Job Training for Single Mothers in Illinois
Illinois Job Training for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single moms in Illinois who need practical, step‑by‑step ways to pay for training, get skills fast, line up childcare and transportation, and move into a better‑paying job. Everything here links directly to official sources so you can act today.
Quick Help Box
- Start here: Find your nearest Illinois workNet/American Job Center and ask about WIOA job training, vouchers, and supportive services. Use the Illinois workNet Service Finder and filter by your ZIP code. Find a local Illinois workNet/AJC (official locator). (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Need training money this month? Ask about WIOA Individual Training Accounts (ITA) and On‑the‑Job Training (OJT). ITAs can cover tuition, books, tests; OJT can reimburse employers 50–75% of your wages while you learn on the job. WIOA training overview and OJT policy. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Childcare while you train: Illinois CCAP can pay most of your childcare costs if your income is within limits and you’re in work, education, or training. Illinois CCAP overview and online application info. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)
- Transportation help for SNAP recipients in training: You can get mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate and other required costs covered under SNAP E&T. [Illinois SNAP E&T supportive services rules] and [IRS mileage rate (2025 = 70¢/mile)]. (ilga.gov, irs.gov)
- No diploma yet? You can finish for less: GED in Illinois is 36persubject(36 per subject (144 total), but ICCB’s ILSAVE26 code cuts 26persubject(youpaya26 per subject (you pay a 10 center fee). HiSET is 23persubject(23 per subject (115 total in person). ICCB HSE costs and discounts and ICCB “Free GED in IL” promo details. (iccb.org)
- Apprenticeships (paid training) and pre‑apprenticeships: See current programs statewide and the Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship network (tuition‑free with stipend and supports). [Apprenticeship Illinois] and [Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship]. (illinoisworknet.com, dceo.illinois.gov)
- On unemployment and want to train? Talk to IDES before enrolling so you don’t risk your benefits. Call the IDES Claimant Service Center at 800‑244‑5631 (TTY 866‑488‑4016). [IDES contact info via Illinois workNet]. (illinoisworknet.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan and act)
| What you need | Best first step | Key numbers (2025) | Where to apply / check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Training money (tuition, books, exams) | Ask about WIOA Individual Training Accounts (ITA) at your local Illinois workNet/AJC | Local caps vary; DuPage County caps at up to $10,000 per eligible person | Find a local workNet/AJC • DuPage example: workNet DuPage grants up to $10,000 (apps.illinoisworknet.com, worknetdupage.org) |
| Paid training at a job | Ask for OJT (On‑the‑Job Training) | Employer wage reimbursement usually 50%, can go up to 75% in some cases | Illinois OJT policy and rates (apps.illinoisworknet.com) |
| Childcare while you’re in school or training | Apply for CCAP | Initial eligibility roughly up to 225% FPL (see monthly limits table below); co‑pays set by income | CCAP overview & digital application info • Copay tables (IL444‑3455B) (illinoiscaresforkids.org, dhs.state.il.us) |
| Transportation for SNAP recipients in training | Enroll in SNAP E&T with an IDHS provider | Reimbursed at IRS mileage rate ($0.70/mile in 2025) + required fees, books, exams | [SNAP E&T supportive services rule] • [IRS mileage rate 2025] (ilga.gov, irs.gov) |
| Finish high school | GED/HiSET | GED 36/subject∗∗(usecodeILSAVE26→pay∗∗36/subject** (use code ILSAVE26 → pay **10 center fee/subject); HiSET $23/subject | ICCB HSE costs & promo • “Free GED in IL” promo (iccb.org) |
| Paid apprenticeships | Explore Apprenticeship Illinois; apply to Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship to get in the door | ~20,965 active apprentices, 455 programs statewide; Pre‑Apprenticeship is tuition‑free with stipend | Apprenticeship Illinois • Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship (illinoisworknet.com, dceo.illinois.gov) |
| College financial aid for short certificates or degrees | File FAFSA; ask school about MAP | 2024‑25 MAP max 8,400∗∗;2025‑26effectivemax∗∗8,400**; 2025‑26 effective max **8,064 | [ISAC 2024‑25 MAP formula] • [ISAC 2025‑26 update] (isac.org) |
| State minimum wage for planning a budget | Check Illinois rate | 15.00/hour∗∗(adults18+);∗∗15.00/hour** (adults 18+); **9.00 tipped; $13.00 youth (<18, <650 hrs/yr) | Illinois DOL Minimum Wage law (labor.illinois.gov) |
What this guide adds beyond the top search results
- Clear dollar amounts you can use today (training vouchers, childcare income limits, mileage rates, test fees).
