TANF | ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES (IDHS) - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
2000 North Lewis Avenue, Waukegan, IL 60087
Eligibility
To qualify for TANF, a person must:
- Be pregnant or have a child under age 19 who lives with them. A child who is 18 must be a full-time high school student. A pregnant woman (and her husband, if he lives with her) may qualify for help, even if they don't have any other children.
- Be a resident of Illinois
- Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements
- Develop a plan for becoming self-sufficient and follow it
Hours
Service Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
847-263-7778
Voice·
Primary Program Phone, Waukegan Office
866-322-3172
Voice·
TTY Waukegan Office
800-843-6154
Voice·
IDHS Help Line
Websitedhs.state.il.us
Languages
Spanish
Application process
Call or visit during program hours, or apply online at www.abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/
Documents Required:
- Varies on an individual basis; contact for details
Fees
No fee
Service area
Lake County, IL
Provides temporary financial assistance for pregnant women and families with dependent child/children. Provides financial assistance to help pay for food, shelter, utilities, and expenses. Benefits are issued on an Illinois Link Card. Also offers screenings and referrals for substance use, mental health, and domestic violence.
Offers transitional services for clients, including:
- GED preparation
- Postsecondary education
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Classes in basic English
- Child care assistance
- Work stipends
- Job retention services
Date of Last Formal Update
07/24/2025
Data provided by
Lake County 211
What's Here
Providing organization
ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Government agency providing aide and resources to residents of Illinois.