Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Help for Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: September 2025

---

⚠️ Emergency help first:

• If you or your baby are unsafe or in medical distress, call 911 now.
• For emotional support any time, call/text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can press 1 for Veterans, 2 for Spanish, or text “PRIDE” for LGBTQI+ support. See how 988 works and what to expect at the official Lifeline page. (988lifeline.org, fcc.gov)

---

Quick Help Box

• Need a pump right away: If you’re on Medicaid or eligible while pregnant in Illinois, ask your clinic to submit for a covered pump; Illinois Medicaid now allows one electric breast pump per year without prior approval. Call the All Kids Hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437 for help. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Pregnant and uninsured: Apply now for Moms & Babies (pregnancy Medicaid) at Apply for Benefits (ABE). You can also apply by phone at the DHS Help Line 1‑800‑843‑6154. Coverage can backdate up to three months before you apply. (abe.illinois.gov, hfs.illinois.gov)
• WIC for breastfeeding support and food: Call the Illinois WIC number 1‑800‑323‑4769 or use the IDHS Office Locator (choose WIC). WIC offers breastfeeding counseling, supplies, and may issue pumps based on need. (hfs.illinois.gov, dhs.state.il.us)
• Private insurance plan: By federal law, your plan must cover a pump and lactation support with no cost‑sharing. Start with your insurer’s member services and your OB/midwife for the prescription. (healthcare.gov)
• Denied or delayed coverage: Contact the Illinois Department of Insurance Consumer Assistance at 1‑866‑445‑5364 or the Office of Consumer Health Insurance at 1‑877‑527‑9431 for appeals help. (idoi.illinois.gov)

---

Why this guide is different

What we cover first: the fastest way to get a pump and care in Illinois. We include verified income limits, coverage rules, timelines, and the exact offices and phone numbers to call. We also add the Illinois‑specific changes many top results miss: the 2024 Medicaid pump rule and 2025 paid pumping breaks at work.

• Illinois Medicaid now covers one electric pump per year without prior approval: This change took effect for services on/after January 1, 2024, and applies to fee‑for‑service and managed care. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Illinois strengthened paid pumping breaks at work in 2025: State law now requires paid break time to express milk, in addition to the federal PUMP Act. Details below. (ilga.gov)

---

How to get a free breast pump in Illinois — Start here

1) If you are pregnant and your income is moderate or low: Apply for Moms & Babies (pregnancy Medicaid)

• What to do first: Apply at ABE.Illinois.gov or call the DHS Help Line 1‑800‑843‑6154. If you walk into a hospital/clinic that’s an MPE (Medicaid Presumptive Eligibility) provider, they can get you temporary same‑day outpatient coverage while your full Moms & Babies application is processed. (abe.illinois.gov, hfs.illinois.gov)
• What it covers: Prenatal visits, labs, ultrasounds, delivery, postpartum care for 12 months, prescriptions, dental, vision, mental health, transportation—and breast pumps under the medical equipment benefit. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Pump rule you can reference: “Electric Breast Pump Change in Benefit Frequency without Prior Approval — One per year” (provider notice). Share this with your clinic if staff aren’t aware yet. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Who qualifies (2025 income limits): Moms & Babies covers pregnant people up to 213% of the federal poverty level. Monthly limits below are from HFS. (hfs.illinois.gov)

• How to apply in person or get help: Use the IDHS Office Locator to find your nearest Family Community Resource Center or call the All Kids Hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437 for help. (dhs.state.il.us, hfs.illinois.gov)

Reality check: Clinics and health plans don’t always know the 2024 pump rule. Bring a copy or link to the HFS provider notice when asking for your pump. Delays are more common if paperwork is incomplete or if you’re out of network for the DME supplier.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the plan’s member services on your card; if unresolved, escalate through the All Kids Hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437 or file a complaint with the Department of Insurance if a managed‑care plan wrongly denies the benefit. Consumer Assistance: 1‑866‑445‑5364. (hfs.illinois.gov, idoi.illinois.gov)

---

2) If you have private insurance (job‑based or Marketplace): Use your no‑cost breastfeeding benefits

• What to do first: Ask your OB/midwife for a pump prescription; then call your insurer’s member line to confirm which pumps and DME suppliers are in network and when you can order (many allow at 28–32 weeks). (healthcare.gov)
• Your rights: Plans must cover lactation support, counseling, and equipment for the duration of breastfeeding with no copays or deductibles. Plans may set reasonable rules (manual vs. electric, rental vs. purchase) but should follow your clinician’s recommendation. (healthcare.gov, dol.gov)
• If they say no: Ask for the denial in writing and use your plan’s internal appeal. If still denied, file for an external review through the Illinois Department of Insurance; it’s free and must be filed within 4 months of the final denial. Consumer Help: 1‑866‑445‑5364; OCHI: 1‑877‑527‑9431. (idoi.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use WIC if eligible (below), or ask your hospital lactation team about short‑term pump rental while you appeal.

