov)

What to do if a program says no

Ask for the exact reason in writing and the deadline to appeal.
Request a supervisor review at the local office.
File an appeal if you believe the decision is wrong (Illinois Legal Aid has step‑by‑steps). (illinoislegalaid.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Illinois Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: Program rules, amounts, and timelines change. Always confirm with the official agency or hotline before making decisions. For health and safety issues, call 911 in an emergency. We take website security seriously, but you should never share full SSNs, full EBT card numbers, or PINs by email or text; use official portals or agency hotlines.

Sources (selected)

SNAP amounts and standards: USDA/FNS FY 2025 COLA; IDHS SNAP income standards; Illinois Legal Aid expedited SNAP. (fns.usda.gov, dhs.state.il.us, illinoislegalaid.org)
WIC CVB amounts: USDA/FNS WIC FY 2025 CVV/B memo. (fns.usda.gov)
TANF payment levels: IDHS WAG 25‑03‑02 (as of Mar 1, 2025). (dhs.state.il.us)
CCAP policy and income chart: IDHS guidelines and memo (July 2024). (dhs.state.il.us)
Medicaid/All Kids/Moms & Babies income limits: IDHS WAG 25‑03‑02 (Medical FPLs); HFS All Kids & MPE pages; HHS/ASPE 2025 poverty guidelines. (dhs.state.il.us, hfs.illinois.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
Medical transportation: HFS NETSPAP (Transdev). (hfs.illinois.gov)
LIHEAP program dates and 60% SMI: DCEO Help Illinois Families. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Water assistance status: ACF LIHWAP wind‑down; utility discount example. (acf.hhs.gov, amwater.com)
Lifeline/ACP status: FCC Lifeline page; FCC ACP wind‑down. (fcc.gov)
Unemployment insurance: IDES contact; 2025 weekly maximum; eligibility timelines. (ides.illinois.gov)
Child support contacts: HFS Child Support. (hfs.illinois.gov)
Link Match: Experimental Station Link Up Illinois. (experimentalstation.org)

If you need help with a specific county office or provider phone number, reply with your ZIP code and we’ll pull the direct contact and nearest in‑person help.

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