Illinois SNAP Work Requirement

May 12, 2026

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Starting in early 2026, able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 64 who do not have dependents under the age of 14 must meet new monthly work or volunteer requirements in order to continue receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. 

According to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), qualifying activities may include one or a combination of the following:

  1. Paid or unpaid work
  2. Participation in an approved work or training program
  3. Vocational training or work-based learning activities
  4. Self-initiated volunteering or community service with any nonprofit or community organization
  5. A combination of qualifying activities totaling 80 hours per month

If you’re looking to meet SNAP requirements in and around Downers Grove, it’s best to contact community organizations directly for volunteer opportunities and community support services. Some of the community organizations are listed here:

Downers Grove Area FISH

4341 Saratoga Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515

Phone: (630) 964-7776

Sharing Connections

5111 Chase Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515

Phone: (630) 971-0565


West Suburban Community Pantry

6809 Hobson Valley Drive, Suite 118, Woodridge, IL 60517

Phone: (630) 512-9921


People's Resource Center

201 S. Naperville Road, Wheaton, IL 60187

Phone: (630) 682-5402


DuPage PADS

601 West Liberty Drive, Wheaton, IL 60187

Phone: (630) 682-3846



Additional information, including eligibility details, exemptions, and screening tools, is available through 

Illinois Department of Human Services SNAP Work Requirements.