- Direct links to official application pages and office locators.
- State‑specific timelines, checklists, and common mistakes to avoid.
- Plan‑B options if a program is waitlisted or says no.
We reviewed the top search results for “Illinois Job Training for Single Mothers” and found they often lacked current figures, phone numbers, or application steps. This guide fixes that with verified 2025 data and official links.
How Illinois’ job training system works (fast overview)
- Illinois delivers most publicly funded training through Illinois workNet/American Job Centers under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). You work with a career planner, choose a program from the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL), and, if approved, the center issues an Individual Training Account (ITA) to pay the school for your tuition/fees/books/tests. Search WIOA‑approved training programs on Illinois workNet. (illinoisworknet.com)
- WIOA prioritizes single parents and low‑income adults for training funds. “Single parents (including single pregnant women)” are listed under federally recognized barriers to employment, which helps with priority. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Besides classroom training, work‑based options like On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) pay your new employer back a share of your wages while you learn the job—usually 50%, up to 75% in some cases. (apps.illinoisworknet.com, illinoisworknet.com)
WIOA Adult & Dislocated Worker Training (your main door to free training)
First action to take
- Contact your local Illinois workNet/American Job Center and ask for a WIOA eligibility/Orientation appointment. Find your nearest center. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
Who generally qualifies
- Adults 18+, with priority for low‑income, basic‑skills‑deficient, public‑assistance recipients (SNAP/TANF), and single parents. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- “Low‑income” is typically measured against 70% of the Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL) or by participation in public benefits. Illinois issued updated 70% LLSIL amounts effective May 19, 2025. Example (Chicago MSA & many LWIAs): Family of 3 = 27,700∗∗;4=∗∗27,700**; 4 = **34,198; 5 = 40,360∗∗;6=∗∗40,360**; 6 = **47,202. If your household income is at or below these amounts—or you receive SNAP/TANF—you’re usually in the priority group. (workforceboard.zendesk.com)
Table: 70% LLSIL (WIOA low‑income threshold) – Effective May 19, 2025
| Family size | LWIAs 1,2,5,6,7,10 (incl. Chicago MSA) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 |
| 2 | $21,150 |
| 3 | $27,700 |
| 4 | $34,198 |
| 5 | $40,360 |
| 6 | $47,202 |
Source: Illinois DCEO WIOA Notice 24‑NOT‑03 (May 19, 2025). (workforceboard.zendesk.com)
What WIOA can pay for
- Tuition and fees, books, tools, uniforms, testing and medical checks required by the program, per state policy. (illinoisworknet.com)
- Local caps vary. Example: DuPage County’s workNet DuPage offers grants up to $10,000 per eligible individual. Check your local area for its cap. (worknetdupage.org)
Work‑based training (earn while you learn)
- On‑the‑Job Training (OJT): Employer trains you, and the program reimburses the employer typically 50% of your wages, up to 75% for smaller employers/priority populations when allowed. Training periods can run up to six months. Ask the center to evaluate OJT for roles you’re interested in. (apps.illinoisworknet.com, worknetdupage.org)
How to apply (fast steps)
- Book an orientation at your nearest Illinois workNet/AJC.