---

3) If you qualify for WIC: Get breastfeeding counseling, supplies, and sometimes a pump

• What to do first: Call Illinois WIC 1‑800‑323‑4769 or use the IDHS Office Locator (select WIC) to book an intake. WIC offers peer counselors and can issue breastfeeding equipment/education; Illinois’ WIC coding shows an “Individual Breast Pump” service for participants when clinically appropriate. (hfs.illinois.gov, dhs.state.il.us)
• Who qualifies (WIC income limits July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026): 185% of FPL. Official monthly limits below. (federalregister.gov)

• Monthly fruits/vegetables benefit (CVB): For FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025), the amounts are children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)

Reality check: WIC pumps are issued based on clinical need and pump availability; timing can vary by clinic. Be clear about your work/school schedule and whether you need a personal pump or a short‑term hospital‑grade loaner.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your OB/midwife for a written recommendation that an electric pump is medically appropriate; combine that with Medicaid or private‑plan coverage if you have it.

---

Coverage and benefit comparison (quick view)

---

Step‑by‑step: Ordering your pump through Illinois Medicaid

• Ask your provider for the prescription and DME referral: Share the HFS rule allowing one electric pump per year without prior approval so staff code it correctly. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Confirm your plan’s DME supplier: If you’re in a managed care plan, use the plan’s provider directory or call member services on your card. If you’re fee‑for‑service (Medical Card only), ask the clinic which enrolled DME they use.
• Track the order: If you don’t get a call within a week, call your plan or the DME to check status. Keep your case/claim number handy.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the All Kids Hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437 for help navigating coverage or changing providers; escalate denials to the Department of Insurance if your managed care plan won’t comply. (hfs.illinois.gov, idoi.illinois.gov)

---

Workplace pumping rights you can actually use

• Federal baseline—PUMP Act: Most workers are entitled to reasonable break time and a private, non‑bathroom space to pump for one year after birth. If you’re not fully relieved of work during the break, that time must be paid. (dol.gov)
• Illinois law—stronger protection in 2025: Illinois’ Nursing Mothers in the Workplace Act now requires paid break time to express milk and bars employers from deducting pay or forcing you to use PTO, unless providing breaks would cause undue hardship. Bring this citation to HR if needed. (ilga.gov)
• Chicago workers—extra local rights: Chicago also guarantees paid leave and paid sick time citywide (five days + five days each year). For help or to file a complaint, use 311 or call (312) 744‑2211. (chicago.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Division or the Illinois Department of Labor; you can also get help from IDHR if the issue involves pregnancy accommodation discrimination. (dol.gov, labor.illinois.gov, dhr.illinois.gov)

---

Money and eligibility tables you can use today

WIC income limits (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026)

WIC fruit/vegetable monthly benefit (FY 2025)

Moms & Babies (pregnancy Medicaid) practical income limits (213% FPL, 2025)

Pump coverage—what the rules actually say

Work leave you can actually use while pregnant/postpartum

---

Real‑world example

Example: Tasha, a single mom in Peoria, applied to Moms & Babies online at ABE in her second trimester. Her clinic submitted a DME order citing the 2024 HFS pump rule, and she received a double‑electric pump before returning to work. She also enrolled in WIC and receives $47 monthly for fruits/vegetables plus lactation counseling. Back at work, she uses paid pumping breaks under Illinois law and her employer provided a private room after she shared the state statute. (hfs.illinois.gov, fns.usda.gov, ilga.gov)

---

Application checklist

• Proof of pregnancy: Ultrasound, pregnancy verification, or provider letter.
• ID and Illinois address: Driver’s license/state ID, recent mail, or lease.
• Proof of income: Recent pay stubs or letter of unemployment; if none, you can still apply and explain.
• Insurance info (if any): Policy ID card or denial letter.
• Provider details: OB/midwife name, clinic fax/phone for DME orders.
• Contact numbers saved in your phone: All Kids 1‑866‑255‑5437, DHS Help Line 1‑800‑843‑6154, WIC 1‑800‑323‑4769, IDOI Consumer line 1‑866‑445‑5364. (hfs.illinois.gov, abe.illinois.gov, idoi.illinois.gov)

