Workers’ Compensation & SNAP Benefits: What You Need to Know

A workplace injury that keeps you from returning to work can make it difficult to earn a living wage and keep food on the table. If you were seriously injured at work, you may be considering applying for government benefits such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as Food Stamps.

To be eligible for SNAP, your household income must not fall above the monthly maximum as determined by the State of Illinois. If eligible, you’ll receive an Illinois Link Card, with which you can access your benefits.

Such a program may sound like a good idea if you’ve been injured at work and are making a lower income than usual. But if you apply for and are granted workers’ compensation payments, you need to understand that those payments do count towards your income when applying for SNAP. Receiving workers’ compensation does not necessarily disqualify you from receiving SNAP benefits, but depending on your household’s total income—including workers’ compensation—your eligibility may be affected.

Working with an Experienced Attorney

When making a workers’ compensation claim, it’s important to work with an experienced, trustworthy attorney who takes the time and care to learn about your case and help you best understand your workers’ compensation payments.

Your attorney can help you understand when you will start receiving payments and how much you will receive, which can help you accurately report your monthly income when applying for SNAP benefits.

Our Attorneys Want the Best for You

Black & Jones Attorneys at Law will fight for you, when you can’t go it alone. We are dedicated to preserving the rights of the injured individuals we serve. We’ll guide you through your workers’ compensation process—from initial application to final settlement and help you best understand your benefits.

Start working with the Black & Jones team today; call (815) 967-9000 or fill out our online form.