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. Looking for work takes real courage, especially when money is tight or life has thrown you a curveball. I'm cheering you on.
Here is the easy first step: find your local Illinois workNet Center. Their help is at no cost, and they can help with job leads, resumes, training and more. This guide walks you through it, plus unemployment pay, help for people with disabilities, and a fresh start if you have a record.
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 job, money or a spot in any program.
- Hours and details change. Call ahead when you can.
- In danger right now? Call 911. Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.
Start with Illinois workNet. Illinois workNet Centers, also called American Job Centers, offer no cost help with job searches, resumes, training and job fairs.
The Illinois workNet website also has virtual job fairs, resume and job skills guides, and a guide for people coming home from incarceration.
- Find a center near you with the Illinois workNet Service Finder. Search by city, ZIP code or county.
- Search jobs on IllinoisJobLink.com, the state's no cost job board from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). For help with your IllinoisJobLink.com account, call 877.342.7533.
Sources: https://apps.illinoisworknet.com/Locator/ and https://www.illinoisworknet.com/ and https://ides.illinois.gov/about/contact-ides.html
How to get started, step by step
- Find your local Illinois workNet Center in the Service Finder, or ask 211.
- Create your account on IllinoisJobLink.com.
- Call or visit the center and ask for a career counselor or a workshop.
- Bring a list of past jobs, dates and any work you did at no cost or for family.
- Ask about training money, apprenticeships and job fairs coming up.
- Write down the name of the program and when to call back.
What to say at the career center
"Hi. I'm looking for work and I'd like help with my job search."
"Can someone help me with my resume and online applications?"
"Do you have training programs or apprenticeships I might qualify for?"
"Are there job fairs or hiring events coming up?"
Use the library, too
No computer at home? Your public library has no cost computers and WiFi, and many libraries have no cost help with resumes and applications. Easy peasy!
What if I just lost my job?
IDES runs unemployment insurance (UI) in Illinois. Here's what IDES says to know before you file.
- File online at the IDES website. Questions about a claim, certifying or payments? Call Claimant Services at 800.244.5631.
- Finish the application in one sitting. IDES says the session ends after an hour if you step away, and what you entered is lost.
- List every employer from the last 18 months. Check your pay stubs or W2s if a name looks unfamiliar.
- Tell the truth about why your job ended. Not reporting it accurately can delay your benefits or affect whether you qualify.
- Want an in person or phone appointment? Call the IDES scheduling line at 217.558.0401. Walk ins are welcome too, but appointments help avoid a wait.
Sources: https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/file-a-claim/10-things-you-should-know.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/about/contact-ides.html
Before you apply for unemployment, gather what you can
Losing a job doesn't say anything bad about you. It's a season, and seasons change. One phone call at a time, friend.
From the Bunklow team
How does Illinois unemployment work after I apply?
It can feel like a lot of rules at once. Here's the path, in plain words, from the IDES Unemployment Insurance Benefit Handbook.
After you apply, step by step
- Watch for your UI Finding letter. It shows your weekly benefit amount and your certification day.
- Register on IllinoisJobLink.com if IDES tells you to. If you have to register, benefits aren't paid until it's done.
- Certify every two weeks, online or by Tele Serve at 312.338.4337, Monday to Friday, 3 am to 7:30 pm.
- Keep looking for work, and keep a record of when and where you applied.
- Answer any interview call from IDES at the number you gave them.
- If a letter denies your benefits and you disagree, file an appeal right away. The letter shows your deadline. Keep certifying every two weeks while you wait, if you're still out of work.
How you get paid
- IDES pays by direct deposit or paper check. After you certify, allow 2 to 3 days for direct deposit, or 8 days for a check.
Working part time while you look
- Report all your gross wages (before taxes) for the week you earned them, every time you certify.
- If you earn less than your weekly benefit amount, you may still get a full or partial payment. IDES only takes off the part of your earnings that's more than half your weekly benefit amount.
Who qualifies
- You must be able and available to work each week. IDES says things like being sick, being away on vacation, or having to stay home to care for family can mean you aren't available that week.
- Questions? Call Claimant Services at 800.244.5631.
Sources: https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/resources/unemployment-insurance-benefit-handbook/ui-benefit-handbook----certification.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/resources/unemployment-insurance-benefit-handbook/ui-benefit-handbook---appeals.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/resources/unemployment-insurance-benefit-handbook/ui-handbook-when-and-where-to-file.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/resources/partial-benefits.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/insurance/employment-registration-requirement.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/about/contact-ides.html
Keep your log
IDES says to keep a record of all your work search efforts, because you may be asked for it later. If you search on IllinoisJobLink.com, your efforts are recorded there. A simple notebook or phone note works great too!
Say your unemployment was denied
Say you got a letter saying you can't get benefits, and you think it's wrong. IDES says you have 30 days after the letter was mailed to appeal, by mail or fax to the address or fax number in the letter.
