Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick help box

• If you or your child is in immediate danger: call 911.
• Child mental-health crisis line (SASS/CARES): 1-800-345-9049. Mobile crisis comes to you, 24/7 statewide. See the state’s page for how it works and what to expect. HFS crisis services overview. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Apply for Medicaid, SNAP, and cash help in one place: Apply online at ABE (Illinois Application for Benefits Eligibility). Apply at ABE.Illinois.gov. For phone help, call the DHS Helpline 1-800-843-6154 (TTY 1-800-447-6404). HFS apply for Medicaid. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Medically Fragile/Technology Dependent (MFTD) Waiver: call DSCC at 1-800-322-3722 to start. HFS MFTD Waiver info and UIC‑DSCC “How to Apply”. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Developmental disabilities waivers (PUNS list, ages 3–21): call 1-888-DD‑PLANS or 1-800-843-6154 (#4) to reach your ISC. Children’s Support Waiver. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Non‑emergency medical rides (Medicaid): fee‑for‑service riders call Transdev (NETSPAP) at 1-877-725-0569; if you’re in managed care, call the number on your plan card. HFS transportation page. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Free or reduced transit in Chicagoland: use the RTA Ride Free/Reduced Fare programs linked to the Benefit Access Program. RTA fare programs portal and Benefit Access. (rtachicago.org, ilaging.illinois.gov)

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What this guide does differently

• Plain steps first: exact phone numbers, links, and timelines upfront.
• Real dollar amounts: current 2025 figures with official sources linked and cited.
• Plan B tips: each section ends with backups if you hit a wall.
• Illinois‑specific: state portals, waivers, and local contacts only (no generic advice).

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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Start here

Best first step: Apply at ABE for Medicaid (All Kids), SNAP, and cash help in one application. You can submit now, upload docs later, and track with your ABE “T‑number.” HFS applying guide. (hfs.illinois.gov)

• Phone application: 1-800-843-6154 (TTY 1-800-447-6404). Ask for your case number at the end of the call.
• In‑person: use the DHS office locator to find your local FCRC; if you need coverage while you gather documents, still submit—the filing date matters.

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Emergency supports now

• Mental health crisis for a child: call 1-800-345-9049 (SASS/CARES). Responders assess safety and can authorize services quickly; managed‑care plans must allow at least 30 days of community behavioral health services after a crisis. HFS mobile crisis info. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• No heat or lights: LIHEAP intake starts each fall; if you have a shut‑off notice or under 25% propane, you may qualify for priority processing. See current dates and 60% SMI income limits below or call 1-833-711-0374. DCEO LIHEAP “How to Apply”. (dceo.illinois.gov)
• Domestic violence safety planning: reach the Illinois DV hotline 1-877-863-6338 or dial 988 and ask for DV resources; shelters can help with transfers, locks, orders of protection, and rapid re‑housing.

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Medicaid and All Kids for children with disabilities

Key action: Apply at ABE and check the “Medical” box. Children get robust coverage, including therapies, nursing (when medically necessary), durable equipment, and non‑emergency medical transportation. You can track the application; standard decisions take up to 45 days (disability cases can take longer). HFS applying guide. (hfs.illinois.gov)

• Non‑emergency medical transportation: fee‑for‑service riders call Transdev/NETSPAP 1-877-725-0569 for provider listings and prior authorization; managed‑care riders call the number on the plan card. HFS NEMT page. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Behavioral health: for a mental‑health crisis, call SASS/CARES 1-800-345-9049. After a crisis response, children have open access to community behavioral services for at least 30 days. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Useful contacts: HFS Health Benefits Hotline 1-800-226-0768 (TTY 1-877-204-1012). HFS useful contacts. (hfs.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for a Fair Hearing in writing if your application stalls beyond timelines or is denied; call your legislator’s office for constituent services; reach out to Equip for Equality (Protection & Advocacy) 1-800-537-2632 if disability‑based barriers arise. Equip for Equality contact info. (equipforequality.org)

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Medically Fragile/Technology‑Dependent (MFTD) Waiver (Home Care Program)

