Pebt Illinois

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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27-12-2024

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The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (PEBT) program provided crucial food assistance to millions of children nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Illinois, the program operated under the guidance of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), aiming to alleviate food insecurity exacerbated by school closures and economic disruption. This guide provides an overview of the PEBT program in Illinois, covering key aspects and addressing common questions.

Understanding PEBT in Illinois

PEBT offered supplemental food benefits to eligible children who received free or reduced-price meals at school. These benefits were loaded onto existing LINK cards or issued as new cards, allowing families to purchase groceries. Eligibility was determined based on the child's participation in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the school's closure or operational limitations due to COVID-19.

Key Eligibility Criteria

• Participation in NSLP: Children had to be enrolled in a school participating in the NSLP and receiving free or reduced-price meals.
• School Closure or Operational Limitations: The child's school must have experienced closures or significant disruptions due to the pandemic, impacting their access to regular school meals.
• Residency in Illinois: The child and their family had to be Illinois residents.

How PEBT Benefits Were Distributed

PEBT benefits were typically issued on a monthly basis, reflecting the number of days schools were closed or operating with limited meal services. The amount of benefits varied depending on factors like the child's grade level and the duration of school closures. Families received notifications regarding benefit issuance and could check their balance online through the IDHS website.

Managing Your PEBT Benefits

Benefit management was largely the same as managing regular LINK benefits. Families could use their PEBT benefits at authorized retailers to purchase eligible food items. The IDHS provided resources and support for managing benefits, including online account access and customer service assistance.

PEBT Program Timeline and Conclusion

The PEBT program in Illinois operated throughout the pandemic, adapting to evolving circumstances and guidelines. While the program has concluded, its impact on food security for vulnerable Illinois families remains significant. Families who believe they may have been eligible for PEBT but did not receive benefits should contact the IDHS for further information. The IDHS website remains a valuable resource for accessing details on past PEBT distributions and related food assistance programs currently available.