TANF | ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES (IDHS) - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

2000 North Lewis Avenue, Waukegan, IL 60087

Eligibility

To qualify for TANF, a person must: - Be pregnant or have a child under age 19 who lives with them. A child who is 18 must be a full-time high school student. A pregnant woman (and her husband, if he lives with her) may qualify for help, even if they don't have any other children. - Be a resident of Illinois - Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements - Develop a plan for becoming self-sufficient and follow it

Hours

Service Hours Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

847-263-7778

Voice - Primary Program Phone, Waukegan Office

https://www.dhs.state.il.us

Languages

Spanish

Application process

Call or visit during program hours, or apply online at www.abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/ Documents Required: - Varies on an individual basis; contact for details

Fees

No fee

Service area

Lake County, IL

Description

Provides temporary financial assistance for pregnant women and families with dependent child/children. Provides financial assistance to help pay for food, shelter, utilities, and expenses. Benefits are issued on an Illinois Link Card. Also offers screenings and referrals for substance use, mental health, and domestic violence. Offers transitional services for clients, including: - GED preparation - Postsecondary education - Vocational rehabilitation - Classes in basic English - Child care assistance - Work stipends - Job retention services A person who receives TANF may also be eligible for medical assistance and SNAP benefits.

Date of Last Formal Update

07/24/2025

What's Here

TANF

Providing organization

ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Government agency providing aide and resources to residents of Illinois.