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Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Illinois

Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency, first

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you need a safe plan, a shelter bed, a ride, or legal help, call the statewide hotline below right now. Trained advocates can search the entire state for openings and coordinate transportation.


Quick help box

Why this matters right now in Illinois

  • Hotline demand is at record levels: In 2024, the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline logged 59,704 contacts, up 26% from 2023 and 140% since 2019. Shelter requests hit 18,940 statewide. In Chicago there were 130 days with no DV shelter beds or cribs; in the suburbs, 173 days. (wbez.org, wsiu.org)
  • Domestic violence deaths surged: The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported 120 deaths across 94 incidents in 2023, a 110% increase from 2022. Firearms were involved in 68% of deaths. (chicago.suntimes.com)
  • New firearm‑removal law: “Karina’s Bill” became law on February 10, 2025, requiring police to remove guns within 96 hours when a judge orders firearm remedies with an order of protection, and allowing search‑and‑seizure warrants in high‑risk cases. (nprillinois.org, wbez.org)

Reality check: Shelter space is tight and transfers take time, especially outside major cities. Use the hotline to coordinate short‑term hotel stays, rides, and alternate counties if your area is full. (nprillinois.org)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Topic What you can do today Where to do it
Find an open shelter Call statewide hotline; ask to search statewide bed availability and for “hotel placement” if no beds 877‑863‑6338; Illinois DV Hotline info (ilcadv.org)
File an Illinois Order of Protection Use free statewide court forms; request an emergency order the same day Illinois Courts Order of Protection forms (illinoiscourts.gov)
Ask for a VAWA Emergency Transfer (public housing or voucher) Contact your housing authority’s victim assistance staff Chicago: 312‑913‑7396 (Public Housing), 312‑935‑2600 (HCV) (thecha.org)
Change locks or break a lease Use the Illinois Safe Homes Act rights Safe Homes Act overview (illinoislegalaid.org)
Keep your address private Enroll in the Illinois Address Confidentiality Program IL Attorney General ACP (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)
Get cash/food help fast Apply for TANF and SNAP online Illinois ABE application portal and SNAP/TANF rules below (see amounts) (dhs.state.il.us)

Orders of Protection in Illinois: the fastest legal protection

Start here because a judge’s order can force the abuser to stay away, remove guns, give you temporary custody, and order the sheriff to serve papers at no cost.

What you do first

  • File the standard petition: Use the free statewide forms. You can file in person or online. There are no filing or sheriff service fees. (illinoiscourts.gov, ilga.gov)
  • Ask for an Emergency Order of Protection (EOP): Courts can hear emergency requests the same day; in larger counties you can request a remote hearing. (illinoislegalaid.org)
  • Include firearm remedies: After “Karina’s Bill,” judges may issue a firearm search‑and‑seizure warrant; police must act within 96 hours when ordered. Use the new “Search Warrant for Seizure of Firearms” form in the statewide packet. (illinoiscourts.gov, wbez.org)

How long orders last

Order type Typical duration Notes
Emergency 14–21 days Fast, can be granted without notifying the abuser in advance. (ilga.gov)
Interim Up to 30 days Often used between court dates. (ilga.gov)
Plenary Up to 2 years (can be extended) Can include custody, housing, and firearm terms. (ilga.gov)

Where to file and get help

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • No same‑day court access: Go to a domestic violence agency; many have advocates who can walk you to the right courtroom and help with affidavits. Use the hotline to find an advocate near you. 877‑863‑6338. (ilcadv.org)
  • If service is delayed: Ask the clerk for “special process server” or coordinate with the sheriff in a different county at no cost. Cite 750 ILCS 60/202(b). (ilga.gov)

Housing and safety: stay or go, you have options

If you need to move immediately (public housing or voucher)

