DHS announces Web applications for cash, medical and food stamps

[February 26, 2009]  CHICAGO -- Continuing to make services for customers easier and more efficient, the Illinois Department of Human Services announced Wednesday that individuals and families with an Illinois address may file a Web application with the Department of Human Services for cash, medical and food stamp assistance from wherever they have access to the Internet. Instead of waiting in line to fill out the extensive application, then waiting again to seek services, customers can access the Web application directly at www.dhs.state.il.us. The Web application is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"Our goal at IDHS has always been to provide services in a more efficient manner so that our customers are spending less time waiting and more time being served. The online application is not only convenient for the customer who may not have the time to wait in line, but it reduces the need for an extra trip to the IDHS office," said IDHS Secretary Carol Adams, Ph.D.

To apply, applicants will be asked to choose a password and are given an ID number. The Web application gathers basic information about the individual and their family, such as information about members of the family needing assistance, as well as their income, assets and expenses. If they choose to logout of the application and complete it at a later date, their information will be saved for up to 15 days. They can also print the information they have already entered.

The application is submitted electronically to the IDHS Family Community Resource Center that serves the area where they live. Applicants receive an e-confirmation number when their submitted application has been received so they can track the receipt and status of their application online. They may also print a list of what proof they will need to complete their application and the name and address of the Family Community Resource Center that serves the area where they live.

Individuals and families can use the application to apply for medical assistance, food stamps and cash benefits such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; Aid to Aged, Blind and Disabled; and the General Assistance program in the city of Chicago. It usually takes about 30 days to get food stamp benefits unless applicants need food right away and have little or no money. Cash and medical applications take up to 45 days.

DHS serves more than 634,000 Illinois families through the TANF and food stamp programs.

The Illinois Department of Human Services is the state's largest agency and offers assistance including TANF, child care assistance programs, education, job training, transportation, food stamps, medical, immigration and refugee services, literacy, vocational training, vocational rehabilitation, and other services to help Illinoisans work toward self-sufficiency.

[Text from Illinois Department of Human Services file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]