Illinois SNAP Calculator.

For FY 2026, the maximum monthly EBT allotment is $298 for 1 person, $546 for 2 people, $785 for 3 people, and up to $1,789 for an 8-person household. Your final approved allotment depends on your net income after allowable deductions. Use our free Illinois SNAP calculator above to estimate your maximum potential monthly payout.

Illinois uses Expanded Categorical Eligibility. The gross income limit is 165% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for most households, and 200% FPL if your household includes an elderly member (60+) or a person with a disability.

The 2025 OBBB Act introduced stricter work requirements. Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-50 must work or volunteer at least 80 hours per month. Additionally, internet costs can no longer be deducted as a shelter expense.

If you pay separately for heating or air conditioning, Illinois automatically applies a $546 Standard Utility Allowance (SUA) deduction to your SNAP calculation, significantly lowering your net income and boosting your benefit amount.

Yes, Costco warehouses in Illinois accept EBT cards for approved groceries. However, EBT cannot be used at the Costco Food Court for hot, ready-to-eat meals, nor can it be used for gas, alcohol, or household items. Always separate your non-eligible items before checkout to avoid transaction holds.

Many recipients are surprised to learn that SNAP EBT in Illinois can be used to purchase seeds and food-producing plants to grow your own food. You can also buy cold deli items, bakery items, energy drinks (with a nutrition facts label), and gift baskets (if the food value is over 50%).