Illinois Receives $4.1 Million Bonus for Effective Stewardship of Taxpayer Dollars

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Secretary Michelle R.B. Saddler today announced that the state was awarded a $4.1 million bonus for its effective administration of the Supplemental Food and Nutrition Program (SNAP).  Illinois was recognized for its accuracy rate of 98.3 percent, which ranked sixth in the nation in fiscal year 2012.

“Our continued accuracy in the SNAP program is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our case workers and administrators,” said Secretary Saddler.  “Despite hefty caseloads, IDHS caseworkers have demonstrated a culture of caring that has paid off not only for the state, but for each individual that we serve.”

In May, 2,048,898 people received SNAP benefits.  SNAP helps low-income people and families buy the food they need for good health.  The program is funded and managed by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the United States Department of Agriculture.  IDHS administers the program in Illinois.

For more information about SNAP, including eligibility requirements and applications, visit the IDHS website at www.dhs.state.il.us.