Illinois SNAP Fraud: Millions Stolen, Vulnerable Families Left Hungry
A new report reveals that over $21 million in SNAP benefits were stolen from nearly 38,000 Illinois households between October 2022 and December 2024, with $12.5 million stolen in 2024 alone. This fraud, facilitated by outdated card technology susceptible to skimming, leaves eligible families without food assistance and underscores a national problem exceeding $220 million. While Illinois is participating in a mobile payment pilot program, the state has opted against issuing chip-enabled cards, a solution already adopted by other states. Continued efforts by law enforcement to combat skimming and recover stolen funds are underway, but victims are currently not being reimbursed.
John Q. Hosedrinker