Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Illinois
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated: August 2025
Practical, state-specific help for Illinois residents age 60+ living with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. Every program and fact below links to an official source so you can verify details and apply with confidence.
Quick Help Box (keep this handy)
- Emergencies: Call 911
- Mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide: Call or text 988, or use chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
- Suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of an older adult (60+): Illinois Adult Protective Services Hotline 1-866-800-1409 (TTY 1-888-206-1327) via the Illinois Department on Aging
- Need immediate local help (shelter, food, utility shutoff help): Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Illinois to connect with nearby services
- Not sure where to start: Illinois Department on Aging Senior HelpLine 1-800-252-8966 (TTY 1-888-206-1327)
- Apply online for SNAP (food), Medicaid, cash assistance, and more: Illinois ABE (Application for Benefits Eligibility)
Reality check: Some programs have waitlists, strict medical or financial eligibility, and paperwork. If you get stuck, call your local Area Agency on Aging or the Senior HelpLine. They can connect you to benefits counselors who will walk you through forms and appeals.
Who this guide is for and how to use it
- Seniors (60+) with disabilities living in Illinois, including those on Medicare, Medicaid, or both
- Family caregivers and friends helping a loved one
- People preparing to age in place or comparing housing and care options
How to use:
- Start with emergency and urgent help if needed; 2) review the “Eligibility Snapshot” table; 3) go to the sections that match your needs (money, food, healthcare, housing, utilities, transportation); 4) check the FAQs at the end; 5) contact your local Area Agency on Aging for one-on-one help.
Eligibility Snapshot: common pathways for Illinois seniors with disabilities
These are general guides. Always confirm the current rules on the linked official sites before applying.
| Program | Who It Helps | Key Points | Where to Learn/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (Medical Assistance) | Low-income seniors and people with disabilities | Covers doctor/hospital care; can include long-term services and supports at home or in facilities; spenddown possible for some | Illinois HFS Medical Programs and apply at ABE |
| Medicare + Extra Help | Age 65+ or disabled (SSDI), U.S. work history | Extra Help can reduce prescription costs; Medicare Savings Programs can pay Part B premium if eligible | Medicare.gov and SSA Extra Help |
| SNAP with Elderly Simplified Application (ESAP) | 60+ or disabled with limited income | Longer certification period and simpler reporting for many seniors | Illinois DHS SNAP and apply at ABE |
| AABD Cash/Medical | Aged, Blind, or Disabled | State cash assistance and Medicaid for those who meet disability/age criteria | IDHS AABD and apply at ABE |
| Community Care Program (CCP) | Illinoisans 60+ at risk of nursing home placement | In-home services, adult day, emergency home response systems | Illinois Department on Aging CCP |
| Supportive Living Program (SLP) | 65+ or adults 22–64 with disabilities | Medicaid-supported alternative to nursing homes in licensed supportive living facilities | HFS Supportive Living Program |
| RTA Reduced Fare/Ride Free (via Benefit Access) | Seniors and people with disabilities in the RTA region (Chicago metro) | Discounted or free transit on CTA, Metra, Pace; “Ride Free” requires Benefit Access eligibility | RTA Fare Programs and Benefit Access Program |
| LIHEAP/PIPP | Households with low income | Help with heating/electric bills; PIPP sets affordable monthly payments | Help Illinois Families (LIHEAP/PIPP) |
Sources: Illinois HFS (Medicaid), ABE, Illinois Department on Aging (CCP, Benefit Access), RTA, IDHS SNAP, Help Illinois Families.
Money, Food, and Daily Expenses
Social Security Disability and SSI
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people with work history who meet SSA’s disability rules. SSDI can lead to Medicare after 24 months on SSDI. Learn more or apply at Social Security Disability Benefits.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For older adults (65+) or people with disabilities who have low income and limited resources. SSI often pairs with Medicaid. Learn more at SSI.
- Illinois AABD Cash: For older adults, blind, or disabled with very low income and assets, Illinois may provide AABD cash assistance and related Medicaid. See IDHS AABD and apply through ABE.
Tips
- If you get a denial from SSA, appeal by the deadline on your notice; many approvals happen on appeal. Free help may be available from legal aid groups in Illinois (see Legal Help section).
Food assistance: SNAP with ESAP and senior meals
- SNAP (food stamps): Illinois uses the Elderly Simplified Application Project (ESAP) for many seniors to make applying and reporting easier. Start at Illinois DHS SNAP and apply via ABE.
- Senior meals: The Illinois Department on Aging funds home-delivered and congregate (group) meals under the Older Americans Act. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging via the Illinois Department on Aging or call the Senior HelpLine for a meal provider referral.
- Farmers’ market produce: The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program gives eligible seniors coupons for fresh fruits and vegetables in season. Check availability through the Illinois Department on Aging or ask your Area Agency on Aging.
Reality check: SNAP rules include income and household-size limits and sometimes deductions for medical costs. If your out-of-pocket medical expenses are high, tell your caseworker—those costs can increase your SNAP benefit. If transportation is a barrier, ask your AAA about meal delivery options.
Property tax relief and fee discounts
- Benefit Access Program (BAP): If you meet age/disability and income rules, you may qualify for:
- Free RTA rides on CTA/Metra/Pace (Ride Free Permit)
- Discounted license plate sticker fee
Apply and check current income limits at the Illinois Department on Aging Benefit Access Program. You’ll need a valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID.
- Property tax relief for older adults and people with disabilities:
- Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption
- Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption
- Persons with Disabilities Homestead Exemption
- Disabled Veterans’ Standard Homestead Exemption
- Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program
See program descriptions and forms through the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) Property Tax Relief for Individuals, and contact your county assessor for local applications.
Warning: Exemptions and deferrals vary by county and change over time. Always check your county assessor’s website or office before you file.
Healthcare, Long-Term Care, and Help at Home
Medicare help and counseling
- Medicare basics: Most seniors have Medicare. If you also have limited income, check:
- Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for prescription costs at SSA Extra Help
- Medicare Savings Programs via Illinois HFS to help with Part B premiums (apply at ABE)
- Free, unbiased counseling: Illinois’ Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) provides one-on-one help comparing Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans. Find SHIP counseling via the Illinois Department of Insurance SHIP.
Tip: Bring your Medicare card, list of medicines, and doctors to SHIP appointments to get the best comparison.
Medicaid (Medical Assistance) for seniors and people with disabilities
- What Medicaid covers: Doctor/hospital services, prescriptions, durable medical equipment, preventive care, and, when eligible, long-term services and supports at home or in a facility. Learn more at Illinois HFS Medical Programs.
- How to apply: Use ABE to apply for Medical Assistance. If approved, you will receive a medical card or managed care plan information.
- Spenddown: If your income is above limits, a spenddown may help you qualify by offsetting excess income with medical expenses. Discuss with HFS or a benefits counselor.
- Working while disabled: Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) allows certain working Illinoisans with disabilities to keep Medicaid coverage. Learn more via Illinois HFS HBWD.
At-home care, adult day, and emergency response
The main Illinois programs that help older adults and people with disabilities remain at home:
| Program | Who It Serves | What It Provides | Where to Learn/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Care Program (CCP) | Illinoisans 60+ at risk of nursing facility placement | In-home help (housekeeping, personal care), adult day service, emergency home response systems, care coordination | Illinois Department on Aging CCP (assessment via local Care Coordination Unit) |
| Home Services Program (HSP, IDHS-DRS) | People with significant disabilities (typically under 60 at application; some older adults may qualify based on disability history and needs) | Personal assistants, home modifications, assistive equipment, and other supports to avoid institutionalization | IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services Home Services Program |
| Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Residents of nursing homes and other facilities (and families) | Free advocacy to resolve care, rights, and discharge issues | Illinois Department on Aging Long-Term Care Ombudsman |
Note: Eligibility for CCP and HSP involves both financial and functional (care-need) assessments. There may be waitlists. Start early and ask your assessor what documentation to prepare.
Supportive Living Program (SLP)
- What it is: A Medicaid-supported alternative to nursing homes in licensed supportive living facilities across Illinois. Residents get apartment-style housing with meals, housekeeping, personal care, and activities. Unlike nursing homes, SLP focuses on a social model of care while still providing needed support.
- Who qualifies: Adults 65+ or adults 22–64 with disabilities who meet financial and functional criteria.
- Learn more and find facilities: Illinois HFS Supportive Living Program.
Reality check: SLPs may have limited Medicaid units. If you plan to “spend down” to Medicaid after moving in, get that in writing beforehand and talk with the facility and a counselor about timing and risks.
Housing, Accessibility, and Safety
| Resource | What It Does | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| HUD Resource Locator | Find subsidized apartments, public housing agencies, and HUD-approved counselors | Use HUD’s Resource Locator |
| Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Home Accessibility Program (HAP) | Grants through local partners for ramps, bathroom modifications, and accessibility improvements | See IHDA Home Accessibility Program |
| Supportive Living (SLP) | See the Healthcare section above | Illinois HFS SLP |
| Home Weatherization | Free improvements that reduce energy costs and improve safety | Ask through Help Illinois Families (often paired with LIHEAP) |
| Homelessness Services | Prevention funds, shelter, and housing navigation | Start with 211 Illinois or IDHS Homeless Services |
| Fair Housing and Disability Rights | Help with housing discrimination based on disability, source of income, etc. | U.S. HUD Fair Housing and the Illinois Department of Human Rights |
Safety tip: If you use an oxygen tank, mobility device, or stair lift, ask your local fire department for a free home safety check. Also request a “lockbox” or address flag for emergency responders if available in your town.
Transportation and Mobility
| Program | Region | Benefit | Where to Learn/Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTA Reduced Fare Permit | Northeastern IL (CTA, Metra, Pace service area) | Reduced transit fares for seniors and people with disabilities | RTA Reduced Fare Programs |
| Ride Free (Benefit Access) | RTA region | Free rides for eligible seniors/people with disabilities enrolled in Benefit Access | RTA Ride Free Program and Benefit Access Program |
| ADA Paratransit (Pace) | RTA region | Door-to-door service for riders who cannot use fixed-route buses/trains due to disability | Pace ADA Paratransit |
| Medically Necessary Transportation | Statewide | For Medicaid enrollees, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to covered appointments | Ask your Medicaid plan or see HFS Medical Transportation |
| Disabled Parking Placards/Plates | Statewide | Accessible parking privileges | Illinois Secretary of State – Persons with Disabilities Parking Placards/Plates |
Tip: Keep your RTA or paratransit ID with you. If you change addresses, update your card. For downstate transit (outside the RTA area), call your county or 2-1-1 to find your local provider.
Utilities, Internet/Phone, and Protections
- LIHEAP and PIPP: Help Illinois Families is the statewide entry point for utility bill help (heating, electric). The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) sets an affordable payment and can reduce arrears over time. Apply at Help Illinois Families.
- Water bills: Some local water assistance programs exist (e.g., City of Chicago Utility Billing Relief). Check your city or call 2-1-1 for local options.
- Lifeline (phone/internet discount): The FCC’s Lifeline program offers a monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible households. Learn more and apply at Lifeline Support.
- Utility shutoff rules: The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) sets consumer protections for regulated utilities. If you get a shutoff notice, call your utility right away and contact the ICC Consumer Services Division for help. See ICC Consumer Services.
Reality check: Assistance opens and closes based on funding and seasons. Apply early (fall) for winter heating help. Save all disconnection notices, account numbers, and proof of income before you call.
Assistive Technology, Home Mods, and Independent Living
- Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP): Free device demonstrations and loans, reutilization (refurbished equipment), home accessibility assessments, and adaptive technology training. Visit IATP.
- Centers for Independent Living (CILs): Peer-led organizations helping with skills training, advocacy, and transitions. Find your local CIL via IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services.
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME): Medicare, Medicaid, and VA may cover DME when medically necessary and prescribed. Always ask your plan about prior authorization.
Legal Help, Rights, and Consumer Protection
- Adult Protective Services (APS): Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults age 60+ or adults with disabilities 18–59. Call 1-866-800-1409 (TTY 1-888-206-1327). Learn more at the Illinois Department on Aging.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Free help for residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. See the Ombudsman Program at the Illinois Department on Aging.
- Protection & Advocacy for people with disabilities: Equip for Equality provides legal advocacy, information, and assistance on disability rights. Visit Equip for Equality.
- Consumer fraud and scams: The Illinois Attorney General’s Office has consumer protection resources for older adults. See the Illinois Attorney General Consumer Protection.
If you receive a notice cutting off benefits or a denial you think is wrong, contact legal aid immediately for appeal deadlines. See the “By Region” section below for legal aid organizations.
Inclusive and Group-Specific Support
Veteran seniors with disabilities
- VA health care and disability benefits: Apply and manage benefits at VA.gov or call your local VA outpatient clinic. For independent, in-person help, connect with the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) Veteran Service Officers who can file claims at no cost.
- VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound: May increase your VA pension if you need help with daily activities or are housebound. See VA Pension with Aid and Attendance.
- Illinois Veterans’ Homes: Long-term care facilities in several Illinois locations. See Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veterans Homes.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Tip: Bring your DD-214 (discharge papers) to your IDVA appointment.
LGBTQ+ seniors
- Inclusive senior services and community: Center on Halsted in Chicago offers programs for LGBTQ+ older adults, support groups, and connections to friendly providers. Visit Center on Halsted.
- General legal and benefits help: SHIP counselors, Area Agencies on Aging, and legal aid all serve LGBTQ+ seniors. If you experience discrimination, contact the Illinois Department of Human Rights.
Reality check: You have the right to be free from discrimination in housing, health care, and public accommodations in Illinois. Document dates, names, and what happened, and file timely complaints with IDHR or HUD as appropriate.
Tribal elders and Native seniors living in Illinois
Illinois has Native communities living statewide, including in the Chicago area. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe:
- Indian Health Service (IHS) and Urban Indian Health: Learn about services and eligibility at IHS.gov. Coverage and Purchased/Referred Care eligibility varies by service area and county; contact IHS or your tribe for details.
- Medicare/Medicaid/VA: You can and should use these alongside IHS whenever eligible. Apply via ABE (Medicaid), Medicare.gov, or VA.gov.
If you live in Chicago or another urban area, ask your Area Agency on Aging for referrals to culturally responsive providers and community groups serving Native elders.
Rural seniors and families with limited access
- Transportation: Call 2-1-1 to find your county’s dial-a-ride or demand-response transit. Ask about Medicaid NEMT through your plan for medical appointments.
- Telehealth: Medicare and Illinois Medicaid cover many telehealth services. Ask your doctor or plan for options and technical help.
- Home-delivered meals and wellness checks: Your Area Agency on Aging can connect you to providers that serve rural routes.
Tip: Spotty cell or internet? Ask your library about free Wi‑Fi, printed forms, and scanning. Many libraries also host SHIP counselors.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Build your folder
- Photo ID, Social Security number, proof of address
- Proof of income (SSA award letter, pension stubs), bank statements, rent/mortgage, utility bills
- Medical bills and prescriptions (for SNAP medical deductions and spenddown)
- VA/DD-214 if veteran
- Apply online where possible
- ABE for Medicaid, SNAP, and cash assistance
- Benefit Access Program for free rides and license plate discount
- Social Security for SSI/SSDI and Extra Help
- RTA for Reduced Fare/ Ride Free
- Get unbiased help
- Senior HelpLine: 1-800-252-8966 (TTY 1-888-206-1327) at the Illinois Department on Aging
- SHIP (Medicare counseling) via the Illinois Department of Insurance SHIP
- 2-1-1 for local navigators and application assistance
- After you apply
- Save copies of every page and confirmation number
- Watch your mail for interview notices or requests for more information
- If you’re denied or your benefits are cut, appeal by the deadline and call legal aid
Resources by Region (find local help faster)
Start here: Find your local Area Agency on Aging via the Illinois Department on Aging and ask for benefits counseling, meal programs, caregiver support, and CCP assessments.
- City of Chicago
- Chicago Department of Family & Support Services, Senior Services (the Area Agency on Aging for city residents): City of Chicago DFSS Senior Services
- Legal: Legal Aid Chicago
- Transportation: CTA, Metra, Pace via RTA Fare Programs; Chicago ADA Paratransit via Pace
- Suburban Cook County and Collar Counties
- Area Agency on Aging: AgeOptions (suburban Cook) and AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois (collar counties)
- Legal: Prairie State Legal Services (most collar counties)
- Transit: RTA Reduced Fare and ADA Paratransit
- Northern and North-Central Illinois
- Area Agencies on Aging and services: Use the Illinois Department on Aging locator
- Legal: Prairie State Legal Services
- Housing: HUD Resource Locator and your county housing authority
- Central and Western Illinois
- Area Agencies on Aging: Use the state locator
- Legal: Prairie State Legal Services and Land of Lincoln Legal Aid (varies by county)
- Transit: Call 2‑1‑1 for downstate providers
- Southern Illinois
- Area Agencies on Aging and providers: Use the state locator
- Legal: Land of Lincoln Legal Aid
- Utilities: Help Illinois Families for LIHEAP/PIPP
Disability rights and advocacy statewide: Equip for Equality (Protection & Advocacy for people with disabilities).
Key Contacts and Hotlines
| Help | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Protective Services | 1-866-800-1409 (TTY 1-888-206-1327) | Abuse, neglect, exploitation of older adults and adults with disabilities |
| Senior HelpLine (IDoA) | 1-800-252-8966 (TTY 1-888-206-1327) | Benefits info, local referrals, caregiver help |
| 2‑1‑1 Illinois | 211Illinois.org | Local food, shelter, utility help |
| Medicare counseling (SHIP) | Illinois Department of Insurance SHIP | Free, unbiased Medicare help |
| Apply for benefits (ABE) | abe.illinois.gov | Medicaid, SNAP, AABD, and more |
| LIHEAP/PIPP | Help Illinois Families | Utility bill assistance |
| RTA Fare Programs | RTA Fare Programs | Reduced Fare and Ride Free |
| Illinois HFS (Medicaid) | HFS Medical Programs | Program details and managed care info |
| Social Security | ssa.gov | SSI/SSDI, Extra Help |
| Veterans | VA.gov and Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs | VA benefits and state help |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: I’m 68 and on SSDI/Medicare. Can I also get Medicaid?
- Maybe. If your income and assets are within limits, you can qualify for Medicaid as secondary coverage. Apply at ABE. If you’re over income, ask about a spenddown. See Illinois HFS Medical Programs.
Q2: What’s the difference between the Community Care Program (CCP) and the Home Services Program (HSP)?
- CCP (IDoA) serves Illinoisans 60+ at risk of nursing facility placement, offering in-home help, adult day, and emergency response systems. HSP (IDHS-DRS) serves people with significant disabilities and can include personal assistants, home mods, and equipment. Which program fits depends on age at application, disability history, and needs. See CCP and IDHS DRS.
Q3: How do I get free or reduced transit in the Chicago area?
- Get an RTA Reduced Fare Permit if you’re a senior or have a qualifying disability. If you qualify for the Benefit Access Program, you may get Ride Free. See RTA Fare Programs and the Benefit Access Program.
Q4: Can I get help paying my electric or gas bill?
- Yes. LIHEAP and PIPP provide utility help. Apply at Help Illinois Families. If you receive a disconnection notice, also call your utility and contact the Illinois Commerce Commission Consumer Services for help with disputes and payment plans.
Q5: Are there programs for home modifications like ramps or grab bars?
- Yes. The IHDA Home Accessibility Program funds local agencies that install ramps and bathroom modifications. Contact IATP for device demos and home accessibility assessments. See IHDA HAP and IATP.
Q6: Where can I get help comparing Medicare plans?
- Illinois’ SHIP provides free counseling. Bring your current plan card and medications list. Find help via the Illinois Department of Insurance SHIP.
Q7: I can’t cook or shop anymore. Who delivers meals?
- The Illinois Department on Aging funds home-delivered meals statewide. Call the Senior HelpLine or your Area Agency on Aging for your local provider. See Illinois Department on Aging.
Q8: Do I qualify for the Benefit Access Program?
- It depends on age/disability and income. Rules change periodically. Check current eligibility and apply online at the Illinois Department on Aging Benefit Access Program.
Q9: I’m a veteran. Who can help me file for VA benefits?
- Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veteran Service Officers file claims and appeals at no cost. Find IDVA offices via Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Learn about VA benefits at VA.gov.
Q10: What property tax relief exists for disabled seniors?
- Illinois offers several exemptions (Senior Homestead, Assessment Freeze, Persons with Disabilities, Disabled Veterans) and a deferral program in some situations. See IDOR’s Property Tax Relief resources and contact your county assessor.
Q11: Does Medicaid cover a power wheelchair?
- It can, when medically necessary and prescribed, and after prior authorization. Ask your doctor, DME supplier, and your Medicaid plan. See Illinois HFS Medical Programs.
Q12: How do I report nursing home problems?
- Contact the Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman for resident rights and problem-solving, and the Illinois Department of Public Health for serious health/safety complaints. Start with the Ombudsman via the Illinois Department on Aging.
Q13: I live in a rural area. How do I get to medical appointments?
- Ask your Medicaid plan about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Also call 2‑1‑1 for county transit or dial-a-ride options.
Q14: What if my SNAP or Medicaid case is closed by mistake?
- File an appeal by the deadline on the notice and ask for an expedited review if you have no food or medicine. Call your Area Agency on Aging or legal aid for help, and reapply via ABE if necessary.
Q15: Is there help with phone or internet bills?
- The FCC Lifeline program offers a monthly discount for eligible households. See Lifeline Support. Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has ended new funding; check Lifeline for current options.
Practical Checklists
Apply for ABE benefits
- Create an ABE account
- Select SNAP and/or Medical Assistance (Medicaid), AABD Cash if appropriate
- Upload ID, income, and medical expense documents
- Watch for interview or verification requests
- Keep copies and your case number
Prepare for a home care assessment (CCP or HSP)
- Make a list of daily activities you need help with (bathing, dressing, meals, meds, shopping)
- Have your medication list and doctors’ info ready
- Show any safety issues (stairs, bathroom hazards, recent falls)
- Ask what services are available now and what the wait time may be
Maximize savings
- Apply for Benefit Access (RTA Ride Free, plate discount)
- Apply for LIHEAP/PIPP early in the season
- Ask a SHIP counselor about Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs
Sources and Official Links (selected)
- Apply for benefits in Illinois (ABE): https://abe.illinois.gov
- Illinois Department on Aging (programs, CCP, Benefit Access, APS): https://ilaging.illinois.gov
- Illinois Department of Human Services (SNAP, AABD, DRS/HSP): https://www.dhs.state.il.us
- Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (Medicaid/HBWD/SLP): https://hfs.illinois.gov
- RTA Fare Programs (Reduced Fare and Ride Free): https://www.rtachicago.org/fare-programs
- Help Illinois Families (LIHEAP/PIPP): https://www.helpillinoisfamilies.com
- Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov
- Social Security (SSI/SSDI, Extra Help): https://www.ssa.gov
- VA benefits: https://www.va.gov
- IHDA Home Accessibility Program: https://www.ihda.org/my-community/revitalization-programs/home-accessibility-program/
- FCC Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
- HUD Resource Locator: https://resources.hud.gov
- Illinois Department of Insurance SHIP: https://insurance.illinois.gov (search “SHIP”)
- Illinois Department of Revenue (Property Tax Relief): https://tax.illinois.gov
- Illinois Attorney General (Consumer Protection): https://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov
- Equip for Equality (Protection & Advocacy): https://www.equipforequality.org
- 211 Illinois: https://211illinois.org
Note: For specific program pages within agency sites, use the site’s search function if a direct link above points to the main portal.
Tables at a glance
- Eligibility Snapshot (above)
- Home- and Community-Based Programs (above)
- Housing & Safety Options (above)
- Transportation & Mobility (above)
- Key Contacts & Hotlines (above)
Disclaimer
Program names, eligibility rules, funding levels, income/asset limits, and contact details change. Always verify information on the official agency website or by calling the agency directly before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.
About This Guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
About the Authors