  • Request a VAWA Emergency Transfer: You do not have to be “in good standing” to request a safety transfer. Chicago residents can call 312‑913‑7396 (Public Housing) or 312‑935‑2600 (HCV); ask for the VAWA Emergency Transfer process. You can self‑certify with HUD Form 5382 or use professional or police documentation. (thecha.org)
  • What to expect: Transfers are subject to unit availability. If approved, CHA covers moving logistics for public housing residents and keeps your new address confidential. (thecha.org)
  • Plan B: If your PHA is slow, request portability to another PHA area or ask a DV program for hotel placement while you wait. Use the hotline to coordinate. (capitolfax.com)

If you rent from a private landlord

  • Change the locks within 48 hours: Under the Illinois Safe Homes Act, your landlord must change locks within 48 hours after proper written notice and documentation—or you may change them yourself and give the landlord a key. (law.justia.com)
  • Break your lease: You can end your lease early if you provide proper notice and proof (police report, court order, or statement from a DV/rape crisis program). Steps and templates are outlined by Illinois Legal Aid Online. (illinoislegalaid.org)
  • Keep your address off public records: Apply to the free Illinois Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) for a substitute address to use with government agencies and on your ID. Phone 844‑916‑0295 or apply online via the AG website. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Landlord refuses: Send notice by certified mail, keep copies, cite 765 ILCS 750/20 (Safe Homes Act), and consider small claims or legal aid help. (law.justia.com)
  • Eviction threats for calling police: Some “crime‑free housing” rules are being limited—document any retaliation and seek legal help. (myjournalcourier.com)

Money and benefits that can bridge the gap

When you leave, cash and food help can keep the lights on. Here are Illinois‑specific numbers current through September 2025.

Crime Victim Compensation (AG’s Office)

  • Maximum reimbursement: Up to 45,000∗∗perclaim(crimesonorafter∗∗August7,2022∗∗;priormaximum∗∗45,000** per claim (crimes on or after **August 7, 2022**; prior maximum **27,000). Covers medical/dental, counseling, funeral, relocation, crime‑scene cleanup, locks/doors/windows, replacement services up to $1,250/month, and more. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov, ilga.gov)
  • Relocation: First 2 months’ rent and security deposit can be reimbursed when related to the crime. (ilga.gov)
  • Where to start: Call 800‑228‑3368 or review eligibility and apply via the AG’s site. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Denied or delayed: Ask for help from an advocate or legal aid; appeals are possible. Keep all receipts and police/court documents.

Temporary cash: TANF for families with kids

  • Who qualifies: Low‑income families with a child in the home; Illinois counts only 25% of earned wages due to the 75% Earned Income Deduction. (il.db101.org)
  • Current maximum monthly TANF grant (adult + child unit, effective 03/01/2025):
Family size Maximum grant
1 $439
2 $596
3 $753
4 $910
5 $1,067
6 $1,224

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

  • How to apply: Online at ABE or in person at an IDHS Family & Community Resource Center. Processing often takes 30 days; emergency needs can speed up related SNAP. (dhs.state.il.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your income is slightly over: Reapply after leaving the household with the abuser; your countable income may change. Ask about domestic violence “good cause” waivers for program rules.

Food help: SNAP amounts and income limits (FY 2025, Oct 2024 – Sep 2025)

  • Maximum monthly SNAP benefit (48 states/DC):
Household size Max allotment
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 SNAP FY 2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

  • Illinois gross income screens (most households use 165% FPL; elderly/disabled can use 200% FPL). Examples:
Size 165% FPL gross (monthly) 100% FPL net (monthly)
2 $2,811 $1,704
3 $3,551 $2,152
4 $4,290 $2,600

Source: IDHS MR#24.19, Oct 2024 SNAP adjustments. (dhs.state.il.us)

  • How to apply fast: Apply at ABE; if your income is very low or you are homeless, you may get “expedited” SNAP within 7 days.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Documents mismatch: Submit any proof you have now and upload more later. Ask a DV advocate for help with verification when you cannot safely obtain documents from your abuser.

Work and income protections you can use

Leaving abuse often means missed work, court, and child care scrambles. Illinois has several powerful rights.

Paid leave you can use for any reason

  • Statewide: Most workers earn up to 40 hours paid leave per year—no reason needed. Accrues 1 hour per 40 hours worked; usage generally after 90 days. File complaints with IDOL if denied. (labor.illinois.gov)
  • Chicago (stronger): Workers accrue up to 40 hours paid leave and 40 hours paid sick and safe leave (separate banks), 1 hour per 35 hours worked. Paid sick leave usable after 30 days, paid leave after 90 days; carryover rules apply. (chicago.gov, natlawreview.com)
  • Cook County (outside Chicago): Employers must provide at least 1 hour per 40 hours worked of paid leave for any reason. (cookcountyil.gov)

Unpaid, job‑protected leave for DV: VESSA

  • Coverage: Employers with 15–49 employees must provide up to 8 weeks; 50+ employees must provide up to 12 weeks in a 12‑month period to seek medical care, counseling, relocation, legal remedies, or safety planning. Employers under 15 employees are not covered. (labor.illinois.gov)
  • Bereavement for crime of violence: Up to 2 weeks unpaid if a family or household member is killed in a crime of violence; part of recent amendments. (labor.illinois.gov)
  • How to use it: Provide a sworn statement plus one document (police/court record, medical note, or a letter from a DV advocate/attorney/doctor/clergy). Keep employer communications confidential by law. (ilga.gov)

Unemployment if you left work because of domestic violence

  • Good cause: You may qualify for unemployment if you left a job due to verified domestic violence that made continued work unsafe. Provide notice to your employer and one piece of proof (order of protection, police report, medical documentation, or advocate/attorney letter). (law.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If HR pushes back: Send them the official IDOL and statute links above; consider filing a complaint with IDOL or seeking legal aid help.

Healthcare, counseling, and trauma care

  • Medicaid mental health and crisis providers: Use the state’s SPIDER search and Mobile Crisis Response for immediate behavioral health help. Managed Care plans must help you find in‑network counselors. (hfs.illinois.gov)
  • DV agency counseling: IDHS funds nearly 70 DV programs; services are free. Use the ILCADV “Find a Provider” map to locate counseling, legal advocacy, children’s services, and support groups. (illinois.gov, ilcadv.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Waitlists: Ask about telehealth, group sessions, or referrals to neighboring counties; advocates can often fast‑track survivors with safety risks.

Legal steps beyond Orders of Protection

  • Stalking No Contact Orders and Civil No Contact Orders (sexual assault) are available even if the abuser isn’t a family/household member. Use the statewide simplified forms and ILAO Easy Forms. (illinoiscourts.gov, illinoislegalaid.org)
  • Court fees: Petitions for protection orders are free to file and serve. Cite 750 ILCS 60/202(b) if a clerk or sheriff staffer is unsure. (ilga.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your county website is confusing: Go straight to the statewide forms links above or call the hotline to connect with a courthouse advocate.

Money, housing, and legal help at a glance

Program What it covers Current amounts/timelines Where to apply/learn more
Crime Victim Compensation Medical, counseling, funeral, relocation, locks/windows, replacement services Up to 45,000∗∗;replacementservicesupto∗∗45,000**; replacement services up to **1,250/month; relocation includes first 2 months’ rent + security deposit AG Crime Victim Compensation (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov, ilga.gov)
TANF cash Monthly cash for families Max grant for 3‑person family $753; amounts scale by size; processing around 30 days IDHS TANF (WAG 25‑03‑02) (dhs.state.il.us)
SNAP food Monthly EBT food benefits 3‑person household up to 768∗∗;4‑person∗∗768**; 4‑person **975 (FY 2025); expedited in 7 days if eligible USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA (fns.usda.gov)
Housing safety Emergency transfers; lock changes; lease breaks; address privacy VAWA transfers; Safe Homes lock change in 48 hours; ACP keeps addresses confidential; lease termination with proof CHA VAWA; Safe Homes Act; ACP (thecha.org, illinoislegalaid.org, illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)
Time off work Paid leave; unpaid DV leave; bereavement for violence State paid leave 40 hours; Chicago adds 40 hours paid sick/safe; VESSA 8–12 weeks unpaid depending on employer size IDOL Paid Leave; Chicago OLS; IDOL VESSA (labor.illinois.gov, chicago.gov)

