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Postpartum Health Coverage and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Illinois

Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Illinois

Last updated: September 2025

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

What This Guide Covers

Every section below starts with the most important action first, gives eligibility rules, shows how to apply, lists documents, cites timelines and phone numbers, and ends with a Plan B. You’ll see short reality checks and tips, plain language, and links placed where you need them.


Medicaid After Birth: What You Can Get for 12 Months Postpartum

Key action: Apply for Moms & Babies or confirm your plan right now so coverage doesn’t lapse.

Illinois Medicaid guarantees 12 months of postpartum coverage under Moms & Babies; you can enroll at ABE Illinois; and most members choose a managed plan through HealthChoice Illinois. Coverage includes checkups, blood pressure checks, mental health care, dental, vision, transport to appointments, and prescriptions through your plan’s pharmacy network. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Illinois states it was first to extend full Medicaid benefits to 12 months “after a pregnancy ends,” which covers miscarriages and other outcomes, and directs members to their HealthChoice Illinois plan for benefits and care coordination; the HFS women’s health page explains the postpartum extension and family planning coverage. Use the plan’s member services line on your ID card for ride scheduling or referrals. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Pregnant people can also get temporary, same-day outpatient coverage through Medicaid Presumptive Eligibility (MPE), then transition to Moms & Babies for hospital and full benefits. If you already have MPE when you submit a Moms & Babies application, MPE is extended during review to prevent gaps. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Moms & Babies Income Limits (Monthly)

These are the 2025 monthly income screens for Moms & Babies (213% FPL). Babies born to a parent on Moms & Babies are eligible for All Kids for one year automatically.

Family Size Income Limit (Monthly)
2 $3,628
3 $4,583
4 $5,538
5 $6,493
6 $7,448

Source: HFS Moms & Babies. (hfs.illinois.gov)

How to apply: Submit your application at ABE Illinois, ask your clinic if they are an All Kids Application Agent, or get help choosing a plan through Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880. Keep your address current at ABE Manage My Case so you receive renewal mail. (abe.illinois.gov)

Timeline: Standard approvals can take up to 45 days; MPE starts same day at participating clinics. Your plan ID card arrives after enrollment; call the plan for urgent care while you wait. Use HFS Health Benefits Hotline at 1-866-468-7543 if you have questions. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Transportation to care: Fee-for-service members should call Transdev at 1-877-725-0569 or visit NETSPAP for a provider list; managed care members schedule rides through the number on the plan card (many use ModivCare or vendor partners). Keep your RIN handy when calling. (hfs.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your application stalls, call HFS Health Benefits Hotline at 1-866-468-7543, use ABE to upload missing documents, and ask your clinic’s benefits staff to fax verifications. For unresolved plan issues or access problems, call Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880 and request a plan change during your 90-day switch period. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Postpartum Mental Health and Well‑Being

Key action: Save the 24/7 hotline number and reach out early if you notice warning signs.

You can call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA for real-time counseling; check Illinois’ Perinatal Depression resources by county; or contact the PPD Illinois Alliance warmline at 1-847-205-4455 for a call back within 24 hours. These lines offer English and Spanish, and the state lists local groups updated periodically. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Your Medicaid plan must cover behavioral health visits, psychiatry, and medications during the 12 months postpartum. You can also call 988 for crisis help; many Illinois groups listed under HFS Hotlines include NAMI at 1-800-950-NAMI and ENH-MOMS at 1-866-364-6667 for counseling and referrals. Keep your plan’s member ID card ready when you call. (hfs.illinois.gov)

If you live in Chicago, a new city campaign promotes warning signs and Medicaid coverage; get materials at Nurturing You and share them with family. The site links to enrollment help and postpartum care schedules that begin within 3 weeks after birth and extend through 12 weeks and beyond. (chicago.gov)

Reality check: Many postpartum mood changes look like “normal stress.” If you have intrusive thoughts, can’t sleep when the baby sleeps, or feel hopeless, treat it as urgent. Call your plan’s nurse line, use 1-833-TLC-MAMA, or go to the ER if you fear harm. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your OB or pediatrician to send an urgent referral to an in-network therapist; ask your plan for a care manager; or request a telehealth visit with a perinatal specialist. Use PPD IL to find a local support group and call 988 if symptoms escalate. (ppdil.org)

Breastfeeding, Pumps, Lactation, and Doulas

Key action: Request a breast pump and a lactation visit before hospital discharge.

