Illinois Disability Resources
If you just got hurt on the job, received a diagnosis, or need to understand what Illinois offers for people with disabilities, this page covers the major programs and how to access them.
Workers' Compensation
The Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC) handles claims.
What to do if you're hurt at work:- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
- Seek medical treatment -- you have the right to choose your own doctor.
- File a claim with the IWCC if needed.
- Notify your employer within 45 days.
- File a formal claim within 3 years of the injury or 2 years from last payment, whichever is later.
- Nearly all Illinois employers must carry workers' compensation insurance.
- Employee chooses the treating physician (can choose up to 2 different chains of referral).
- Temporary total disability pays 66 2/3% of average weekly wage.
- Phone: 312-814-6611 / 1-866-352-3033
- Web: iwcc.il.gov
State Disability Programs
Illinois does not have a state disability insurance program. Apply through federal SSDI/SSI.
Medicaid
Illinois Medicaid is administered by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).
How to apply:- Online at abe.illinois.gov
- By phone: 1-800-843-6154
- Web: hfs.illinois.gov
Vocational Rehabilitation
The Illinois Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) helps people with disabilities find employment.
Contact:- Phone: 1-877-761-9780
- Web: dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29737
Disability Rights
Equip for Equality is Illinois's federally designated Protection and Advocacy organization. Contact:- Phone: 312-341-0022 / 1-800-537-2632
- Web: equipforequality.org
Veterans Services
The Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs provides state-level assistance.
Contact:- Phone: 1-800-437-9824
- Web: veterans.illinois.gov
State Employment Protections
Illinois has the Illinois Human Rights Act, which prohibits disability discrimination for employers with 15 or more employees.
Where to file a complaint:- Illinois Department of Human Rights: 312-814-6200 / 1-800-662-3942
- Web: dhr.illinois.gov
Key Contacts
| Agency | Phone | Website | |--------|-------|---------| | Workers' Compensation Commission | 1-866-352-3033 | iwcc.il.gov | | Medicaid (HFS) | 1-800-843-6154 | hfs.illinois.gov | | Division of Rehabilitation Services | 1-877-761-9780 | dhs.state.il.us | | Equip for Equality | 1-800-537-2632 | equipforequality.org | | Dept. of Veterans' Affairs | 1-800-437-9824 | veterans.illinois.gov | | Dept. of Human Rights | 1-800-662-3942 | dhr.illinois.gov | | Social Security Administration | 1-800-772-1213 | ssa.gov |