- Bring proof of identity, residency, household income (or SNAP/TANF case), layoff notice if dislocated, and current resume. The center will confirm eligibility and help you pick a program from the ETPL. (illinoisworknet.com)
Real‑world example
- A single mom in Lisle wants a CompTIA IT certificate. Her career planner confirms she’s in the priority group (family of 3 with income under 27,700∗∗).She’sapprovedforanITAthatcoverstuition,books,andexamfees;theprogram’stotalcostis∗∗27,700**). She’s approved for an ITA that covers tuition, books, and exam fees; the program’s total cost is **7,800—under DuPage’s **10,000∗∗cap—soshepays10,000** cap—so she pays 0 out of pocket. (workforceboard.zendesk.com, worknetdupage.org)
Reality checks
- Timelines: Eligibility + training approval often takes a few appointments; expect 2–6 weeks depending on your documents and program start dates. Cohort‑based programs may have set start dates.
- Funds are not guaranteed—priority groups help, but budgets and timing matter.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting classes and paying yourself before your WIOA approval—programs can’t reimburse retroactively.
- Picking a program that’s not on the WIOA Eligible Training Provider List.
- Not asking about supportive services (testing fees, uniforms, immunizations)—they’re often covered. (illinoisworknet.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about OJT for a job offer you already have or an employer willing to hire you with training.
- Look at tuition‑free pre‑apprenticeships (Illinois Works) or free community programs (below), and combine with CCAP + SNAP E&T for support. (dceo.illinois.gov)
SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) – extra funding for training and work costs
First action to take
- If you receive SNAP, ask to be referred to a local SNAP E&T provider through IDHS or your Illinois workNet center. It’s voluntary in Illinois and open “to the extent resources are available.” (ilga.gov)
What SNAP E&T can pay for
- Transportation to required E&T activities (reimbursed at the IRS mileage rate when you drive—$0.70/mile in 2025), mandatory school/testing fees (including GED), books/supplies, and required physicals. Initial employment expenses (e.g., tools, license fees, some auto costs, child care) may also be covered within rules. (ilga.gov)
- Federal guidance requires states to reimburse reasonable and necessary costs for participants. (fns.usda.gov)
Where to connect
- Ask at your local Illinois workNet/AJC or IDHS Family & Community Resource Center (FCRC). IDHS Help Line 800‑843‑6154 (TTY 866‑324‑5553). (dhs.state.il.us)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not keeping receipts and mileage logs—payments are reimbursements.
- Dropping SNAP mid‑program—E&T supports require you to be on SNAP each month you receive services. (ilga.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If E&T slots are full, ask your AJC about WIOA supportive services or OJT, and apply for CCAP for childcare plus local transit discounts or employer commuter benefits (see transit section). (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
Apprenticeships and Pre‑Apprenticeships (paid pathways)
First action to take
- Browse openings on Apprenticeship Illinois; if you’re new to the trades, apply to Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship near you (tuition‑free, with a stipend and supports). (illinoisworknet.com, dceo.illinois.gov)
Why this helps single moms
- You’re paid while you learn, build experience, and earn a recognized credential. Illinois currently shows about 20,965 active apprentices, 455 programs, and ~1,700 employers statewide. (illinoisworknet.com)
- Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship specifically funds community providers to recruit women and under‑represented groups; participants attend tuition‑free and can receive a stipend and support services. Recent grants expanded programs statewide. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Bonus for employers (can help you get hired)
- Illinois offers an Apprenticeship Education Expense Tax Credit of up to 3,500∗∗perapprentice(plus∗∗3,500** per apprentice (plus **1,500 if the apprentice or employer is in an underserved area). You can mention this when interviewing with small firms—they may be more willing to hire if they know about the credit. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping required aptitude tests or application windows for union trades; follow each Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) checklist exactly.