Key action: call DSCC at 1-800-322-3722 to start your screening and care‑coordination. This waiver provides in‑home shift nursing, respite, environmental modifications, and specialized equipment for children who would otherwise require hospital or skilled‑nursing facility care; if enrolled before 21, many can remain on the program into adulthood. HFS MFTD waiver. (hfs.illinois.gov)

• Income note: the waiver focuses on medical level‑of‑care and cost neutrality; DSCC coordinates with HFS on financial eligibility. DSCC’s state‑wide line is above; offices and online application are on their site. UIC‑DSCC. (dscc.uic.edu)
• Nursing workforce: DSCC created “NurseNet” to help families find agencies with available nurses. See DSCC’s Home Care Information Hub for rate updates and tips. (dscc.uic.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask DSCC to escalate staffing barriers (multiple agencies, temporary alternative coverage), request a case conference with your plan, and document all denials. If delays jeopardize safety, call SASS/CARES for crisis planning, and contact Equip for Equality for advocacy. (equipforequality.org)

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Developmental Disabilities waivers for children and young adults (ages 3–21)

Key action: get on the PUNS database and connect with your local ISC to access the state’s DD waiver services.

• Children’s Support Waiver (ages 3–21, living at home, ICF/ID level of care): personal support, behavior intervention, home mods, adaptive equipment, vehicle mods, caregiver counseling, and more. Family income is waived for Medicaid eligibility; the child’s resources are considered. HFS Support Waiver page. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Children’s Residential Waiver (ages 3–21, ICF/IID level of care): group‑home supports and related services when in‑home supports are not enough. HFS Residential Waiver page. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• How to enter: call 1-888‑DD‑PLANS (TTY 1-866-376-8446) to be linked to your ISC; or call 1-800-843-6154 (#4). (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Wait times: Illinois is reducing time on PUNS under the Ligas decree; DHS has targeted shorter waits and is selecting additional children for services. (dph.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your ISC for Early Notification, confirm crisis criteria if your situation worsens, and register for The Arc of Illinois Family Advocate Program to prepare for selection and build your plan. Family Advocate Program line 1-866-931-1110. (thearcofil.org)

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Early Intervention (birth to 3)

Key action: call your local Child and Family Connections (CFC) office to request an evaluation if you suspect a delay. Services may include OT, PT, speech, developmental therapy, and service coordination. The state maintains a locator and program overview. (dcfs.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for a meeting with the CFC manager, request your procedural safeguards in writing, and contact DSCC if medical complexity is involved—they can coordinate with EI and health systems. (dscc.uic.edu)

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Special education and 504 supports in K–12

Key action: send a dated, written evaluation request to your school. Illinois’ initial evaluation must be completed within 60 school days after you give consent. (isbe.net)

• Know your options: ISBE provides a comprehensive Parent Guide (IEP/504, discipline, ESY, dispute resolution). See timelines for complaints (60 days) and due process (75 days). (isbe.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: send a state complaint to ISBE, consider mediation, or request due process. Keep a binder with evaluation dates, emails, and IEP notes; late/missed services can trigger compensatory education. (isbe.net)

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SNAP for groceries

• Maximum monthly SNAP benefits through Sept 30, 2025 (48 states): household of 1 $292\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$536, 3 $768\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$975, 5 $1,158\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$1,390, 7 $1,536\ast \ast ,8\ast \ast$1,756; +$220\ast \ast eachadditionalperson.Theminimumbenefitremains\ast \ast$23. (fns.usda.gov)
• Shelter deduction cap increased to $712\ast \ast ;standarddeductionforHHsize1–3is\ast \ast$204. Asset limits are $3,000\ast \ast normaland\ast \ast$4,500 if someone is elderly/disabled (note that many households are “categorically eligible” via other programs). (fns.usda.gov)
• Apply: at ABE, or use the state SNAP calculator first to estimate. SNAP calculator. (fscalc.dhs.illinois.gov)

SNAP maximums table (FY 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for an expedited interview if you have under $150 monthly gross income or very low cash on hand; contact your caseworker’s supervisor, then request an appeal if deadlines are missed. Keep copies of your application and interview notes.