An Administrative Law Judge then holds a hearing where you can tell your side and bring witnesses. IDES has a legal services program for claimants through Workplace Law Partners. You could call 844.562.7448 right away to ask if they can help.
This is an example to show how it can work. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different. Sources: https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/resources/unemployment-insurance-benefit-handbook/ui-benefit-handbook---appeals.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/about/contact-ides.html
What if I have a disability?
The IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services helps people with disabilities find and keep jobs. Its Vocational Rehabilitation program helps people get ready for work, find a job and get the support they need to stay on the job.
- Who can get it? IDHS says many people with disabilities qualify. To be eligible, you need a significant physical or mental impairment that makes it hard to work.
- How to start. Use the online Rehabilitation Services Web Referral, or find one of the 47 local offices with the IDHS Office Locator. You can also call 1.800.843.6154 (TTY 1.866.324.5553).
- Special help. There are services for people who are blind or have low vision, people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and Hispanic or Latino people with disabilities, plus programs for high school students.
- Getting SSI or SSDI? The Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Program can explain how working affects your benefits.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29737
Say you have a back injury
Say a back injury means you can't lift heavy boxes anymore, and you want a different kind of job. You could refer yourself online to IDHS Rehabilitation Services, or call 1.800.843.6154 and ask for your nearest local office. A counselor can talk with you about the kinds of work that fit.
At the same time, you could visit an Illinois workNet Center to look at training for jobs that fit what you can do now.
This is an example to show how it can work. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29737
Can I get a job if I have a record?
Yes, many people do. Here's what to know.
- Ban the Box. In Illinois, many employers wait to ask about a record until later in hiring. Questions about when an employer can ask? Check the official page below.
- Fair review. If an employer wants to turn you down because of a conviction, you may get a notice and a chance to respond. Check the details on the IDHR page below.
- Think you were treated differently because of your record? You can report it to the Illinois Department of Human Rights. Call 312.814.4320 (TTY 866.740.3953).
- CareerOneStop, from the U.S. Department of Labor, has a no cost ReEntry Program Finder for help with jobs, housing and other needs. Illinois workNet also has a Formerly Incarcerated Persons Guide.
- Need your ID first? See Guide 11, Getting ID and Documents Back.
Sources: https://labor.illinois.gov/laws-rules/fls/job-opportunities-for-qualified-applicants-act.html and https://dhr.illinois.gov/about-us/idhr-faqs/know-your-rights-faqs/conviction-record-protections----faq.html and https://www.careeronestop.org/JusticeImpacted/default.aspx
Practice your answer
Practice a short, honest answer about your record, then turn it toward what you learned and what you can do now. Saying it out loud a few times makes it so much easier. You've got this!
Where can I get no cost job training?
- Training money. Ask your local Illinois workNet Center about training accounts and on the job training. Illinois workNet lists approved training programs and apprenticeships.
- Apprenticeships. You earn a paycheck while you learn a trade. Search Apprenticeship Illinois on the Illinois workNet site.
- Adult education. Illinois workNet also lists adult education programs, like help earning a high school equivalency.
- Job Corps, ages 16 to 24. Job Corps says it is the nation's largest at no cost, residential career training and education program for young adults with low incomes, with no cost housing, meals and basic medical care while you train. Call 800.733.5627.
Sources: https://www.illinoisworknet.com/ and https://www.jobcorps.gov/
How do I get ready for interviews?
- Write a simple resume. One page is fine. List your jobs, skills, and any training. Your job center can help at no cost, and Illinois workNet has a Resume Writing Guide.
- Plan the trip. Know the bus route and leave early. Dial 211 to ask about ride help.
- Dress neat and clean. Need interview clothes? See Guide 5, Clothing and Hygiene.
- Bring copies. Your resume, your ID, and a list of references with phone numbers.
- Follow up. A short thank you call or email the next day helps you stand out.
What if my boss didn't pay me?
That's not okay, and Illinois has a way to help. The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) takes wage claims.
- Questions about when you should be paid, or about final pay? Check the official page below.
- File your wage claim as soon as you can. IDOL uses an online Wage Claim application, and you'll need an Illinois Public ID account.
- Questions about minimum wage or overtime? Check the official page below, or call the minimum wage hotline at 800.478.3998.
Sources: https://labor.illinois.gov/faqs/wage-payment-faq.html and https://labor.illinois.gov/laws-rules/fls/minimum-wage-law.html
Before you file a wage claim, gather what you can
Questions people ask a lot
Are job centers really at no cost?
Yes. Illinois workNet Center job search help is at no cost. Ask your center what they offer.
Do I have to sign up on IllinoisJobLink.com?
If IDES says you're subject to the registration requirement, your benefits won't be paid until you register.
How often do I certify for unemployment?
Every two weeks, online or by Tele Serve, even while an appeal is pending, as long as you're still out of work.
How do I start with Vocational Rehabilitation?
Use the IDHS Rehabilitation Services Web Referral online, or call 1.800.843.6154.
Can I get job help if I don't have a home address?
Yes, you can still ask. Tell the career center your situation and ask how they can reach you by phone or email.
Sources: https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/insurance/employment-registration-requirement.html and https://ides.illinois.gov/unemployment/resources/unemployment-insurance-benefit-handbook/ui-benefit-handbook---appeals.html and https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29737
One step at a time
Every application, every call and every workshop counts. I'm proud of you for showing up for yourself, and I'm happy you're here!
Here are job centers and programs near you. If your county isn't listed, use the Illinois workNet Service Finder or dial 211.
Federal
Here are some places to start.
Job Corps
What it offers No cost career training and education for young adults ages 16 through 24 with low incomes, with no cost housing, meals and basic medical care while you train.
How to reach Call 800.733.5627 (TTY 877.889.5627). Learn more at https://www.jobcorps.gov/
Source https://www.jobcorps.gov/
Last checked October 17, 2026
CareerOneStop for Justice Impacted Job Seekers
What it offers No cost tips and tools for people with a criminal record, including a ReEntry Program Finder and job search help.
How to reach Visit https://www.careeronestop.org/JusticeImpacted/default.aspx or call 1.877.872.5627.
Source https://www.careeronestop.org/JusticeImpacted/default.aspx
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Illinois
Here are some places to start.
IllinoisJobLink.com (IDES)
What it offers The state's no cost job board, run by IDES. If you file for unemployment, IDES may require you to register here.
How to reach https://illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov/ For account help, call 877.342.7533.
Source https://ides.illinois.gov/about/contact-ides.html
Last checked October 17, 2026
Illinois workNet Centers and American Job Centers
What it offers The Service Finder shows Illinois workNet Centers (American Job Centers) and partner sites near you. Search by city, ZIP code, county or the kind of help you need.
How to reach https://apps.illinoisworknet.com/Locator/
Source https://apps.illinoisworknet.com/Locator/
Last checked October 17, 2026
IDES unemployment insurance
What it offers Unemployment pay for workers who lost a job through no fault of their own. File online and certify every two weeks.
How to reach Claimant Services 800.244.5631. Tele Serve certification 312.338.4337. Appointment scheduling 217.558.0401.
Source https://ides.illinois.gov/about/contact-ides.html
Last checked October 17, 2026
IDHS Rehabilitation Services
What it offers Vocational Rehabilitation to help people with disabilities find and keep jobs, with 47 local offices around the state.
How to reach Use the online Rehabilitation Services Web Referral, or call 1.800.843.6154 (TTY 1.866.324.5553).
Source https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29737
Last checked October 17, 2026
Illinois Department of Labor wage claims
What it offers Takes claims for unpaid wages and final pay. Check the official page for the details.
How to reach File online with the IDOL Wage Claim application. Minimum wage questions: 800.478.3998.
Source https://labor.illinois.gov/faqs/wage-payment-faq.html and https://labor.illinois.gov/laws-rules/fls/minimum-wage-law.html
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Chicago
Here are some places to start.
Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership
What it offers Runs the American Job Center network for Chicago and Cook County, with no cost career services, training, workshops and hiring events.
How to reach Find a center near you at https://chicookworks.org/career-seeker-services/find-your-agency/
Source https://chicookworks.org/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
DuPage County
Here are some places to start.
workNet DuPage Career Center
What it offers No cost workshops, resume reviews and career counseling. Some services need an eligibility check first. Se habla español.
How to reach 2525 Cabot Drive, Suite 302, Lisle. Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. Call 630.955.2030.
Source https://worknetdupage.org/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Madison County
Here are some places to start.
Madison County Employment and Training
What it offers Job and training services in Madison County. A partner of Illinois workNet.
How to reach 101 E. Edwardsville Road, Wood River. Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. Call 618.296.4445. Illinois Relay 711.
Source https://www.madisoncountyil.gov/departments/employment_and_training/index.php
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
St. Clair County
Here are some places to start.
St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Department
What it offers The county department that runs Workforce Development, Community Services and Community Development programs.
How to reach 19 Public Square, Suite 200, Belleville. Call 618.277.6790.
Source https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/intergovernmental-grants
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Neighborhood and other counties
Here are some places to start.
Illinois 211 (outside Chicago and Cook County)
What it offers No cost help finding local services across Illinois. The call center is open 24 hours a day.
How to reach Dial 211. Text your ZIP code to 898211. Search at https://search.211illinois.org/
Source https://www.211illinois.org/
Last checked October 17, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Bring to the career center, if you can
My job plan for this week
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My job search
Calls I made
Key numbers to keep
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. I'm proud of you for taking this step. 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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