- Not asking about child care or transportation help during pre‑apprenticeship—many providers offer it or can refer you.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you don’t get in the first time, reapply next cycle and strengthen math/reading via free Adult Education (below). Ask your AJC to consider OJT with a related employer while you wait. (illinoisworknet.com)
Child Care While You Train: Illinois CCAP
First action to take
- Use the Illinois Cares for Kids CCAP page to check eligibility, contact your local CCR&R agency, and start the application. Some counties now allow a digital application. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)
Who qualifies (income & activity)
- You must be working or in approved education/training (includes ESL, HSE/GED, vocational training, and 2‑ and 4‑year degree programs), have a child under 13, and meet income limits. Initial eligibility is set against the Federal Poverty Level; in practice Illinois uses a chart indexed annually. Recent materials show initial eligibility around 225% FPL, with redeterminations around 275% FPL and a hard cap at 85% State Median Income. (dhs.state.il.us)
Table: CCAP monthly income limits (examples – initial eligibility)
| Family size | Max gross monthly income (initial) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,698 |
| 3 | $4,661 |
| 4 | $5,625 |
| 5 | $6,589 |
| 6 | $7,553 |
Source: Illinois Admin Code 89 §50.230 (effective 11/28/2024). (casetext.com)
- Co‑pays are set by income and family size; see the official copay charts (IL444‑3455B). (dhs.state.il.us)
Tips
- If you’re homeless or unstably housed, submit the “Temporary Living Arrangement” certification with your application—this can speed approval while you meet other documentation needs. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying without proof of your training or class schedule—CCAP requires an eligible “activity” (work or school/training). As of July 1, 2024, the temporary “initial activity search” grace period ended. (dhs.state.il.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your AJC if WIOA or SNAP E&T can cover short‑term child‑related costs tied to training (like mandatory fees or a temporary care gap) while you fix CCAP paperwork. (ilga.gov)
Finish High School Equivalency (GED/HiSET) fast—and cheap
First action to take
- Decide GED (4 tests) or HiSET (5 tests), then register online and use the Illinois discount codes.
Current Illinois costs (2025)
- GED: 36persubject∗∗(4subjects=∗∗36 per subject** (4 subjects = **144). Use promo code ILSAVE26 to cut 26∗∗persubject—atatestcenteryou’llpaythe∗∗26** per subject—at a test center you’ll pay the **10 local center fee per subject. One retake per failed module may be free of GED’s $26 fee (center fee may still apply). (iccb.org)
- HiSET (in person): 23∗∗persubject(∗∗23** per subject (**115 total). Two retakes per failed subject without the ETS test fee (center fee may apply). (iccb.org, hiset.org)
Where to get free prep
- Local adult education programs are free; use the ICCB directory on the HSE pages. (iccb.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the GED Ready/HiSET practice tests—most programs require certain scores to issue vouchers or scholarships.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your SNAP E&T provider or AJC if they can cover test fees, books, or transit while you study. (ilga.gov)
Paying for short‑term certificates or a degree: Pell + MAP (Illinois grant)
First action to take
- File the FAFSA as soon as possible; then ask your college financial‑aid office about the Illinois MAP Grant.