Illinois Medicaid increased access to pumps; as of January 1, 2024, one electric pump per year can be covered without prior approval under HFS policy; Medicaid also covers doula and lactation consultant services via approved providers under a 2024 federal State Plan Amendment. Ask discharge staff to place orders and confirm with your plan. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Illinois now covers perinatal doula services through one year postpartum once a doula is certified and enrolled; HFS published a doula fee schedule and provider guidance with certification run by SIU School of Medicine. Ask your hospital if it allows your chosen Medicaid-certified doula during labor and the postpartum stay. (hfs.illinois.gov)

If WIC serves you, ask the clinic about pumps and peer counselors; many families receive loaner or personal pumps through WIC Breastfeeding Support; Chicago families can apply through City WIC or find clinics with the city’s OneChiFam resource finder. Keep your Link/WIC card and ID ready at pickup. (wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a vendor delays your pump, call your plan’s durable medical equipment (DME) vendor list; ask the hospital lactation team to document medical need; and request a temporary manual pump. If you can’t find a doula, ask HFS or your plan for an updated doula roster. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Food, Formula, and Nutrition: WIC + SNAP

Key action: Apply for WIC first; then file for SNAP at the same time in ABE.

Pregnant and postpartum people and infants under age one qualify for WIC and breastfeeding parents can get benefits for up to one year; call 1-800-323-4769, use Chicago WIC, or find county clinics on local health department websites. WIC provides formula, infant foods, nutrition consults, and breastfeeding help. (fns.usda.gov)

Apply for SNAP online at ABE Illinois or call 1-800-843-6154; Illinois uses Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility up to 165% FPL per USDA FNS; see the state worker desk aid for current 2024–25 limits, standard deductions, and SUA levels. Protect your Link card using the We Got You Illinois EBT safety guide and by calling 1-800-678-LINK for freezes and PIN changes. (abe.illinois.gov)

To prevent benefit loss, answer calls from your local Family Community Resource Center and upload proofs in ABE Manage My Case. If you suspect a phishing text, ignore it and only use the number on your Link card or the IDHS Helpline. (abe.illinois.gov)

Quick Reference: SNAP (FY 2025) — Selected Standards

Household Size Max Gross (165% FPL) Max Allotment
1 $2,071 $292
2 $2,811 $536
3 $3,551 $768
4 $4,290 $975

Source: IDHS WAG 25-03-02 (1) SNAP and USDA standards. Always confirm in your case notice. (dhs.state.il.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your SNAP is delayed, call your FCRC; ask for “expedited SNAP” if you have less than 150grossincomeandunder150 gross income and under 100 cash, then submit your photo ID and proof of address. If the office is unreachable, dial 211 Illinois for a SNAP navigator near you. (211illinois.org)

Cash While You Heal: TANF for Very Low Income Parents

Key action: If you have no or very low income, apply for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

Apply for TANF at ABE Illinois, or call the IDHS Helpline at 1-800-843-6154 to find your local office. TANF cash helps cover basics while you recover and bond with your newborn. Payment levels change every October and are tied to 35% of federal poverty guidelines under state rule. (abe.illinois.gov)

For example, as of 03/01/2025 the standard monthly TANF maximum for one adult and one child is 596,andforoneadultwithtwochildrenitis596, and for one adult with two children it is 753, per the IDHS WAG table. Illinois codified that TANF payment levels equal at least 35% of FPL and updates IED amounts that protect part of earned income. (dhs.state.il.us)

TANF has a 60‑month lifetime limit, but months may not count if you meet certain work hours or qualify for exemptions; Illinois Legal Aid outlines important exceptions and reporting duties on time limits and payment levels. Keep all appointment letters; missing a face‑to‑face can close your case. (illinoislegalaid.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, ask for a “fair hearing” right away on your notice, bring pay stubs and newborn proof, and ask the supervisor to reopen your case if a missed interview was the issue. Free legal help is available through Illinois Legal Aid Online or your local legal aid office (search via 211 Illinois). (211illinois.org)

Keep the Lights On: How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Illinois Today

Key action: File a Help Illinois Families request today and call your utility to place a medical or hardship hold.

