The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently reported that Illinois’ SNAP error rate has climbed to 11.5%. State lawmakers are worried, since states with error rates above 6% will begin losing federal SNAP funding starting in Fiscal Year 2028.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Department of Human Services told the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules this week that the agency is working to reduce errors and comply with new federal requirements.
DHS leaders said they are considering several strategies to prevent taxpayers from absorbing roughly $800 million in costs.
“It is increasing our redetermination schedule from yearly to every six months,” said DHS Policy Development Bureau Chief Sara Bechtold. “So, people will have to renew their benefits every six months. It requires people to submit proof of housing expenses to ensure those expenses are recorded and calculated correctly.”
The department is also recommending adjustments to the cost-of-living allocation rate, but officials noted the federal government has been slow to provide updated guidance.
“Is it fair to say that you all are working, with whatever guidance you have from the feds, to reach these individuals?” asked Rep. Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago). “We’re talking about one of the most basic things you need to sustain life.”
DHS officials said they hold monthly meetings with partners and advocates to share updates about upcoming changes. They emphasized the importance of helping local organizations understand the new requirements so they can clearly communicate them to the people they serve.
“It’s a very expensive benefit,” said Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria). “If we can reduce the error rate in Illinois, we’ll be doing a good service for both groups.”
Officials added that about two-thirds of Illinois’ SNAP errors come from inadvertent client mistakes. Lawmakers said they are open to creating new policies that help reduce those errors.
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