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WIC for pregnant/postpartum parents, infants, and kids under 5

• Income limit is 185% FPL. For July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026, the monthly limits are: 1 $2,413\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$3,261, 3 $4,109\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$4,957, 5 $5,805\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$6,653, 7 $7,501\ast \ast ,8\ast \ast$8,349. (fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov)
• Call the WIC hotline 1-800-323-4769 (TTY 1-866-295-6817) to find your nearest clinic. (hfs.illinois.gov)

WIC monthly income limits (July 2025–June 2026)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if clinic lines are busy, ask your local health department for WIC intake slots; if denied, request the reason in writing and appeal; remember that being on SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid confers adjunct eligibility.

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Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), including special‑needs supports

Key action: check eligibility and apply with your local CCR&R agency; the CCAP eligibility calculator and CCR&R finder are online. Initial eligibility is up to 225% FPL, with a redetermination “exit” up to 275% FPL. Co‑pays are capped at 7% of income. (dhs.state.il.us)

• Special‑needs add‑on: site‑administered contracted providers may receive a 20% rate add‑on for children with documented disabilities—used for adaptive equipment and specialized training. Ask your provider if they participate. (dhs.state.il.us)

CCAP income guide using 2025 FPL (monthly)

Note: figures calculated from 2025 HHS poverty guidelines used by WIC (100% monthly FPL is $1,305forahouseholdof1,$1,755 for 2, etc.). State CCAP publishes official charts each July—confirm when you apply. (federalregister.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask CCR&R about grace periods while you job‑hunt or change shifts; if your child has high needs, request inclusion supports and ask your provider about the disability add‑on; appeal denials in writing.

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Cash assistance: TANF

Key action: if income is very low, apply for TANF at ABE. As of March 1, 2025, Illinois payment levels (adult and child) are: 1 $439\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$596, 3 $753\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$910, 5 $1,067\ast \ast (child‑onlygrantsarelower:1\ast \ast$329, 2 $447\ast \ast ,3\ast \ast$565, etc.). Initial Employment Deduction amounts also increased in 2025. See the state table for full sizes. (dhs.state.il.us)

• Good to know: if you’re on TANF, Illinois now “passes through” the full child support collected to your family, instead of keeping it. (hfs.illinois.gov)

TANF monthly payment examples (as of March 2025)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if you face a sanction or missed appointment, ask for a conciliation meeting; bring doctor letters if your child’s care limits your work hours; you can request reasonable accommodations based on your caregiving and health needs.

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Housing and utilities

• Section 811 PRA: IHDA’s program subsidizes units for extremely low‑income people with disabilities referred through the Statewide Referral Network. Ask your caseworker about referrals and check property opportunities. (ihda.org)
• Find accessible and affordable rentals: search ILHousingSearch.org or call 1-877-428-8844 for listings statewide with accessibility filters. (ilhousingsearch.org)
• LIHEAP: the 2025–26 program year opens October 1, 2025 for priority groups (disability households; seniors; families with kids 5 and under; shut‑off/low propane), and November 1, 2025 for all others. Income limits are based on 60% State Median Income (e.g., family of 3 monthly $5,382). Apply via HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or call 1-833-711-0374. (dceo.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: for rent help, call your Community Action Agency; ask your utility about medical hardship notes; in Cook County, ask about special medical protections for life‑support devices.

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Transportation supports

• Medicaid rides: fee‑for‑service riders call 1-877-725-0569; managed‑care riders use the plan’s member services number (on card). (hfs.illinois.gov)
• RTA Reduced Fare/Ride Free (CTA/Metra/Pace): seniors and people with disabilities qualify for reduced fare; households approved for the Benefit Access Program ride free. Apply or renew online; RTA customer service 312-913-3110. (rtachicago.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask for a supervisor if rides are repeatedly late/cancelled; escalate with HFS Transportation email if needed; for RTA card issues, request a replacement and ask about ADA Paratransit eligibility.

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Social Security: SSI for children and ABLE accounts

• SSI 2025 Federal Benefit Rate: individual $967/month\ast \ast ;couple\ast \ast$1,450/month. State supplements vary; countable income and in‑kind support affect amounts. (ssa.gov)
• ABLE accounts (Illinois ABLE): up to $100,000\ast \ast inanABLEaccountisexcludedfromSSIresources;balancesabovethatcansuspendcashSSIbutMedicaidcontinuesifotherwiseeligible.2025annualcontributionlimitis\ast \ast$19,000 (higher if working under ABLE‑to‑Work rules). See IL ABLE FAQs and SSA POMS. (ssa.gov, irs.gov, secure.ssa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if SSA denies your child’s SSI, appeal within the deadline on the letter; ask your doctors for functional evidence (how the condition limits daily life); consult legal aid for hearings.

