If you live in Illinois, the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) helps low-income families buy groceries through an Illinois Link EBT card. The income limits and benefit amounts were updated on October 1, 2025, as part of the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
✅ Key Points for 2026 Illinois SNAP
- Income limits increased starting October 1, 2025
- Most households qualify up to 165% of poverty level
- Elderly/disabled households qualify up to 200% FPL
- Maximum SNAP benefit for 4 people: $994/month
- Minimum benefit: $24/month for 1–2 person households
- Asset limits: $3,000 (or $4,500 if elderly/disabled)
- Apply online: ABE.Illinois.gov
👉 Use our Illinois SNAP Calculator 2026 to check your estimated benefit amount.
Page Contents
- 1 2026 Illinois SNAP Income Limits
- 2 Illinois SNAP Maximum Monthly Benefits (FY2026)
- 3 Illinois SNAP Deductions and Allowances (2026)
- 4 Illinois SNAP Asset (Resource) Limits
- 5 Work Requirements (ABAWD & General)
- 6 Special Rules for Seniors, Disabled, and Students
- 7 How to Apply for Illinois SNAP
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions
- 8.1 1. What is the income limit for food stamps in Illinois in 2026?
- 8.2 2. How much SNAP can a family of 3 get in Illinois?
- 8.3 3. What is the minimum SNAP benefit in Illinois?
- 8.4 4. Do assets count for SNAP in Illinois?
- 8.5 5. When did the new Illinois SNAP limits take effect?
- 8.6 6. How do I apply for SNAP in Illinois?
- 9 Conclusion
2026 Illinois SNAP Income Limits
Illinois now uses 165% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for most households and 200% FPL for those with an elderly (60+) or disabled member. Net income after deductions must remain at or below 100% of FPL.
Gross Monthly Income Limits — Standard Households (165% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income | Annual Gross Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,152 | $25,823 |
| 2 | $2,908 | $34,898 |
| 3 | $3,664 | $43,973 |
| 4 | $4,421 | $53,048 |
| 5 | $5,177 | $62,123 |
| 6 | $5,933 | $71,198 |
| 7 | $6,689 | $80,273 |
| 8 | $7,446 | $89,348 |
| Each additional | +$757 | +$9,075 |
Gross Monthly Income Limits — Elderly or Disabled (200% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income | Annual Gross Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,608 | $31,300 |
| 2 | $3,525 | $42,300 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $53,300 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $64,300 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $75,300 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $86,300 |
| 7 | $8,108 | $97,300 |
| 8 | $9,025 | $108,300 |
Net Monthly Income Limits (100% FPL)
| Household Size | Monthly Net Income | Annual Net Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,305 | $15,660 |
| 2 | $1,763 | $21,156 |
| 3 | $2,221 | $26,652 |
| 4 | $2,680 | $32,160 |
| 5 | $3,138 | $37,656 |
| 6 | $3,596 | $43,152 |
| 7 | $4,055 | $48,660 |
| 8 | $4,513 | $54,156 |
| Each additional | +$459 | +$5,508 |
Illinois SNAP Maximum Monthly Benefits (FY2026)
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $298 |
| 2 | $546 |
| 3 | $785 |
| 4 | $994 |
| 5 | $1,183 |
| 6 | $1,421 |
| 7 | $1,571 |
| 8 | $1,789 |
| Each Additional | +$218 |
✅ Minimum benefit: $24/month (for 1–2 person households)
Illinois SNAP Deductions and Allowances (2026)
Standard Deductions
| Household Size | Standard Deduction |
|---|---|
| 1–3 people | $209 |
| 4 people | $223 |
| 5 people | $261 |
| 6+ people | $299 |
Utility Allowances (Deductions)
- Heating/Cooling Allowance (Highest) – for households paying for heating/cooling or receiving LIHEAP ($21+ in past 12 months)
- Limited Utility Allowance: $445 – for two or more utilities (not including heat/cool)
- Telephone Allowance: for households with phone expenses only
Shelter Deductions
- Maximum excess shelter deduction: $712/month (standard households)
- No cap for elderly/disabled households
- Homeless shelter deduction: around $190.30/month for households without permanent housing
Illinois SNAP Asset (Resource) Limits
| Household Type | Limit |
|---|---|
| Standard households | $3,000 |
| Elderly/disabled households | $4,500 |
| Categorically eligible households | No asset test (unless lottery/gambling winnings ≥ $4,500) |
💡 Vehicles and primary homes are not counted as assets.
Work Requirements (ABAWD & General)
- ABAWDs (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) ages 18–54 must work or train at least 20 hours/week to keep benefits beyond 3 months in a 36-month period.
- Exemptions apply for people who are pregnant, disabled, caring for dependents, or enrolled in education/training.
- General work rules: Adults ages 16–59 must register for work and accept suitable job offers if assigned.
Special Rules for Seniors, Disabled, and Students
- Seniors (60+) & Disabled: Higher income limits (200% FPL), no shelter deduction cap, medical expense deductions, and simplified recertification every 24 months.
- Students (half-time or more): Must meet certain criteria (e.g., working 20 hrs/week, caring for dependents, or participating in work-study).
- Immigrant households: U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident children may qualify even if parents are undocumented.
How to Apply for Illinois SNAP
You can apply in three ways:
- Online: ABE.Illinois.gov
- By phone: 1-800-843-6154 (Illinois DHS Help Line)
- In person: Visit your local Family Community Resource Center
You’ll need documents showing income, identity, residency, and household expenses.
Most applications are processed within 30 days. You may get expedited benefits in 7 days if you have little or no income.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the income limit for food stamps in Illinois in 2026?
A single person can earn up to $2,152/month gross, and a family of four up to $4,421/month gross.
2. How much SNAP can a family of 3 get in Illinois?
The maximum allotment for 3 people is $785 per month in 2026.
3. What is the minimum SNAP benefit in Illinois?
Households of 1–2 people will get at least $24/month.
4. Do assets count for SNAP in Illinois?
Yes. Most households must stay under $3,000 in resources. If elderly or disabled, the limit is $4,500.
5. When did the new Illinois SNAP limits take effect?
The updated limits started October 1, 2025, and run through September 30, 2026.
6. How do I apply for SNAP in Illinois?
You can apply online via the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) or visit your local Family Community Resource Center.
Conclusion
The Illinois SNAP income limits and benefits for 2026 are higher than last year, making it easier for families to qualify. A family of four can now earn up to $4,421/month gross income and receive up to $994 in benefits each month.
If you’re unsure of eligibility, use the Illinois SNAP Calculator 2026 to estimate your benefits instantly. SNAP remains one of Illinois’s most important programs to help families afford nutritious meals every month.
