If you are running out of money, and cannot wait the regular 30-day period to get food stamps or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, you should apply for expedited SNAP benefits. Expedited means to speed up the process. If successful, you should have your food stamps 5 days from when you apply. 

You can get expedited SNAP benefits in one of 3 ways:

• Your monthly income and assets are less than your monthly rent or mortgage payment and utility bills,
• You have less than $100 on hand and in the bank. Also, if your gross monthly income is less than $150, or
• You have less than $100 on hand and in the bank. One person in your household must be a migrant who is not expecting to make more than $25 in the next 10 days after you apply for SNAP benefits.

Expedited food stamps are for families who do not already get food stamps. These food stamps are only available for people who file an application for food stamps. If you are approved for expedited food stamps, you will be interviewed on the day you apply or the next day. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) does the interview. IDHS manages food stamps or SNAP in Illinois.