Step‑by‑step: filing an Illinois Order of Protection today

  1. Get the forms
    Use the statewide packet or the ILAO Easy Form (mobile‑friendly). Have a safe mailing address; if not, ask for “contact information under seal.” (illinoiscourts.gov, illinoislegalaid.org)
  2. Describe recent incidents clearly
    Include dates, threats, injuries, weapons, children’s presence, and prior reports.
  3. Ask for key remedies
    Exclusive possession of the home, no contact/stay‑away, temporary custody and parenting time limits, support, firearm removal and search warrant, phone/GPS/tech abuse restrictions. The forms include these checkboxes. (illinoiscourts.gov)
  4. File and request an emergency hearing
    In most counties, you can be heard the same day. Remote hearings may be available in large counties. (illinoislegalaid.org)
  5. Service is free
    Sheriff service is free. Provide as much info as possible (work hours, vehicle, usual hangouts) to speed service. (ilga.gov)
  6. Keep certified copies and your Hope Card
    For plenary orders, ask about a wallet‑sized Hope Card accepted by law enforcement. (law.justia.com)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not asking for firearm remedies when you qualify. After the 2025 law change, enforcement is stronger if the order includes seizure language. (wbez.org)
  • Leaving tech access open: Change passwords, remove shared Apple IDs/Google accounts, turn off location sharing on all devices.
  • Giving your real address on public forms: Use ACP and ask the clerk about sealed contact info. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)
  • Waiting for a shelter bed before you act: File the order and call the hotline; advocates can place you in hotels and arrange rides if beds are full. (capitolfax.com)

Application checklist

  • Identity and safe contact: A safe phone/email; ACP application if needed. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)
  • Proof of abuse (any one helps): Police report, photos, medical records, sworn advocate letter, copies of threats.
  • For Safe Homes lock change or lease break: Written notice to landlord; police/medical/court/advocate letter; or a plenary order with exclusive possession if the abuser is on the lease. (law.justia.com)
  • Money docs: Recent income, rent, and utility bills to apply for TANF/SNAP quickly. (dhs.state.il.us)
  • Children’s records: School/daycare info for orders of protection forms (there is a confidential school form in the packet). (illinoiscourts.gov)

Timelines you can expect

  • Emergency order hearing: often same day; emergency orders last 14–21 days. (ilga.gov)
  • Plenary hearing: usually within a few weeks; plenary orders can last up to 2 years, with extensions possible. (ilga.gov)
  • SNAP: expedited in 7 days if eligible; standard 30 days. (fns.usda.gov)
  • TANF: around 30 days (varies by county). (dhs.state.il.us)
  • ACP address change: initial application online; follow AG instructions; phone support 844‑916‑0295. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)

Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for providers with LGBTQ+‑affirming counseling. In Chicago, consider health centers with LGBTQ+ services and ask any shelter for trans‑inclusive placement. Use VAWA and Safe Homes—these rights protect you regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Key tip: Boldly ask for a staff advocate who has worked with LGBTQ+ survivors—this is normal and can speed things up. (thecha.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Tell the hotline you need an accessible room or a first‑floor unit and ask for “reasonable accommodation.” For ongoing services, use Medicaid’s Mobile Crisis Response and SPIDER database to find trauma‑informed counseling and developmental supports. (hfs.illinois.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: You can use VAWA housing rights. Also ask VA social workers about emergency stays and relocation grants for survivors. Pair VA with Illinois Crime Victim Compensation for relocation and counseling costs. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can seek orders of protection and most services regardless of immigration status. ACP is open if you live in Illinois or plan to move here soon; no police report is required to enroll. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov)
  • Tribal citizens and Native families: While Illinois has no reservations, ask for culturally informed services and confidentiality; agencies can connect you to Native‑led organizations and federal victim services.
  • Rural single moms with limited access: Tell hotline staff you need transportation; the Safe Rides program and Uber Health rides are used to reach open shelters, often across counties. Hotel placements fill gaps when no beds are free. (nprillinois.org)
  • Single fathers: All rights described here apply regardless of gender. Shelters may place dads with kids in hotel programs when family shelters are full—ask the hotline for family‑friendly placements. (nprillinois.org)
  • Language access: The statewide hotline offers multilingual advocates and interpretation. Ask for documents and posters in your language; state paid‑leave and court resources provide translations. (search.211illinois.org, labor.illinois.gov)

Local organizations and legal help

Use these statewide directories to find the nearest program and contact details:

If you prefer phone guidance to locate a nearby agency or courthouse advocate, call 877‑863‑6338 and ask the hotline to connect you. (ilcadv.org)

Real‑world scenarios

  • Example—lease and locks: You share a lease with the abuser. You get an emergency order the same day with “exclusive possession.” Under the Safe Homes Act, your landlord must change locks within 48 hours, or you may change them and give a key. If you still feel unsafe, you can terminate the lease with proper notice and documentation. (law.justia.com)
  • Example—public housing transfer: You live in CHA housing. After a police report and an advocate letter, you request a VAWA emergency transfer. CHA approves and covers movers; your new address is kept confidential. If approval takes time, your advocate can ask for a hotel placement via the hotline. (thecha.org)

FAQs (Illinois‑specific)

  • What’s the fastest way to get protection today: Emergency Order of Protection—same‑day hearing in most counties. Use statewide forms or ILAO Easy Form. No fees to file or serve. (illinoiscourts.gov, ilga.gov)
  • How long do orders last: Emergency 14–21 days; interim up to 30 days; plenary up to 2 years (extensions allowed). (ilga.gov)
  • Can a judge remove the abuser’s guns: Yes. Judges can order firearm surrender and issue a firearm search warrant; police must act within 96 hours when ordered. (wbez.org)
  • How do I change my locks quickly: Under the Safe Homes Act, landlords must change locks within 48 hours after you give proper notice and proof—or you can change them and provide a key. (law.justia.com)
  • Can I break my lease: Yes, with proper notice and proof of DV/SA/stalking. Ask a DV advocate for templates. (illinoislegalaid.org)
  • What if the shelter is full: Ask for hotel placement and transportation; the hotline coordinates rides and temporary stays. (nprillinois.org)
  • Do I get paid time off for court and relocation: Statewide paid leave gives 40 hours annually for any reason; VESSA gives 8–12 weeks unpaid, job‑protected leave depending on employer size; Chicago adds 40 more paid sick/safe hours. (labor.illinois.gov, chicago.gov)
  • Can I get unemployment if I quit due to DV: Yes, with notice and one piece of proof (order, police report, medical documentation, or advocate letter). (law.justia.com)
  • How much help can I get for relocation costs: Crime Victim Compensation may reimburse first two months’ rent, security deposit, and other reasonable relocation costs up to the $45,000 cap. (ilga.gov)
  • Where can I find a DV advocate near me: Use the ILCADV map or call 877‑863‑6338 for a warm transfer. (ilcadv.org)

Data and trends: what to expect when you call

  • High call volume but real help: The statewide hotline handled 59,704 contacts in 2024. The top need was shelter; where none was open, advocates used hotel placements and transportation programs to bridge gaps. Expect safety planning and a search across multiple counties for space. (wbez.org, nprillinois.org)
  • Survivor safety and firearms: After a series of high‑profile homicides, Illinois strengthened firearm removal in 2025. Ask the court for firearm remedies and keep a copy of your order with you (and request a Hope Card). (wbez.org)