---

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long to apply: Medicaid can backdate up to three months, but you risk delays getting a pump if you wait until delivery. Apply once you confirm pregnancy. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Using out‑of‑network DME: Plans often require in‑network suppliers. Confirm before ordering to avoid bills. (healthcare.gov)
• Not mentioning work/school needs: Tell WIC or your provider if you’ll be away from baby to help justify an electric pump.
• Assuming breaks are unpaid: In Illinois, pumping breaks must now be paid (with limited hardship exceptions). Bring the statute. (ilga.gov)
• Giving up after a verbal denial: Always request a written denial and use appeals. External review is free in Illinois and has a 4‑month deadline. (idoi.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the All Kids Hotline 1‑866‑255‑5437 for Medicaid navigation; for private plans, call IDOI Consumer Assistance 1‑866‑445‑5364 or OCHI 1‑877‑527‑9431. (hfs.illinois.gov, idoi.illinois.gov)

---

FAQs — Illinois‑specific

• Q: When can I order my pump through insurance:
  A: Many plans allow orders around 28–32 weeks with a prescription. Some only ship after baby arrives; ask your plan’s DME policy. (healthcare.gov)
• Q: Does Moms & Babies cover me after birth:
  A: Yes—postpartum coverage for 12 months after delivery. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Q: Can Illinois Medicaid cover a second pump if mine breaks:
  A: The rule allows one electric pump per year without prior approval; a second within the same year needs prior approval. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Q: I’m undocumented—can I use Moms & Babies:
  A: Yes—Moms & Babies is available regardless of citizenship/immigration status. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Q: What are WIC’s current fruit/vegetable amounts:
  A: Children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 per month in FY 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• Q: How do I find my local office without more Googling:
  A: Use the IDHS Office Locator or call “Help is Here” 1‑833‑2‑FIND‑HELP. (dhs.state.il.us)
• Q: What if my employer won’t let me pump or docks my pay:
  A: Federal law (PUMP Act) and Illinois law protect your breaks and pay. You can file a complaint with DOL or IDOL. (dol.gov, ilga.gov)
• Q: Can WIC give me a hospital‑grade pump:
  A: WIC may issue hospital‑grade loaners in specific situations (for example, NICU separation or establishing supply). Availability varies by clinic; discuss your situation at your WIC appointment. Program codes include “WIC INDIVIDUAL BREAST PUMP,” indicating equipment support exists. (dhs.state.il.us)
• Q: Do I get a Special Enrollment Period if I need different insurance:
  A: After you have a baby, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period on the Marketplace; use it if you don’t have Medicaid. (hhs.gov)
• Q: Where can I get free breastfeeding help outside clinic hours:
  A: Try La Leche League USA’s leader locator and warmline 1‑877‑452‑5324 for peer support. (lllusa.org, lllofmenh.org)

---

Diverse communities — targeted tips and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many Illinois WIC clinics and hospital lactation programs already support chest/breastfeeding for trans and non‑binary parents; ask for a peer counselor. For crisis support, you can text “PRIDE” to 988 for an LGBTQI+‑affirming counselor. (fcc.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: When applying via ABE or at an office, request reasonable accommodations and language access if needed. ABE and DHS provide auxiliary aids and alternate formats at no cost. (abe.illinois.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: If you’re a Veteran using civilian coverage, you still have full access to the PUMP Act and state pumping rights at work; you can also press 1 after calling 988 for the Veterans Crisis Line if you need support. Combine VA care with WIC if eligible. (988lifeline.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Moms & Babies covers you regardless of immigration status; WIC has no immigration requirement. Use interpreter services—ask when you call. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Tribal citizens: If you receive care via IHS/Tribal programs, you can still use WIC, Moms & Babies, and private‑plan benefits in Illinois; check with your local clinic for coordination. (Chicago’s LLL groups and hospital lactation teams are open to all.) (lllusa.org)
• Rural moms with limited access: Ask about tele‑lactation visits covered by Medicaid or your plan, and request a pump to be shipped. WIC peer counselors can often text or call between visits. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Single fathers: If you are the caregiver of an infant, you can apply for WIC for baby’s benefits and feeding support. Use the WIC locator or call 1‑800‑323‑4769. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Language access: ABE and DHS provide free language services and TTY/relay. TTY lines: DHS 1‑800‑447‑6404; WIC TTY 1‑866‑295‑6817. (abe.illinois.gov, hfs.illinois.gov)

---

Local and statewide organizations that actually help

• Illinois WIC: Call 1‑800‑323‑4769 or find a clinic via the IDHS Office Locator (WIC). (dhs.state.il.us)
• All Kids Hotline (Medicaid/Moms & Babies help): 1‑866‑255‑5437. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Illinois Department of Insurance Consumer Assistance: 1‑866‑445‑5364; external review info on the IDOI site. (idoi.illinois.gov)
• La Leche League USA: Find local support or call 1‑877‑452‑5324 (warmline). (lllusa.org, lllofmenh.org)
• Illinois Women’s Health Line (breast/cervical screening & treatment): 1‑888‑522‑1282 (TTY 1‑800‑547‑0466) — For free mammograms and related care if uninsured/underinsured. (dph.illinois.gov)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

