Apply For Illinois TANF

This page provides the Illinois TANF eligibility requirements. Applicants must meet both state and federal guidelines for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Individuals who apply for TANF must meet the monetary and non-monetary state guidelines, complete work-related activities, provide paternity information about the children in the household and report as required by the state.

Illinois residents who qualify for welfare are required to furnish information such as citizenship, income, resources, and age. Only household members who are eligible can receive Illinois welfare benefits. Read on for more information about applying for TANF. If you have additional questions or issues about this program, then contact TANF Illinois.

Apply For Cash, SNAP (Food Stamps) & Medical Assistance

Helping Families. Supporting Communities. Empowering Individuals. There are several ways to apply for Cash, SNAP (formerly Food Stamps), and Medical Assistance.


Apply For TANF Online

SNAP (Food Stamps) Medical and Cash Benefits - Apply Online for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) to apply for SNAP, cash or medical assistance at http://www.abe.illinois.gov/


TANF Application Document

Download the application


Follow the directions on the form. Type in as much information as you can. If you can't answer all the questions, that's ok. You must include your name and address. You may print out the application and write on it if you prefer. You must sign the form.

Once you've completed the application, carry, mail or fax it to your local Family Community Resource Center. Use the DHS Office Locator to locate your local office.


Apply At Your local Family Community Resource Center

Applications are taken at DHS local offices. Use the DHS Office Locator to locate the Family Community Resource Center in your county to apply for benefits.


What happens next?

The application process begins the day your DHS office receives your signed application. You will be asked to come to the office for an interview or participate by phone if you are unable to come to the office. You will be asked for various types of documents such as:


Need Help with an Application

Please call our toll-free line at 1-800-843-6154 (Voice), 1-800-447-6404 (TTY), if you have questions or need help with the application.


Illinois Employment Search

Part of the requirement, while on the TANF program, is finding a job to help sustain your financial needs. Illinois provides an online job site for you to search for employment. You can view the job site by clicking here.


Apply Online For Illinois TANF

If you have questions about applying for TANF benefits, or you want to see if you can apply for TANF Georgia online, then visit the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families website here.