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https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/food-stamps-or-snap-benefits-basics
Date: 12/06/2025

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  2. Health & Benefits
  3. Food stamps (SNAP or Link card)
  4. Food stamps or SNAP benefits basics

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Part of the SNAP Benefits library, sponsored by Winston & Strawn

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Food stamps or SNAP benefits basics Guide

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps people with low income pay for food. Anyone who meets the program requirements can get SNAP benefits. The money comes from the federal government, but in Illinois, the SNAP program is run by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Every month, SNAP benefits are automatically put on a Link card. A Link card can be used to buy food at approved locations.

Learn more about SNAP.

What is SNAP?
Who is eligible?
Who is not eligible?
What is a SNAP unit?
What is a “qualifying member”?
What can someone buy with SNAP benefits?
What cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits?
Does someone need to work to receive SNAP?
How much money can someone make and still get SNAP?
Do assets affect how much SNAP benefits a person can get?
How much will someone get if they are approved for SNAP benefits?
How long does it take to get SNAP benefits?
Does a SNAP recipient have to report changes to IDHS?
Can students in higher education get SNAP?
Can someone get emergency SNAP benefits?
Can someone appeal the denial or reduction of their SNAP benefits?
Can someone withdraw their appeal?
Last full review by a subject matter expert
November 10, 2025
Last revised by staff
November 19, 2025

About our legal information

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Applying for SNAP benefits

Forms

SNAP benefits calculator for lawyers Easy Form
This Easy Form helps legal aid advocates and pro bono lawyers estimate a household's SNAP benefits (food stamps).

Learn more

SNAP benefits or food stamps

Worried about doing this on your own?  You may be able to get free legal help.

Apply Online

Part of the SNAP Benefits library, sponsored by Winston & Strawn

Winston & Strawn logo

Take action

Applying for SNAP benefits

Forms

SNAP benefits calculator for lawyers Easy Form
This Easy Form helps legal aid advocates and pro bono lawyers estimate a household's SNAP benefits (food stamps).

Learn more

SNAP benefits or food stamps
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© 2025 Illinois Legal Aid Online. 
All rights reserved.
 
ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.