Figuring out how to pay for college can be tough, and sometimes students need help to afford basic things like food. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP (also known as EBT), can provide that help. If you’re an out-of-state student going to college in Illinois, you might be wondering if you can get EBT benefits there. Let’s break down the rules and see what’s what.
Eligibility Basics: Does Residency Matter?
The main thing to know is that to get EBT in Illinois, you generally need to be a resident of Illinois. Being a college student complicates things a little, because your “home” might not be considered Illinois. That’s because, for SNAP, your home is usually where you intend to live permanently. If you only moved to Illinois to go to school and plan to return to your home state after graduation, it might make it harder to qualify.
However, there are some situations where even out-of-state students might be able to get help. The rules can be tricky, and depend on your specific situation and Illinois’s specific rules. To know for sure, you’d need to apply and the state would determine your eligibility. Keep reading to find out what else you need to know!
Here’s what the state looks at to determine residency:
- Where you live.
- Where you work.
- If you pay taxes in Illinois.
There’s also the issue of how long you plan to stay in Illinois.
Student Exemptions: Are You An Eligible Student?
SNAP has special rules for college students. Basically, a college student isn’t always eligible for SNAP. There are several exceptions that can make a student eligible, even if they are generally not. For example, if you meet certain work requirements, you might qualify. Also, if you’re already receiving other public assistance benefits, like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), you are most likely exempt from the student rule.
There are several ways a student could be exempt from the general student rule, making them eligible for SNAP. Consider this list of different exemptions:
- You are employed for a minimum of 20 hours per week.
- You participate in a state or federally financed work study program.
- You are responsible for the care of a dependent child under the age of six.
- You are receiving TANF benefits.
If you meet any of these criteria, you may be considered an eligible student. Keep in mind that this is separate from the residency requirement we talked about earlier. You still have to meet the residency requirements to get SNAP benefits in Illinois.
So, in short, Can An Out Of State College Student Get EBT In Illinois? It depends on whether they meet the student exemptions and also meet the residency requirements.
Financial Considerations: Income and Resources
Even if you’re a resident and meet the student exemptions, you also need to meet certain financial requirements to qualify for SNAP. This means your income and resources (like money in the bank or other assets) can’t be above a certain amount. The income and resource limits change depending on the size of your household. The amount of income and resources allowed is set by the state and federal government.
Your income is everything you earn, including wages, salaries, and any other money you receive. This includes financial aid, like student loans and grants. However, certain types of financial aid might not be counted as income. Resource limits refer to the amount of money and assets you can have to qualify for SNAP. These include items like a savings account or stocks.
Here is an example of the 2024 monthly gross income limits for Illinois (this may change, so always check the current rules):
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,578 |
| 2 | $2,137 |
| 3 | $2,696 |
This table is only an example, and the actual limits may be different. Always check the official Illinois SNAP website for the most up-to-date information. If you are over these limits, you may not be eligible.
How to Apply: The Application Process
If you think you might be eligible, the next step is to apply for EBT. In Illinois, you can apply online through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) website. You can also apply in person at a local IDHS office, or by mail. The application asks for information about your income, resources, living situation, and other relevant details.
You’ll need to provide documentation to support your application. This might include proof of residency (like a lease or utility bill), proof of income (pay stubs or bank statements), and information about your school enrollment. Be prepared to answer questions about your college attendance and whether you meet any student exemptions. The application process can take some time, so be patient!
- Gather your documents.
- Find the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) website.
- Fill out the application.
- Submit the application and the documents requested.
After you apply, your application will be reviewed, and you’ll be notified of the decision. If you are approved, you’ll receive an EBT card, which works like a debit card to purchase food. The EBT card is good at most grocery stores.
Conclusion: Is It Possible?
So, Can An Out Of State College Student Get EBT In Illinois? It’s not a simple “yes” or “no.” It really depends on the individual situation. An out-of-state student will need to meet both the residency requirements and the student exemptions, and also fall below income and resource limits. If you’re an out-of-state student in Illinois and need help with food, the best thing to do is to apply and find out if you qualify! The IDHS website and local offices are there to provide you with the needed information and support.