Knowing where to turn when you need money assistance for paying bills in Illinois can be the difference in ensuring your basic needs are met. Many people struggle financially, especially after the prices of things have increased so much in recent years. It is important to get help when struggling financially, so that the situation does not continue to get worse over time. There are numerous programs that provide money assistance for paying bills in Illinois.
When bills do not get paid, for whatever reason, people will find that they will begin loosing those goods and services. The problem with this is that it may be things that people need in order to get by each month. This may include paying for food, shelter, heating, and more. Getting help from money assistance programs can ensure that those basic needs are being met and people continue to get by. In addition to the programs listed below, be sure to contact your local churches to see if they can offer assistance for paying bills.
Money Assistance Programs in Illinois
The programs below will provide money assistance for paying bills in Illinois. They will ensure that basic needs are being met, including providing for such things as food, shelter, and medical care. Most programs require that you have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen to be approved. You do not have to pay the funds back, because it is not a loan, and you can get help through multiple programs at one time.
211 – This free referral program is provided through the United Way. The program is open to everyone in the country to use. If you are struggling financially, you can contact the service for referrals to programs in your area that can help with your specific needs. To get more information about the program and organization, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program will provide people with assistance purchasing groceries each month. To qualify, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. Those who are approved will receive a debit card in the mail that is used to pay for groceries. Each month, the government electronically adds more money assistance to the card. The amount that you receive each month depends on how many dependents you have. There is no limit to how long you can receive help through this program. SNAP used to be referred to as food stamps, and many people today still call it by that name. To get more information and apply for help, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Those who are struggling in the state of Illinois may be able to qualify for monthly money assistance through the TANF program. The program will provide those who qualify with a monthly cash benefit that can be used to pay for living expenses, including food, rent, transportation, clothing, bills, etc. To qualify for the program, you have to have a low income, be pregnant or have a minor dependent child, and develop a plan for self-sufficiency. Those who are approved for the program will receive money assistance each month that can be used to pay bills and living expenses. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicaid – Medical expenses are some of the biggest bills that people face. The good news is that those with a low income can get help paying for them if they qualify for the Medicaid program. This program will help pay for bills related to things like going to the hospital, visiting the doctor, getting prescription drugs, and more. To qualify for the program you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can get help through the Medicaid program. As long as you continue meet the qualifications you can keep getting the assistance. To get more information about Medicaid in Illinois and apply for the program, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program will help with money assistance for paying energy bills. If you need assistance paying the bill or you are facing an energy crisis, with a shut off notice, you may be able to get help through LIHEAP. This is a program that is funded by the federal government. You may need to apply each season that you need the help. If you are approved they will send the money assistance directly to the energy provider on your behalf. They will also help with weatherization services, which can help reduce your monthly energy bills, by making the home more energy efficient. To get more information about the program and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – This organization helps people in the community who are struggling financially. They can help with food, shelter, clothing, and more. Some places offer help paying for small bills. They are a faith-based organization, but they do not require you to be religious to receive help. Their services are open to anyone in the community who needs them. To find a location near you to contact and inquire about assistance, click here.
Catholic Charities – This organization is faith-based and will provide people with a range helpful services. They have locations around the state. You can contact one near you to inquire about getting assistance. They may be able to help you at that location, or provide you with a referral to a place that can help meet your needs. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Lifeline and Link-Up – Those who need help paying for a phone bill each month, or for phone hookup services, may qualify for Lifeline or Link-Up. Both programs will help ensure that people have a phone and that they get help with hooking it up and paying the monthly bill. To qualify, you have to have a low income. To get more information about the program and apply for assistance, click here.