Start at Help Illinois Families — How to Apply, or call 1-833-711-0374 for help in 30+ languages. For 2025–26, LIHEAP opens October 1 for seniors, people with disabilities, families with children under six, and those disconnected or with shutoff notices; all others apply November 1; the window runs through August 15, 2026, while funds last. (dceo.illinois.gov)

Ask about your utility’s income‑based discount. DCEO notes that natural gas customers of Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas, North Shore Gas, and Peoples Gas receive ongoing Low Income Discounts; electric discounts for ComEd roll out January 1, 2026. Confirm program rules with your utility and Illinois Commerce Commission resources. (dceo.illinois.gov)

If you can’t reach LIHEAP fast enough, call your utility and request a payment plan plus a medical certification if you or the baby has a condition affected by loss of heat or power. For extra help, contact CUB’s LIHEAP guide or dial 211 Illinois to find your Community Action Agency. (citizensutilityboard.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with the ICC Consumer Services Division; ask your pediatrician for a letter supporting a medical hold; and re‑contact your LIHEAP agency with your shutoff date. Keep every reference number. (icc.illinois.gov)

Child Care So You Can Work or Study: CCAP

Key action: If you need care to keep your job or attend school, apply for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

Illinois CCAP helps pay licensed or license‑exempt care so you can work or attend school; start with Illinois Cares for Kids — CCAP, then contact your local CCR&R to apply. Statute sets initial eligibility at no less than 225% FPL and provides graduated exit up to 275% FPL before transition, with an absolute cap at 85% of State Median Income. Co‑pays are capped and may be as low as $1 for very low‑income households. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)

You can qualify if you work, attend training or college, are a teen parent in school, or are in approved TANF activities; the Illinois Cares for Kids FAQ and local CCR&R sites explain how to calculate income and find providers. If you are unhoused, submit the temporary living arrangement form with your application. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your case is pending, ask your CCR&R to backdate to the date a complete application was received; if denied for income, verify they used gross—not net—income and the correct FPL table date. Ask your provider about scholarship slots while you wait. (law.cornell.edu)

Early Intervention (Birth to Three) and Developmental Supports

Key action: If you have any concern about your baby’s development, call for an evaluation.

Anyone can refer; find your Child & Family Connections office through the Illinois EI Clearinghouse or call 1-800-843-6154. Evaluations are free, services happen where your child learns and plays, and immigration status is not checked. Your insurance or Medicaid may be billed; some families pay a sliding fee. (eiclearinghouse.web.illinois.edu)

If you’re unsure which office serves your county, use IDHS’s office locator, or call 211 for help navigating CFCs listed in the 211 Illinois directory. Keep your child’s Medicaid or plan info handy to speed scheduling. (dhs.state.il.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t schedule within 45 days, ask for the CFC manager; request interim home‑based strategies while waiting; and contact your pediatrician for community therapy referrals. Keep a dated log of calls. (eiclearinghouse.org)

Home Visiting and Nurse Visits After Birth

Key action: If you delivered in Chicago, accept the Family Connects nurse home visit.

Family Connects Chicago offers free, voluntary nurse visits about 3 weeks after birth; learn more from Family Connects Chicago or through hospital partners like UChicago Medicine. Nurses check your blood pressure, screen for depression, help with feeding, and connect you to diapers, WIC, housing and safety resources. (chicago.gov)

Outside Chicago, ask about state‑funded home visiting programs (Healthy Families Illinois, Parents as Teachers) supported by the Illinois Department of Early Childhood and federal MIECHV. Illinois continues to invest in expanding home visiting capacity statewide. (idec.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your hospital didn’t offer a home visit, call your local health department or dial 211 Illinois and ask for “home visiting” or “Family Connects” in your county. Ask your Medicaid plan’s care manager for a postpartum nurse call. (211illinois.org)

Employment Protections, Time Off, and Pumping at Work

Key action: Use your paid leave rights and your right to pump at work.

