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Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in Illinois
Illinois programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Illinois Department of Human Services
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
TANF provides cash help to eligible families with children and pregnant people.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Illinois Department of Human Services
Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled Cash Assistance
AABD Cash provides monthly cash assistance to eligible older adults and people with disabilities.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services
Child Support Services
Child Support Services helps parents establish and collect financial support for their children.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Illinois Veterans’ Benefits and Services
IDVA helps veterans and their families find and apply for state and federal benefits.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhoneIn person
Illinois Department of Revenue
Illinois Earned Income Credit
The Illinois EITC is a refundable tax credit for eligible workers and families.
Ways to apply:Paper
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Social Security Administration
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Monthly payments for people with little income and few resources who are 65 or older, blind, or have a disability, including children.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call Social Security to make an appointment. Bring proof of age, income and any medical records.
Social Security Administration
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes and now cannot work because of a disability that will last a long time.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call Social Security. Have your medical records and work history ready.
Social Security Administration
Social Security retirement benefits
Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes, starting as early as 62. Spouses and widows may also get benefits.
Apply online at SSA.gov about four months before you want payments to start, or call Social Security.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA disability compensation and benefits
Monthly payments for veterans with an illness or injury caused or made worse by military service, plus education, home loan and other benefits.
File a claim online at VA.gov or call VA. A free accredited representative can help you file.
Internal Revenue Service
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
A federal tax credit for people who work and earn low to moderate income. It can mean a bigger refund, even if you owe no tax.
Claim it when you file your federal tax return. Free help from VITA or IRS Free File can make sure you get it.
Internal Revenue Service
VITA and TCE free tax help
IRS-certified volunteers prepare and file your taxes for free, in person, for people with low or moderate income, older adults and people with disabilities.
Find a site near you on IRS.gov or call the locator line, then bring your ID and tax papers.
Internal Revenue Service
IRS Free File
File your federal tax return online for free with tax software offered through the IRS, if your income is under the year's limit.
Start from IRS.gov so you get the free version. Fillable forms are free for everyone.
Checked on October 9, 2026
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