---

Practical timelines

• Apply to Moms & Babies: Do it as soon as you confirm pregnancy; coverage may backdate up to 3 months to cover earlier bills. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Order your pump (Medicaid): Once your provider okays pumping and you’re enrolled; use the “one per year without prior approval” rule for speed. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Order your pump (private insurance): Many plans allow orders at 28–32 weeks; check your plan and DME list. (healthcare.gov)
• Use paid leave (state law): Illinois paid leave accrued under PLAWA is usable after 90 days of employment (or earlier if your employer frontloads). (labor.illinois.gov)

---

If your baby is hospitalized or you’re separated

• Ask for a hospital‑grade pump immediately from the hospital lactation team. If you’re on WIC, ask about a hospital‑grade loaner and pair it with Medicaid coverage for a personal electric pump to take home. (hfs.illinois.gov, dhs.state.il.us)
• Get lactation visits covered: Illinois Medicaid covers lactation consultant services statewide (IBCLC/CLC/CLS), including group education, through infant weaning. Share the HFS press release or provider notice if a clinic is unsure. (hfs.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your plan’s member line and reference the lactation consultant coverage notice; ask the hospital social worker to help escalate.

---

Extra health help while you’re pregnant/postpartum

• IBCCP (free breast/cervical cancer screening and treatment link): If you’re uninsured/underinsured, call the Women’s Health Line 1‑888‑522‑1282 for a screening appointment anywhere in Illinois. (dph.illinois.gov)
• Nutrition support (WIC): Beyond the CVB amounts, WIC will tailor packages during pregnancy and breastfeeding; ask the dietitian about whole‑grain choices and infant food options under the 2024–2026 updates. (fns.usda.gov)

---

About paid time off while pregnant or after birth in Illinois

• Statewide paid leave: Earn up to 40 hours per year you can use for prenatal visits, recovery days, or pumping logistics. Employers cannot require you to explain the reason. (labor.illinois.gov)
• Chicago workers: You may get an additional five days paid leave plus five days paid sick time every year. Check your pay stub notice or the city’s FAQ and call (312) 744‑2211 with questions. (chicago.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team:
This guide uses official sources from Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, Illinois Department of Insurance, USDA, U.S. Department of Labor, and established nonprofits like La Leche League USA.

Editorial standards: We follow our Editorial Standards with primary sources, tested links, and rapid correction when policies change.

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

Corrections: If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48–72 hours.

---

Disclaimer

Program details change: Always verify the latest eligibility, amounts, and forms with the relevant agency before you apply or purchase anything. We link to official pages and phone numbers so you can confirm directly.

Health information: This guide is informational only and not medical or legal advice. For medical concerns, talk to your clinician or call your health plan’s nurse line. To keep our website secure, never email sensitive personal or health information; use official government portals (like ABE) or call verified agency numbers.

---

Sources (selected)

• Illinois Moms & Babies program—coverage and income limits: HFS Moms & Babies page. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Medicaid pump coverage rule (effective 1/1/2024): HFS Provider Notice, “Electric Breast Pump Change in Benefit Frequency without Prior Approval.” (hfs.illinois.gov)
• Lactation consultant and doula coverage in Illinois Medicaid: HFS press release and provider guidance. (hfs.illinois.gov)
• WIC 2025–26 income limits: USDA FNS Federal Register notice. (federalregister.gov)
• WIC FY 2025 CVB amounts: FNS policy memo on FY 2025 CVV/B amounts. (fns.usda.gov)
• Private plan breastfeeding benefits: Healthcare.gov breastfeeding benefits; DOL preventive services FAQs. (healthcare.gov, dol.gov)
• Workplace pumping rights: U.S. DOL Fact Sheet #73 (PUMP Act); Illinois Nursing Mothers in the Workplace Act update. (dol.gov, ilga.gov)
• Chicago paid leave: City of Chicago resources and press materials. (chicago.gov)
• All Kids/ABE helplines and office locator: HFS and IDHS official pages. (hfs.illinois.gov, abe.illinois.gov, dhs.state.il.us)
• La Leche League USA: Leader locator and warmline. (lllusa.org, lllofmenh.org)
• IBCCP screening and Women’s Health Line: IDPH IBCCP page. (dph.illinois.gov)

---

Final reality check

Most important takeaway: If you’re pregnant in Illinois, apply to Moms & Babies immediately and ask your clinic to order your pump citing the one‑per‑year rule; pair that with WIC for counseling and monthly fruits/vegetables. If your private plan stalls, use the Illinois external review process. Keep the hotlines in your phone so you’re not stuck hunting for them later. (hfs.illinois.gov, fns.usda.gov, idoi.illinois.gov)

---

🏛️More Illinois Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Illinois

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery