ILLINOIS — A number of important changes to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) policies took effect in 2025 — and they’re already impacting thousands of Illinois residents. If you’re currently receiving food stamp benefits or planning to apply this year, it’s crucial to understand how the rules have shifted.
From work requirements for adults to stricter recertification timelines and adjustments in college student eligibility, here’s a breakdown of what’s new in 2025.
Work Requirements Return for Certain Adults
As of January 1, 2025, Illinois fully reinstated ABAWD work requirements for certain SNAP recipients. This rule affects Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents — specifically those who are:
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Age 18–49
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Not pregnant
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Not living with children
These individuals must meet one of the following to continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond three months in a 36-month period:
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Work at least 20 hours per week (paid or unpaid)
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Participate in a state-approved employment training program
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Be enrolled in volunteer service that meets the hourly requirement
Exemptions still apply for:
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Veterans
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Individuals with disabilities
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Homeless persons
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Caregivers of incapacitated adults
For more information, visit the IDHS ABAWD resource page.
SNAP Eligibility for College Students Tightens
Temporary pandemic-era provisions that allowed many college students to receive food stamps expired at the end of 2024. As a result, most full-time students must now meet pre-COVID rules to qualify, including:
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Working at least 20 hours per week, or
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Caring for a dependent child, or
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Participating in a state-recognized work-study program
Students attending community colleges may qualify more easily if they’re in career or technical programs, but proof of enrollment is now strictly required.
Need help determining eligibility? Community groups like Erie Neighborhood House and Greater Chicago Food Depository provide application support.
Recertification and Benefit Review Schedules Are Back on Track
IDHS has fully resumed mandatory SNAP redeterminations in 2025. All recipients must now recertify benefits on time to avoid termination. This includes:
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Annual renewal for most households
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Six-month reviews for certain income brackets or risk groups
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Timely reporting of income, address, or household changes
If a household misses its recertification deadline, benefits can be cut off without warning, even if they re-qualify later. Notices are usually sent by mail or email via the ABE system.
To avoid delays or benefit interruptions:
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Log in to ABE.illinois.gov regularly
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Set up text/email alerts
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Use help from local DHS offices or SNAP partners to stay on track
Asset Limits and Income Thresholds Adjusted
In April 2025, IDHS updated its income eligibility guidelines, affecting both new applicants and current recipients.
Current limits (gross income):
| Household Size | Monthly Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 |
| 2 | $2,137 |
| 3 | $2,694 |
| 4 | $3,250 |
Households with seniors or disabled members may qualify with higher net income and fewer asset restrictions, but must still report changes.
What Stayed the Same in 2025?
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SNAP benefits are still issued monthly based on case number, between the 1st–10th.
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Illinois Link Card system remains in place.
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Residents can apply anytime through ABE.illinois.gov or by visiting a DHS office.
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Fresh EBT (Providers) app is still a reliable tool to check balances and get alerts.
Have SNAP Rule Changes Affected You in 2025?
Let us know how these updates have impacted your family — whether it’s recertification confusion, student eligibility issues, or trouble meeting new work requirements. Share your story at chicagosuburbanfamily.com and help others in the same boat.