Statewide, the Paid Leave for All Workers Act gives most employees up to 40 hours per year to use for any reason; you earn 1 hour per 40 worked and can use time after 90 days of employment. In Chicago, the Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave ordinance gives most workers up to 5 days of paid leave and 5 days of paid sick leave, with accrual rules and carryover. Confirm your employer’s notice and posting duties. (labor.illinois.gov)

If your job is in Chicago, check updated FAQs and effective dates for private lawsuits and cure periods as detailed in city summaries and news; you can review city explanations under BACP updates. Separately, federal law protects pumping breaks and space under the PUMP Act; ask HR for a clean, private, non‑bathroom space and unpaid or paid breaks per employer policy. (chicago.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Illinois Department of Labor at 312-793-2600, file a complaint, and document your requests. In Chicago, call 311 to reach the Office of Labor Standards. For legal advice, contact Illinois Legal Aid Online. (labor.illinois.gov)

Child Support, Paternity, and Vital Records

Key action: Open a child support case even if the other parent lives in another state.

Services are free; enroll with HFS Child Support Services or call 1-800-447-4278 (TTY 1-800-526-5812). Use the Illinois Child Support Estimator for a rough idea of payments; the State Disbursement Unit (SDU) handles deposits and debit cards. Have the baby’s full name, the other parent’s info, and any court orders ready. (hfs.illinois.gov)

For a birth certificate, order through IDPH Vital Records; in-person service in Springfield is limited (10 a.m.–3 p.m.), and mail processing can take about 12 weeks. Many counties can issue certified copies faster; check your county clerk’s site. (dph.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t afford fees, ask the court for a fee waiver for vital records needed for benefits; for child support questions, call the HFS Call Center or visit your regional DCSS office listed on the HFS site. (illinois.gov)

Chicago Water Bill Help

Key action: If you live in Chicago and owe for water, apply for payment relief now.

Check the city’s Utility Billing Relief (UBR) program on the City of Chicago Finance site; call 311 for guidance; and ask your alderperson’s office to help submit documentation. Pair this with LIHEAP if heat or electric is also overdue, and request flexible payment plans while your applications are pending. (dceo.illinois.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact 211 Metro Chicago for local partner agencies; ask your Medicaid plan care manager about social needs supports; and request a letter from your pediatrician if water shutoff threatens infant health. (211illinois.org)

Diverse Communities and Tailored Supports

LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you face bias or need help changing identity documents, call the new IL Pride Connect legal hotline at 1-855-805-9200; for benefits questions, ask IDHS about language and accessibility; and contact AIDS Foundation Chicago for case management if HIV care is part of your health plan. Medicaid plans must honor your chosen name; ask Client Enrollment Services for plan switch guidance if needed. (myjournalcourier.com)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask your plan about care coordination and disability accommodations; apply for SNAP with disability rules through ABE; and call Arc of Illinois for advocacy. If your child needs Early Intervention, contact EI Clearinghouse or your CFC office. TTY services are available at state helplines listed by HFS. (dhs.state.il.us)

Veteran single mothers: Ask the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs about women veteran coordinators; enroll in WIC through IDHS; and use HRSA’s maternal mental health hotline if you need confidential support. If you use TRICARE and Medicaid, confirm coordination of benefits with your plan. (fns.usda.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can get Moms & Babies regardless of immigration status; for legal and benefit help, visit Welcoming Centers (IDHS); and ask your hospital for language services. Use 211 Illinois to find ESL and legal clinics that work with new arrivals. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: In Chicago, American Indian Health Service of Chicago shares maternal health and hotline info; your Medicaid plan must provide culturally responsive care. Ask Client Enrollment Services for an in‑network provider comfortable with tribal traditions and birth preferences. (aihschgo.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Use Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation for rides; ask your plan for telehealth; and apply for LIHEAP at Help Illinois Families if heating costs crowd out diapers or fuel. If your county lacks WIC clinics, call 1-800-323-4769 for the closest mobile site. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Single fathers: If you have custody, you can apply for WIC for infants and toddlers, SNAP, and TANF if income is very low; use the HFS Paternity resources to establish legal parentage and get a support order. (dhs.state.il.us)