“If A doesn’t work, try B” — quick pivots

  • No shelter bed → Ask for hotel placement + Safe Rides to a neighboring county; request a callback if a bed opens. (nprillinois.org)
  • Landlord won’t cooperate → Send certified notice citing the Safe Homes Act; change locks yourself after 48 hours and give the key; seek legal aid. (law.justia.com)
  • Employer denies time off → Use statewide paid leave; if you need more, invoke VESSA; file an IDOL complaint if retaliation occurs. (labor.illinois.gov)
  • Police delayed on firearm removal → Return to court, note the 96‑hour requirement in the order, and ask for enforcement assistance. (wbez.org)

Tables you can screenshot

Orders of Protection at a glance

Remedy you can request Examples
No contact / stay‑away Home, school, daycare, work, childcare pickups
Exclusive possession Abuser moves out; you stay in the home
Temporary parenting time limits Safe exchanges, supervised visits
Support and costs Temporary support, reimbursement for losses
Firearms Surrender, search warrant, no FOID/CCL possession

Source: Illinois Domestic Violence Act forms. (illinoiscourts.gov)

Paid leave options

Location Paid leave you can use Notes
Illinois statewide 40 hours paid leave/year Any reason; accrues 1/40; use after 90 days. (labor.illinois.gov)
City of Chicago 40 hours paid leave + 40 hours paid sick/safe Accrues 1/35; sick/safe after 30 days; paid after 90 days. (chicago.gov)
Cook County (non‑Chicago) Paid leave 1/40 hours worked Aligns with state; file complaints with County Commission. (cookcountyil.gov)

TANF and SNAP quick numbers (families with children)

Program Family of 3 Family of 4
TANF max monthly grant $753 $910
SNAP max monthly benefit (FY 2025) $768 $975

Sources: IDHS WAG (TANF) and USDA FY 2025 COLA (SNAP). (dhs.state.il.us, fns.usda.gov)

Crime Victim Compensation highlights

Category What’s covered
Max award Up to $45,000 per claim (crimes on/after 08/07/2022)
Relocation 2 months’ rent + security deposit
Replacement services Up to $1,250/month
Locks/doors/windows Repair or replacement related to the crime

Source: Illinois AG Crime Victim Compensation and statute. (illinoisattorneygeneral.gov, ilga.gov)

Safe Homes Act (renters)

Right Timeframe/what to do
Emergency lock change Landlord must act in 48 hours after proper notice and proof; otherwise you can change locks and provide key
End lease early Give written notice and qualifying proof (police/court/advocate statement or order of protection)

Source: 765 ILCS 750/ (Safe Homes Act) and ILAO guide. (law.justia.com, illinoislegalaid.org)

Quick tips for safer tech use

  • Turn off location sharing on phones, car apps, and kids’ tablets.
  • Create new email, Apple ID/Google account, and cloud accounts not shared with the abuser.
  • Ask advocates about safety apps and tamper‑resistant phone settings.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Attorney General, Illinois Courts, USDA, HUD, IDOL, and established nonprofits (ILCADV, ILAO, The Network).

Our research approach: We rely on primary government sources and established statewide nonprofits; we cross‑check program amounts against official pages, link you directly to applications and forms, and time‑stamp policy changes. This article reflects statutes and agency guidance verified through September 2025 (see citations throughout), including FY 2025 SNAP amounts, 2025 Karina’s Bill enforcement timelines, and current TANF grant levels.

Questions or corrections: info@asinglemother.org

Disclaimer

Information only: This is not legal advice. Policies and amounts change quickly. Always verify details with the relevant agency or court before acting. We link directly to official sources to help you confirm current rules.

Safety online: If you think your device is being monitored, use a safe computer (library, friend, workplace) and clear your history. For emergencies call 911.

Site security: We monitor links and update when policies change or errors are reported. If you find an issue, email info@asinglemother.org—urgent corrections are prioritized within 24–48 hours.

Source highlights used in this guide

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