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Assistive technology, equipment, and home mods

• Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP): free device loans, reuse program for durable medical equipment at no cost, and demonstrations to try technology before buying. Call 1-800-852-5110 or (217) 522‑7985. Springfield demo center available by appointment. (iltech.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask IATP about reuse inventory and low‑cost options, and lean on your child’s therapist/physician for medical‑necessity letters so Medicaid or your waiver covers devices.

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Legal advocacy and rights

• Protection & Advocacy: Equip for Equality helps with disability rights, school problems, abuse/neglect, and benefits barriers. Main line 1-800-537-2632 (Chicago 312-341-0022). (equipforequality.org)
• Employment rights and pay equity: Illinois’ Dignity in Pay Act is phasing out subminimum wages for workers with disabilities by December 31, 2029, with steps underway in 2025. (icdd.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if you face discrimination, document everything and call Equip for Equality; for special education disputes, use ISBE’s complaint and mediation processes.

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Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 has an LGBTQ+ subnetwork; Illinois continues support for affirming services. Ask schools for name/pronoun use and safe‑school plans; use RTA programs without fear—eligibility is based on disability or BAP approval. (myjournalcourier.com)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: ask DHS/DRS about the Home Services Program if you also have a disability affecting daily living, and request reasonable accommodations from benefit agencies. Overview of HSP waivers is on HFS, with DRS as the operating agency. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: ask VA social work about caregiver stipends and CHAMPVA; Illinois RTA programs accept Medicare cards for reduced fare if you’re under 65 and on Medicare. (rtachicago.org)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: many child benefits (WIC, school meals, Early Intervention) do not require a parent’s citizenship; verify for your child’s status. WIC has no citizenship requirement. (wegotyouillinois.org)
• Tribal citizens: SNAP has special ABAWD exemptions for some Native Americans; check with DHS when applying. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Rural single moms: use ILHousingSearch.org filters for accessibility and distance to services; for rides to specialists, coordinate Medicaid NEMT well in advance and ask for recurring trip approvals. (ilhousingsearch.org, hfs.illinois.gov)
• Single fathers: most programs are gender‑neutral in eligibility; the steps and contacts in this guide apply.
• Language access: DHS and RTA can accommodate over 200 languages; request interpreters and translated notices. (equipforequality.org)

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Local organizations and support

• UIC Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC): statewide care coordination and Home Care/MFTD operating agency; main line 1-800-322-3722. (dscc.uic.edu)
• The Arc of Illinois: Family‑to‑Family Health Information Center for CYSHCN; help line 1-866-931-1110; Spanish line 1-800-588-7002. (thearcofil.org)
• RTA Customer Service: 312-913-3110 for Ride Free/Reduced Fare and ADA paratransit questions. (rtachicago.org)

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Application checklist

• Identity and SSNs: driver’s ID/state ID, child’s birth certificate, Social Security numbers (if any).
• Address: lease, utility bill, or official mail.
• Income: last 30 days of pay stubs, child support letters, unemployment, award letters (SSI/VA), self‑employment logs.
• Expenses: rent/mortgage, childcare receipts, medical bills, utility bills.
• Medical/education: doctor letters, therapy plans, IEP/504, nursing orders, DME estimates.
• Banking/resources: current balances and ABLE account statements (if any).

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing interviews or calls: answer unknown numbers and check ABE messages. Missed SNAP/TANF interviews cause denials.
• Not asking for expedited help: if you have a shut‑off notice or very low cash/food, request expedited SNAP/LIHEAP.
• Sending originals: upload clear photos or copies; keep originals.
• Under‑reporting medical costs: elderly/disabled SNAP households can deduct out‑of‑pocket medical expenses to increase benefits.
• Skipping appeals: you usually have 10–30 days to appeal—read the notice and file on time.