Language access: ABE, Link, and many hotlines offer Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and more; state lines list TTY access on HFS Medical Programs; 211 Illinois also supports text at 898211. Ask agencies for large print applications or audio formats when needed. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Resources by Region

Chicago and Cook County: Use CountyCare if you prefer a public plan; get city nursing visits via Family Connects Chicago; and find behavioral health and maternity care through Cook County Health. For benefits navigation, try 211 Metro Chicago. (countycare.com)

Northern Illinois (Rockford, Waukegan, Elgin): Pick a plan via HealthChoice Illinois; find tantrum-proof care at community health centers like Crusader or Erie; for Early Intervention, use CFC contacts; call 211 Illinois for diapers and transportation. (enrollhfses.illinois.gov)

Central Illinois (Peoria, Bloomington, Champaign, Springfield): Apply at ABE; connect to WIC at county health departments like McLean County WIC; and use LIHEAP if utilities are past due. For home visiting, see Illinois Home Visiting. (health.mcleancountyil.gov)

Southern Illinois (Metro East, Carbondale, Harrisburg): Use community health systems like SIHF; apply for WIC if your county clinic is open; and call 211 Southwestern Illinois. For energy help, submit at Help Illinois Families. (211illinois.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Common Mistakes to Avoid

“Reality Check” — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

  • Medicaid plan changes and provider networks: Plans may change providers mid‑year; if your OB or pediatrician leaves network, ask Client Enrollment Services to switch during your 90‑day window or for cause; call your plan for continuity of care through active treatment. (enrollhfses.illinois.gov)
  • LIHEAP can run out locally: The state runs October–August, but counties can exhaust funds earlier; apply early at Help Illinois Families and ask about utility‑run discounts. (dceo.illinois.gov)
  • Child care slots are tight: Even when you qualify for CCAP, providers may be full; ask CCR&R for waitlists and family, friend, and neighbor options that meet CCAP rules. (illinoiscaresforkids.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Program Who Qualifies Where to Apply Typical Wait
Moms & Babies (12‑mo postpartum) Pregnant/postpartum up to 213% FPL; all statuses ABE Illinois; help via All Kids/MPE MPE same day; full in days–weeks (abe.illinois.gov)
WIC Pregnant/postpartum; infants/children <5 Call 1-800-323-4769; Chicago WIC Often <2 weeks (fns.usda.gov)
SNAP Most low‑income households (BBCE) ABE; standards: IDHS WAG 7 days expedited; 30 days regular (dhs.state.il.us)
TANF Very low income parents ABE; payment table IDHS WAG 30–45 days (dhs.state.il.us)
LIHEAP Income‑eligible households Help Illinois Families Varies by county; apply early (dceo.illinois.gov)
CCAP Parents working or in school Illinois Cares for Kids CCAP 2–4 weeks (varies) (illinoiscaresforkids.org)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

County‑Specific Differences That Matter

  • Cook County: CountyCare is a large Medicaid plan with an extensive safety‑net network; Client Enrollment Services can help you compare plan extras like transport, diapers, or doula programs. For city residents, Family Connects Chicago offers a universal nurse visit. (countycare.com)
  • Collar counties (DuPage, Kane, Lake, Will, McHenry): Many providers are in managed care networks; call your plan to verify your pediatrician and OB are “in‑network” before delivery. Transportation vendors vary by plan; see Non‑Emergency Transportation. (hfs.illinois.gov)
  • Downstate rural counties: Clinics may have limited OB slots; enroll early in Moms & Babies and ask for referrals to hospitals with labor units. For energy help, apply early at Help Illinois Families because funds can go fast in winter. (dceo.illinois.gov)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Medicaid/TANF/SNAP denial: Read the reason code on the notice; upload the missing proof in ABE Manage My Case; and request a fair hearing before the deadline. For help, contact Illinois Legal Aid Online or ask 211 Illinois for a benefits navigator.
  • WIC denial or delay: Call the WIC state contact at 1-800-323-4769; ask the clinic supervisor for a rapid appointment; and bring ID, address, and income proofs listed by City WIC. (fns.usda.gov)
  • LIHEAP denial: Ask for an appeal with your Community Action Agency; ensure the correct household size and income were used; and print your request ID status to show your utility. (dceo.illinois.gov)

