Getting ID and Documents Back

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

Hi friend. Losing your ID can make everything feel stuck, from getting a job to picking up a check to getting into some shelters. I know how frustrating that is. The good news is you can get your papers back, one at a time, and Illinois has some fee breaks for people experiencing homelessness.

Here is the easy first step: figure out what you still have. Any old ID, a Social Security card, a birth certificate, mail with your name, or a benefits letter all help. Then use this guide to fill in the gaps.

A few things to know

• You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
• Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a document, money or a spot in any program.
• Fees and rules change. Check with the office before you go when you can.
• In danger right now? Call 911. Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.

Where do I start if I lost everything?

Most people get their papers back in this order, because each one helps you get the next:

• Birth certificate. It proves who you are and where you were born.
• Social Security card. It proves your Social Security number.
• Illinois state ID or driver's license. It's your photo ID for most everything else.

If you have any one of these, start with what's missing. Many homeless service programs, day centers and case managers help with ID, and in Illinois they can also sign the forms that make your state ID and birth certificate at no cost. Ask 211 or your local shelter line in Guide 1.

BUNKLY TIP

Photos save the day

Once you get your documents back, take clear photos of each one and email them to yourself. If they ever go missing again, you'll have the numbers and details right there. Easy peasy!

How do I get an Illinois state ID?

The Illinois Secretary of State issues state ID cards at its DMV offices. As of October 17, 2026, the Secretary of State says:

• There's no minimum age for a state ID card. It's issued for a fee and is usually good for 5 years.
• You'll get a temporary paper ID, good for 90 days, and your card comes in the mail within 15 business days.
• No cost state IDs. Residents over 65 can get a no cost state ID that never expires. People with disabilities can get a at no cost 10 year state ID, with a form filled out by their doctor.
• No cost for people experiencing homelessness, youth in DCFS care ages 16 to 20, and people leaving Illinois prisons and jails. See the next sections.
• Questions? Call the Secretary of State at 800.252.8980.

Sources: https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers-license/drlicid.html and https://realid.ilsos.gov/

Can I get a no cost ID if I'm homeless?

Yes. As of October 17, 2026, the Secretary of State says:

• You qualify for the no fee state ID if you're homeless under the federal McKinney Vento definition.
• You still need documents showing your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number and signature.
• You must bring a completed Homeless Status Certification. ISBE says a homeless service provider or an attorney fills it out.
• The form says the agency must have it notarized, and you must apply within 90 days of that date. Your ID is mailed to the agency, and you have 60 days to pick it up there.

Sources: https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers-license/drlicid.html and https://www.ilsos.gov/content/dam/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a230.pdf and https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Homeless-Birth-Certificates.aspx

How do I get my Illinois birth certificate?

If you were born in Illinois, you can order a certified copy from the county clerk where you were born, or from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Division of Vital Records. As of October 17, 2026, IDPH says:

• You must send a valid, unexpired government photo ID, or the request will be sent back.
• A certified copy is $10, or $15 for the version with the information collected at your birth, plus $2 for each extra copy ordered at the same time.
• Mail orders take about 12 weeks, and you won't get updates while you wait. Questions? Email DPH.VITALS@illinois.gov.
• No cost if you're homeless. ISBE says a person who is homeless under the McKinney Vento definition qualifies for a no fee birth certificate, provided at no cost to the legal representative who requests it. That can be a homeless service agency, an attorney, a school homeless liaison or social worker, or a state funded youth or human services provider. They can't charge you for verifying.

Born in another state? Contact that state's vital records office. 211 can help you find it.

Sources: https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/birth-death-other-records/birth-records/obtain-birth-certificate.html and https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Homeless-Birth-Certificates.aspx and https://www.isbe.net/Documents/Helping-Persons-Experiencing-Homelessness-Get-an-Illinois-Birth-Certificate-Guide.pdf

Getting your papers back is a big win, friend. Celebrate each one, because each one opens the next door.

From the Bunklow team

How do I replace my Social Security card?

Replacing your Social Security card is at no cost. The Social Security Administration explains how, and many adults can request a replacement online with a my Social Security account.

You can also call or visit a Social Security office.

• Beware of anyone who charges you to replace your card. It's at no cost from Social Security.
• Often, you just need your number, not the card. Ask the place that wants it if your number is enough.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ssa.gov/number-card

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Use one safe address

If you don't have a steady address, ask a shelter, day center or trusted friend if you can get mail there. Many programs offer a mailing address for people they serve. Then use that same address on every form.

What if someone used my identity?

If you think someone stole your identity, IdentityTheft.gov from the Federal Trade Commission helps you report it and make a recovery plan. Also tell the agency that issued the document.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.identitytheft.gov/

Do I need a REAL ID?

