Illinois Sending $400 Payments To Eligible SNAP Households

The state of Illinois is launching a new program called FRESH to help residents who lost SNAP food benefits.

Here's what you need to know. Eligible households will receive a one-time $400 payment for each qualifying member of the home.

READ MORE: Illinois SNAP Benefit Changes: What You Need to Know

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Illinois Launches FRESH Program: $400 Relief for Lost SNAP Benefits

About 100,000 Illinois residents are expected to be paid during the initial rollout, with payments going out August 1 and getting loaded directly onto Illinois Link cards with no application or paperwork required.

The state instituted this program for folks who lost SNAP assistance because of expanded federal work requirements, setting aside $70 million, with additional monthly payments going out until the funds run out.

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No Application Required: Automatic Payments Roll Out August 1

State officials say nearly 150,000 Illinois residents lost SNAP benefits after the federal changes, though many have since regained eligibility, and if you lost SNAP benefits between May 1 and the upcoming August 1, you should start receiving money on August 1.

Going forward, eligible households will start to receive payments after the 16th of the month in which they lose SNAP benefits.

READ MORE: Illinois Food Banks Face Unprecedented Demand as Need Soars

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Crucial Support for Illinois Families Facing Food Insecurity

Food insecurity in Illinois is rampant, and thousands of families struggle daily to put food on the table. This one-time payment could help provide a bit of support for those who have lost federal food assistance, and since the payouts are automatic, it's a stress-free way to receive added funds.