Tables You Can Screenshot

Table — Moms & Babies vs. MPE vs. Family Planning

Program What it Covers Who It’s For How to Start
MPE Same‑day outpatient prenatal care; no hospital Pregnant people meeting income rules Ask an MPE provider; call All Kids Hotline (hfs.illinois.gov)
Moms & Babies Full benefits incl. hospital; 12‑month postpartum Pregnant/postpartum up to 213% FPL Apply at ABE; plan via HealthChoice Illinois (abe.illinois.gov)
Family Planning Birth control, STI care Non‑pregnant people Ask plan or see HFS Family Planning (hfs.illinois.gov)

Table — TANF Snapshot (as of 03/01/2025)

Family Unit Adult+Child Payment Child‑Only Payment IED (Initial Employment Deduction)
1 $439 $329 $213
2 $596 $447 $286
3 $753 $565 $358

Source: IDHS WAG 25‑03‑02 (3). (dhs.state.il.us)

Table — Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation

Coverage Type Who to Call Notes
Fee‑for‑Service Medicaid 1-877-725-0569 (Transdev); NETSPAP Transdev lists providers; you call to schedule with them. (hfs.illinois.gov)
Managed Care Number on plan card; many use ModivCare Ask for rides at least 3 business days ahead; check your plan site. (bcbsil.com)

Table — LIHEAP Key Dates (PY 2026)

What When Where to Apply
Priority groups (seniors, disability, under 6, disconnected) Oct 1, 2025 Help Illinois Families or 1-833-711-0374 (dceo.illinois.gov)
All other eligible households Nov 1, 2025 Same as above; ask for appointment slots early. (dceo.illinois.gov)
Application window Through Aug 15, 2026 (or until funds run out) Keep confirmation number for utilities. (dceo.illinois.gov)

Table — HealthChoice Illinois Plans (member lines)

Plan Member Services Enrollment Help
Aetna Better Health 1-866-329-4701 Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880 (enrollhfses.illinois.gov)
Blue Cross Community 1-877-860-2837 Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880 (bcbsil.com)
CountyCare (Cook) 1-312-864-8200 / 1-855-444-1661 Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880 (countycare.com)
Meridian 1-866-606-3700 (check your card) Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880 (ilmeridian.com)
Molina 1-855-687-7861 (check your card) Client Enrollment Services at 1-877-912-8880 (enrollhfses.illinois.gov)

FAQs (Illinois‑Specific)

How do I get Medicaid right after a positive pregnancy test: Ask your clinic if they are an MPE site for same‑day outpatient coverage; then apply at ABE and choose a plan via HealthChoice Illinois so hospital care is covered. (hfs.illinois.gov)

I had a miscarriage; do I still get postpartum Medicaid: Illinois extends full benefits for 12 months after a pregnancy ends; confirm services with your HealthChoice Illinois plan and schedule follow‑ups with your OB or PCP. See the state women’s health page. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Can I get a free breast pump and doula through Medicaid: Yes. Pumps are covered under HFS policy (one per year without prior approval), and doula services are a covered benefit since 02/01/2024; ask your plan for enrolled providers. (hfs.illinois.gov)

How fast can I get WIC in Chicago if I just delivered: Call City WIC to schedule; bring ID, proof of address, and hospital paperwork. If appointments are backlogged, ask for a temporary food package and a lactation call. (chicago.gov)

What if my power is about to be shut off this week: File at Help Illinois Families, call 1-833-711-0374, and request a hardship hold from your utility; if refused, contact the ICC Consumer Services Division. (dceo.illinois.gov)

