Health & Benefits
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General Assistance

General Assistance (GA) helps eligible people meet their basic living requirements if they do not qualify for other public benefits. Learn more here.

Learn your rights (2 resources)
The low income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP)
The Illinois Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program helps pay heating costs for low-income households.
Guide
Understanding general assistance
Describes General Assistance, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Guide
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Other resources for the public (16 resources)
The low income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP)
The Illinois Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program helps pay heating costs for low-income households.
Guide
Applying for general assistance
Steps to get General Assistance through your local township and how long they have to approve or deny the application.
How-To
Understanding general assistance
Describes General Assistance, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
Guide
Am I eligible for general assistance?
Describes the requirements to qualify for General Assistance programs
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Lawyer resources (3 resources)
How to link your 'manage my case' account in Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE)
Here is a step-by-step guide to linking your Manage My Case account on the Application for Benefits Eligibility website.
Video
Helping clients with General Assistance
Information for lawyers about the General Assistance program in Chicago and the rest of Illinois.
Text article
Locate a notice of decision in Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE)
A notice of decision is the Illinois Department of Human Services’ response to your application for benefits. Follow this step-by-step guide to find your notice of decision
Video
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