How to Get Food Stamps in Chicago

Chicago's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly called the Food Stamp program, is designed to help low-income people and families purchase food necessary for a healthy diet. To apply for benefits, you need to complete either an online or paper application. Benefits are provided via the Illinois Link System, an electronic card accepted at most grocery stores. If you qualify, you will begin receiving SNAP benefits within 30 days of turning in your application. If some of the required information is missing, your application will be denied. It can be reopened if you provide the missing proof within 60 days.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of residence
• Proof of Identification
• Social Security card
• Financial documents

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply for SNAP online, using the Illinois Web Benefits Online Application System (see Resources). Make sure to follow the instructions on the first page. If you apply online for your benefits, there is no need to complete a paper application. You do not have to finish the online application in one sitting. You can stop at any time while filling out the application; the information will be saved for up to 15 days.

• 2

  Download and print a copy of a paper application if you do not want to apply online (see Resources). Make sure to follow the directions, include your name and address, and sign the application. Answer as many questions as you can. It is okay to leave questions blank if you don't know the answer. The completed application can be mailed, faxed or brought in person to your local Family Community Resource Center. Use the DHS Office Locator (see Resources) to locate your local office.

• 3

  Apply in person at your local Family Community Resource Center. Use the DHS Office Locator to locate the Center in your county to apply for benefits in person.

• 4

  Participate in an interview with a DHS caseworker. After the DHS office receives your application, you will be asked to come to the local office for an interview. If you are unable to come to the office, a phone interview will be held instead. As part of the interview process, you will be asked to supply several documents, including proof of your identity with a driver's license or Social Security card, proof of your residence with a rental agreement or mortgage statement, and proof of Social Security numbers for all household members.Your DHS caseworker will tell you which additional documents are required.