Not safe at home
If you are in danger now, call 911
You can talk with an advocate any time. It is free and private, and they can help you make a safety plan.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline800-799-7233
- 911Emergency
- 988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineCall 988
- 988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineText 988
If someone checks your phone, use a private window or a safer device.
What to do first
- If you are in danger now, call 911.
- Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788. Someone answers any time.
- Use a phone or computer the other person cannot check, and a private browser window.
- Ask the hotline or 211 about shelter and your state's programs for people leaving abuse.
- When you are safe, apply for health coverage, food and cash help in your own name.
Talk it through
If it is safe to type, tell us what is going on. Use a private browser window on a device the other person cannot check.
Dates that matter
These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.
60 days
Health coverage
People leaving domestic abuse can sign up for their own Marketplace plan outside open enrollment. You have 60 days.
Source: HealthCare.gov
Help from Illinois
Illinois programs that fit what happened. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Illinois Department of Human Services
Domestic Violence Services
IDHS funds services that help people affected by domestic violence find support and safety.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Illinois Department of Human Services
Homeless Prevention Program
The program may help eligible people and families who are homeless or at risk of losing housing.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Illinois Housing Development Authority
Rental Housing Support Program
The program funds local partners that provide rental assistance to eligible households.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
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
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
SNAP helps eligible households pay for food using an Illinois Link card.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services
Medical Assistance Program
Illinois Medicaid pays for health care for eligible residents.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal help
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
TheHotline.org
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Free and confidential. Advocates can help you make a safety plan and find shelter near you.
LSC.gov
Free legal help
Legal aid offices give free legal help to people with low income. Find the one that serves you with the Legal Services Corporation's search.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Help near you
Find county and state offices near you, or call 211 to talk to someone about help in your area.
Talk to a person
- 211 Illinois
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988