Illinois launches $400 emergency benefit for residents who lost SNAP
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CHICAGO, Ill., (KBSI) — Illinois residents who lost federal food assistance because of expanded work requirements may qualify for a one-time $400 payment through a new state program.
Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services announced the Families Receiving Emergency Support for Hunger program Thursday. The $70 million initiative was included in the state’s fiscal year 2027 budget and could assist up to 175,000 people.
About 100,000 Illinoisans are expected to receive the first payments beginning Aug. 1.
To qualify, a person must have lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits on or after May 1 because they did not meet the federal work requirement or qualify for an exemption. Those who regained their SNAP eligibility are not eligible for the payment.
No application or paperwork is required. The state will automatically deposit $400 for each eligible household member onto the household’s Illinois Link card. Notices will be mailed to qualifying households.
Residents who lost benefits from May through July are scheduled to receive payments Aug. 1. Beginning in August, payments will be issued after the 16th of the month in which an eligible person loses SNAP coverage.
The payments will continue through June 2027 or until funding is exhausted. Receiving the benefit will not affect eligibility for Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or similar programs.
Residents who need a replacement Link card may visit EBTedge.com or call 1-800-678-5465. Additional information is available at dhs.illinois.gov/fresh.