Numbers you can use
- For 2024‑25, the MAP maximum annual award is 8,400∗∗(tuition/mandatoryfeesonly).Duetofunding/volume,ISACkept2025‑26awardsatpriorlevelswitha48,400** (tuition/mandatory fees only). Due to funding/volume, ISAC kept 2025‑26 awards at prior levels with a 4% reduction factor, making the effective maximum **8,064 for 2025‑26. Awards depend on enrollment hours and school costs. (isac.org)
Tips
- Pair MAP with WIOA ITA funds. Schools can stack these to reduce your out‑of‑pocket to $0 for many short certificate programs.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to file—MAP can suspend new awards mid‑year when funds run low.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your AJC about OJT or incumbent worker training if you’re already employed; also check city/county programs (e.g., Chicago’s Workforce Solutions) for employer‑led training reimbursements up to 75% of training costs. (chicago.gov)
Unemployment benefits and training (don’t risk an overpayment)
- If you’re receiving unemployment and want to enter training, talk to IDES first about whether your program can be treated as approved training to relax work‑search requirements. Use the IDES Claimant Service Center at 800‑244‑5631 (TTY 866‑488‑4016). Also ask your AJC to coordinate WIOA funding so tuition is covered. (illinoisworknet.com)
- You can also search IDES‑fed training listings via Illinois workNet/Career Information System. (illinoisworknet.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your chosen school doesn’t meet IDES approved training criteria, look for a similar program on the WIOA ETPL or ask about OJT. (illinoisworknet.com)
Transit & commuter help (every dollar matters)
- Ventra Transit Benefits let you set aside pre‑tax dollars (up to the federal limit) for CTA/Pace/Metra fares; larger employers in the RTA region are required to offer a pre‑tax transit benefit under the state Transit Benefits Program Act. Ask HR to enroll you. (ventrachicago.com)
- If you face re‑entry or other barriers to work, the CTA Second Chance Program offers temporary full‑time paid positions ($16.67/hour, up to 40 hrs/week) plus free transit during the program. Hotline: 312‑681‑2293. (Enrollment periods vary; referrals via partner agencies like Cara Collective and Safer Foundation.) (transitchicago.com)
Common Mistakes to Avoid (seen often)
- Assuming childcare isn’t covered during school—CCAP does cover approved education/training.
- Picking a program that’s not on the WIOA ETPL—no ITA funds if it’s not on the list. (illinoisworknet.com)
- Waiting until tuition is due—WIOA cannot reimburse you for classes you already paid for.
- Not asking about OJT—if you have a job offer, OJT can make the hire more likely by reimbursing wages. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Not logging mileage/receipts—SNAP E&T reimbursements require documentation. (ilga.gov)
Application Checklist (print or screenshot)
- Photo ID and proof of Illinois address.
- Proof of household income (last 6 months) or benefits (SNAP/TANF/SSI).
- Child birth certificates (for CCAP), class schedule or training plan.
- Resume and job postings showing your target occupation is in demand.
- For unemployment recipients: your IDES claim info and contact center number 800‑244‑5631. (illinoisworknet.com)
Diverse Communities: tailored routes and supports
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your AJC about inclusive training providers; Illinois Works and many pre‑apprenticeships emphasize equity and welcome women and LGBTQ+ candidates. Look for providers like Chicago Women in Trades and community colleges with Pride resource centers. (dceo.illinois.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or moms of disabled children: Ask the Illinois Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) about training and job supports coordinated with your AJC; apprenticeships and WIOA services are available with accommodations. Contact via IDHS. (illinoisworknet.com)
- Veteran single mothers: In addition to WIOA priority, check VA Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E, Chapter 31) for tuition, supplies, and a subsistence allowance while in training. Pair with CCAP for child care. (Confirm current rates with VA.)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Illinois SNAP E&T and WIOA serve eligible immigrants; Adult Education offers free ESL + career bridge classes statewide. Use Illinois workNet Service Finder and filter by ESL/Adult Ed. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Tribal‑specific resources: WIOA Section 166 Indian and Native American programs serve eligible Native residents; connect through your AJC and local Native organizations.