A REAL ID has a small gold star in the top right corner. As of October 17, 2026, the Secretary of State says:

• Without a REAL ID or a passport, the TSA charges travelers a $45 fee to get through airport security, or $90 for trips over 10 days. A standard state ID still works for everyday needs.
• To get one, bring one document with your full legal name, date of birth and citizenship or lawful status, like a passport or birth certificate.
• Bring one document with your full Social Security number, like your Social Security card or a W 2.
• Bring two documents proving your Illinois address, like a bank statement, rental agreement, pay stub or utility bill, and one document with your signature.
• Only original documents are accepted, not photocopies. Questions? Call 800.252.8980.
• If you don't need to fly soon, the no cost standard state ID may be the easier first step.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://realid.ilsos.gov/

I'm in DCFS care. Can I get a no cost ID?

Yes. The Secretary of State says youth in DCFS care ages 16 to 20 qualify for a no fee state ID.

Bring documents showing your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number and signature, plus a completed DCFS Form 906 dated within 30 days. Ask your caseworker for the form.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers-license/drlicid.html

Do I need an ID to vote in Illinois?

Usually not. As of October 17, 2026, the Chicago Board of Elections says no ID is needed if you're already registered at your current address, voting in the right precinct, and your signature matches.

• You need one ID with your current address if you registered by mail without giving a state ID or Social Security number, or if your registration is questioned.
• You need two IDs, one with your current address, if you register or change your address in person, even on Election Day.
• Accepted ID includes a state ID, a school or work ID, a lease, a LINK or DHS card, or mail addressed to you like a bill, pay stub or official government letter.
• If you need ID and don't have it, you can cast a provisional ballot.

The State Board of Elections says if you registered by mail, you must vote in person the first time, unless your election office has already checked your ID.

Sources: https://www.chicagoelections.gov/voting/when-you-need-id-vote and https://www.elections.il.gov/Downloads/ElectionOperations/PDF/RegisteringToVote.pdf

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Your vote counts

Not having a home doesn't stop you from voting. Ask a shelter or day center how to register using their address, and you'll be all set!

I live in Chicago. Is there a city ID?

Yes. The Chicago CityKey is a no cost ID card for Chicago residents.

As of October 17, 2026, the City says:

• It's for any Chicago resident, no matter your immigration status, age or income.
• Bring proof of identity, like a passport, national ID, school ID or birth certificate, and proof that you live in Chicago, like a utility bill, lease, or a letter from a shelter or nonprofit.
• Don't have standard documents? Staff can help you find other proofs.
• The City Clerk holds CityKey printing events. Make an appointment and bring your confirmation code. Questions? Call 312.742.5375, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.
• A CityKey or other document with your name and address is enough to get a no cost Chicago Public Library card.
• A CityKey is not a state ID or a REAL ID.

Sources: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/office-of-immigrant-migrant-and-refugee-rights/home/city-services/documents-and-id-card.html and https://www.chicityclerk.com/citykey

I'm leaving prison or jail. Can I get my ID before I get out?

You may. The Secretary of State says people in Illinois Department of Corrections, Juvenile Justice, federal prisons in Illinois, and Illinois county jails may be able to get a no fee state ID before they're released.

• If you've never had an Illinois ID, the facility helps you get a certified copy of your birth certificate, takes your photo, and sends your form to the Secretary of State.
• After the Secretary of State checks your information, your ID is sent to the facility and given to you when you're released.
• Ask your facility's reentry or records staff early.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers-license/drlicid.html

How do I replace a lost green card?

As of October 17, 2026, USCIS says a lawful permanent resident must replace a Green Card that was lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed, or that has wrong information.

• Use the USCIS Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Form I 90). You can file online, using a computer, phone or tablet, or by mail.
• If you need proof of your status while you wait, USCIS may be able to give you a temporary stamp. Its Contact Center can help.
• Questions? Call the USCIS Contact Center at 800.375.5283 (TTY 800.767.1833).
• Only file with USCIS directly, at uscis.gov. Be careful of anyone who promises faster results for a fee. At no cost or low cost immigration legal help, ask a legal aid office in the Legal and Tenant Help guide, or dial 211.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/after-we-grant-your-green-card/replace-your-green-card

Sources: https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/drivers/drivers-license/drlicid.html and https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Homeless-Birth-Certificates.aspx and https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/birth-death-other-records/birth-records/obtain-birth-certificate.html and https://www.chicagoelections.gov/voting/when-you-need-id-vote and https://www.chicityclerk.com/citykey

Who can I call in my county?

Here are places that can help with ID and documents near you. Shelters and day centers in Guides 1 and 2 can also help.

Federal help (works in every state)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Illinois

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Chicago

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Cook County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

DuPage County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Lake County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Will County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Kane County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

McHenry County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Winnebago County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Madison County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

St. Clair County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Champaign County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Sangamon County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Peoria County

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Neighborhood and other counties

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

My ID checklist

Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!

Key numbers to keep

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Please let me know if you have any questions

If something in this guide is out of date, tell us and we'll fix it. One document at a time, you've got this. Make it a great day, friend!

About this guide

Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 17, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

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Last updated October 17, 2026