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What to expect: timelines

• SNAP: up to 30 days for regular processing; 7 days if expedited.
• Medicaid: generally up to 45 days; disability determinations can take longer. Keep your T‑number and case number.
• TANF: generally 30 days from application if all verifications are in.
• Waivers: MFTD and DD waivers depend on medical level‑of‑care, documentation, and slot availability; start early and keep copies of every form.

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Regional resources (examples)

• Chicagoland: RTA programs; Cook/Collar County Community Action Agencies for LIHEAP; major children’s hospitals have Family Resource Centers that can coordinate DSCC referrals.
• Northern/Central/Southern Illinois: local CCR&Rs, CFC offices, Community Action Agencies, and DSCC regional offices; ask your FCRC for county‑specific emergency help lists.

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Quick reference tables you’ll likely need again

Which children’s waiver fits

Sources: HFS waiver pages. (hfs.illinois.gov)

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FAQs (Illinois‑specific)

• How do I start a Medicaid/NEMT ride for a specialist two counties away: fee‑for‑service riders call 1-877-725-0569 early to confirm provider and prior authorization; MCO members call the number on the plan card. Build in extra time for recurring approvals. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• My child needs in‑home nursing—who approves that: DSCC coordinates the MFTD Waiver with HFS. Start by calling 1-800-322-3722; expect medical documentation and a level‑of‑care assessment. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Are WIC incomes updated for 2025–26: yes; monthly limit for a family of 3 is $4,109 (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). (fns.usda.gov)
• What are the current SNAP maximums: for a family of 4 it’s $975 per month through September 30, 2025; see full table above. (fns.usda.gov)
• What is the TANF payment for a family of 3: as of March 1, 2025, adult+child unit receives $753\ast \ast permonth(child‑only\ast \ast$565). (dhs.state.il.us)
• Can a family member be paid to help with care: some programs allow this (e.g., DD Personal Support Workers and certain DRS Home Services models). Ask your ISC or DRS counselor for options. (ilaging.illinois.gov)
• Does Illinois offer free or reduced transit for disability: yes—Benefit Access + RTA Ride Free/Reduced Fare programs. Apply online; info line 312-913-3110. (rtachicago.org)
• What’s the SSI amount in 2025: federal base is $967\ast \ast foranindividual;someincomereducesthis.Consideropeningan\ast \ast ILABLE\ast \ast accounttoprotectsavingsupto\ast \ast$100,000 from SSI resource limits. (ssa.gov)
• Who helps if the school misses services in my child’s IEP: you can file an ISBE state complaint; the state aims to resolve within 60 calendar days. (isbe.net)
• Where can I get durable medical equipment if insurance is delayed: try IATP’s Reuse program and device loans; call 1-800-852-5110. (iltech.org)

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Plan B playbook if you hit red tape

• Document: keep a simple log with dates, names, and what was said.
• Escalate: ask for supervisors; for Medicaid plan issues, file a grievance and request an expedited appeal if health is at risk.
• Parallel options: apply for SNAP/WIC while Medicaid is pending; ask DSCC/ISC to coordinate interim supports; contact legal advocates early.

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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.

Editorial standards: Produced under our Editorial Standards with primary sources, link testing, and rapid updates.

Independence: We are not a government agency and cannot guarantee outcomes.

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

Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we will respond within 48–72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Accuracy and changes: Program rules, dollar amounts, portals, and timelines change. Always confirm with the linked agency or your local office before applying.

Health and legal: This guide is informational, not medical or legal advice. For medical emergencies, call 911. For mental‑health crises, call 1-800-345-9049 (SASS/CARES) or 988.

Security: Use official state portals linked above. Avoid sharing personal information over public Wi‑Fi. Enable two‑factor authentication on ABE and My Social Security.

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Sources linked and cited

• MFTD Waiver: HFS program page; DSCC application and contact. (hfs.illinois.gov, dscc.uic.edu)
• SNAP FY 2025: USDA COLA memo and elderly/disabled rules. (fns.usda.gov)
• WIC 2025–26: USDA/Federal Register income guidelines. (fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov)
• TANF 2025: IDHS TANF payment levels updated March 2025. (dhs.state.il.us)
• SSI 2025: SSA Red Book and COLA pages; ABLE rules and IRS gift exclusion for 2025. (ssa.gov, irs.gov)

If you need numbers not listed above, tell me your county and family size and I will pull your exact contact and current amounts.

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