- Rural single moms: Many centers offer virtual appointments; OJT is strong in smaller communities. Use the locator radius (25–50 miles) to find the closest AJC and Adult Ed provider. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral—apply the same way. “Single parent” priority under WIOA includes single fathers. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Language access: AJCs and IDHS provide bilingual services and interpreter lines; ask when you book your appointment. Use the Service Finder to filter for Spanish and other languages. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
Local organizations worth knowing (examples)
- Cara Collective (employment readiness; also a CTA Second Chance referral partner). 312‑798‑3300. (transitchicago.com)
- Safer Foundation (re‑entry training and placement). 872‑999‑2560 x2526. (transitchicago.com)
- workNet DuPage (DuPage County; WIOA grants up to $10,000 and OJT/Incumbent Worker programs). 630‑955‑2030. (worknetdupage.org)
- Your nearest Illinois workNet/AJC: use the statewide locator and call the center listed for your ZIP code. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
Program Tables You Can Use
Table: “At‑a‑Glance” programs for single moms
| Program | What it pays | Typical $ amounts | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| WIOA ITA (classroom training) | Tuition, fees, books, tests | Local caps vary; example DuPage up to $10,000 | Find an AJC (worknetdupage.org, apps.illinoisworknet.com) |
| WIOA OJT (paid job training) | Reimburses employer for your wages | 50%—up to 75% in some cases | Ask AJC career planner (OJT policy) (apps.illinoisworknet.com) |
| CCAP Child Care | Child care while working or in school | See monthly income limits; sliding copay | CCAP info (illinoiscaresforkids.org) |
| SNAP E&T | Mileage, fees, books, exams | $0.70/mile (IRS 2025) + required costs | Ask IDHS/your AJC (SNAP E&T) (ilga.gov, irs.gov) |
| GED/HiSET | Test fees reduced | GED 36∗∗/subject;ILSAVE26→∗∗36**/subject; ILSAVE26 → **10 center fee; HiSET $23/subject | ICCB HSE (iccb.org) |
| Apprenticeship | Paid job + classes | Wages set by trade; statewide ~20,965 apprentices | Apprenticeship Illinois (illinoisworknet.com) |
Table: CCAP monthly income limits (initial eligibility)
| Family size | Max monthly income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $3,698 |
| 3 | $4,661 |
| 4 | $5,625 |
| 5 | $6,589 |
| 6 | $7,553 |
Source: Illinois Admin Code 89 §50.230 (11/28/2024). (casetext.com)
Table: GED/HiSET costs in Illinois (2025)
| Test | Per subject | Total | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GED | $36 | $144 | Use code ILSAVE26 to reduce by 26/subject;pay26/subject; pay 10 test‑center fee per subject at a center; one discounted retake per failed module may apply. (iccb.org) |
| HiSET (in person) | $23 | $115 | Two ETS‑fee‑free retakes per subject; center fee may apply. (hiset.org) |
Table: WIOA OJT wage reimbursement (typical)
| Employer size / policy | Reimbursement share |
|---|---|
| Standard | 50% of trainee wages during OJT |
| Small/priority situations (local policy/waiver) | Up to 75% |
Source: Illinois OJT policy resources. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
Table: MAP Grant amounts
| Year | Max annual award |
|---|---|
| 2024‑25 | $8,400 |
| 2025‑26 (effective max due to reduction factor) | $8,064 |
Sources: ISAC 2024‑25 formula; ISAC 2025‑26 update. (isac.org)
Regional resources and how to contact offices fast
- Statewide Illinois workNet/AJC locator (all regions): Use your ZIP and filter by “WIOA services” or “Adult Education.” Illinois workNet Service Finder. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Chicago & Cook County: Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership (network of AJCs and training). Use “Find a Center” on their homepage. Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership. (chicookworks.org)
- DuPage County: workNet DuPage (grants up to $10,000). Call 630‑955‑2030. (worknetdupage.org)
- IDHS Help Line (benefits, CCAP, SNAP): 800‑843‑6154 (TTY 866‑324‑5553). (dhs.state.il.us)
- IDES (unemployment): 800‑244‑5631 (TTY 866‑488‑4016). (illinoisworknet.com)
10 Illinois‑specific FAQs
- Can WIOA help with tuition if I already started school?
- Usually no. ITAs don’t reimburse past payments. Apply and get approved before you start or pay. (illinoisworknet.com)
- I receive SNAP. Will SNAP E&T pay for my gas?
- Yes, mileage to approved E&T activities can be reimbursed at the IRS rate ($0.70/mile in 2025) when you drive yourself. Keep logs/receipts. (ilga.gov, irs.gov)
- I need childcare for night classes. Is that eligible under CCAP?
- CCAP can cover part‑time or full‑time care including non‑traditional hours if your provider offers them and your activity is approved. Use CCAP and your local CCR&R to find providers. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)
- What are the income limits for CCAP for a family of 3?