Does Illinois have paid family leave: Illinois does not have a statewide paid family leave insurance program yet, but most workers earn 40 hours of paid leave under the Paid Leave for All Workers Act; Chicago workers also earn extra paid sick and paid leave under city rules. Ask HR about short‑term disability through your employer. (labor.illinois.gov)

How can I get rides to medical visits with a newborn: Fee‑for‑service Medicaid lists providers via NETSPAP at 1-877-725-0569; managed care members call the number on their plan card (many use ModivCare). Book at least 3 business days ahead. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Where can I get legal help if my benefits were cut after I had the baby: Try Illinois Legal Aid Online, IL Pride Connect if LGBTQ+ issues are involved, or call 211 Illinois for a local legal aid referral. (myjournalcourier.com)

I need a birth certificate to add baby to benefits — how long: IDPH Vital Records notes mail processing around 12 weeks; county clerks may be faster; bring ID and fee. (dph.illinois.gov)

Can I get child support even if the father lives out of state: Yes. Open a case with HFS Child Support Services; they can work across states and process payments via the SDU. (hfs.illinois.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Nota: Esta sección se tradujo con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con los sitios oficiales enlazados.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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

This guide is for general information. It is not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules change and local offices may have different procedures. Always confirm eligibility, required documents, and current benefit amounts with the agency or plan linked here before you apply. Call to confirm current availability before applying.

Learn more:

  1. Home
  2. Illinois Department of Human Services | Food and Nutrition Service
  3. How To Apply – Utility Bill Assistance
  4. Frequently Asked Questions | National Maternal Mental Health Hotline | MCHB
  5. Notice
  6. Enroll for Services | HFS
  7. Home – 211 Illinois
  8. Moms and Babies | HFS
  9. Illinois Healthcare Portal: Women’s Health | HFS
  10. Illinois.gov – IL Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) ABE Home Page
  11. MedicalTransportationNonEmergency
  12. Medical Programs | HFS
  13. Perinatal Depression Hotlines | HFS
  14. City of Chicago :: In Honor of Maternal Health Awareness Day, the Chicago Department of Public Health Launches “Nurturing You For A Healthy Tomorrow” Campaign to Raise Awareness About Expanded Medicaid Postpartum Coverage
  15. Connect to a Supportive Postpartum Depression Hotline
  16. Doula Fee Schedule
  17. Finding a Breast Pump | WIC Breastfeeding Support
  18. IDHS: WAG 25-03-02 (1) SNAP
  19. IDHS: WAG 25-03-02 (3) TANF
  20. TANF benefit time limits | Illinois Legal Aid Online
  21. A step-by-step guide to applying for LIHEAP | Citizens Utility Board
  22. Utility Energy Assistance
  23. Child Care Assistance Program – Illinois Cares for Kids
  24. CCAP Frequently Asked Questions – Illinois Cares for Kids
  25. Ill. Admin. Code tit. 89, § 50.230 – Child Care Eligibility | State Regulations | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
  26. Making a Referral to Early Intervention | Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
  27. IDHS: Office Locator
  28. What Is Early Intervention? | Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse
  29. Family Connects
  30. Illinois Home Visiting
  31. Paid Leave for All Workers Act
  32. City of Chicago :: Mayor Johnson’s Paid Time Off Policy Effective July 1, Minimum Wage, One Fair Wage, and Fair Workweek Also in Effect
  33. Birth Records
  34. Agency
  35. 211 Illinois Network – 211 Illinois
  36. State launches LGBTQ+ resources hub, legal hotline
  37. Maternal Mental Health Hotline | American Indian Health Service of Chicago, Inc.
  38. Open Enrollment – CountyCare Health Plan
  39. Women, Infants & Children Nutrition, Education & Supplemental Food Program | McLean County, IL – Official Website
  40. Illinois State Disbursement Unit
  41. EBT Protection | We Got You Illinois
  42. Family Planning & Birth Control | HFS
  43. Transportation Services | Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  44. Join BCCHP | Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  45. Discover
  46. City of Chicago :: WIC and Nutrition for Families
  47. Obtain Birth Certificate

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