- Initial eligibility example shows about $4,661/month gross; redetermination and phase‑out tiers exist. See the official monthly charts and copay table. (casetext.com, dhs.state.il.us)
- How much training money can I get?
- Local WIOA caps vary by workforce area and program. One example is DuPage County at up to $10,000; your local area may differ. Ask your AJC. (worknetdupage.org)
- What if I have a job offer but lack one certification?
- Ask for OJT. Employers can be reimbursed 50–75% of your wages during training, which often makes them more willing to hire. (apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Can I get into a union trade as a beginner?
- Yes. Apply to Illinois Works Pre‑Apprenticeship (tuition‑free with stipend/supports) to prepare for a registered apprenticeship. (dceo.illinois.gov)
- I’m on unemployment—can I go to school?
- Possibly, but talk to IDES first about approved training to protect your claim. Call 800‑244‑5631 (TTY 866‑488‑4016). (illinoisworknet.com)
- What’s the minimum wage in Illinois while I train or work part‑time?
- 15.00/hour∗∗statewideforadults(18+)sinceJan1,2025;∗∗15.00/hour** statewide for adults (18+) since Jan 1, 2025; **9.00 for tipped workers; $13.00 for youth under 18 (under 650 hrs/year). Some cities (e.g., Chicago) may be higher. (labor.illinois.gov)
- I don’t have a high school diploma—how much does the GED cost right now?
- 36/subject∗∗(4tests=∗∗36/subject** (4 tests = **144). With code ILSAVE26, you pay the local 10∗∗centerfeepertestatatestcenter.HiSETis∗∗10** center fee per test at a test center. HiSET is **23/subject in person. (iccb.org)
About This Guide
- Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
- This guide uses official sources from Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Illinois Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor/ETA, ISAC, ICCB, 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
- Program rules, amounts, and timelines can change at any time. Always verify details with the relevant agency before you apply or enroll.
- Health, safety, and financial decisions are personal. This guide is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or case‑specific advice.
- Security note: For your privacy, avoid emailing full SSNs or bank information. Use official portals linked in this guide when available and double‑check the URL is a .gov or the official site before entering personal data.
Sources referenced (selected)
- Illinois workNet WIOA training search and policies; OJT policy and glossary. (illinoisworknet.com, apps.illinoisworknet.com)
- Illinois DCEO WIOA Notice 24‑NOT‑03 (LLSIL 70% thresholds, effective May 19, 2025). (workforceboard.zendesk.com)
- workNet DuPage (grant cap up to $10,000; OJT/IWT info). (worknetdupage.org)
- Illinois CCAP overview, copay charts, and July 2024 memo. (illinoiscaresforkids.org, dhs.state.il.us)
- Illinois Admin Code CCAP eligibility table (monthly limits). (casetext.com)
- IRS 2025 mileage rates. (irs.gov)
- ICCB HSE testing costs and ILSAVE promo; HiSET Illinois fees. (iccb.org, hiset.org)
- Apprenticeship Illinois and Illinois Works (Pre‑Apprenticeship). (illinoisworknet.com, dceo.illinois.gov)
- DCEO press releases expanding Illinois Works in 2025 (tuition‑free with stipends). (dceo.illinois.gov)
- Illinois DOL minimum wage (effective Jan 1, 2025). (labor.illinois.gov)
- ISAC MAP 2024‑25 formula (max 8,400)and2025‑26start‑upupdate(effectivemax8,400) and 2025‑26 start‑up update (effective max 8,064). (isac.org)
- IDES contact info via Illinois workNet; CareerInfo System training finder. (illinoisworknet.com)
- CTA Second Chance Program (wage, hotline, partners). (transitchicago.com)
- Ventra Transit Benefits (pre‑tax). (ventrachicago.com)
If a link doesn’t open, try it again or search the exact page title on the agency’s site; we avoid unofficial sources and keep URLs current.
🏛️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
- ⚖️ 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
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
