How to apply for Illinois Volunteer Money Management Program

Who it's for

The Illinois Volunteer Money Management Program matches a trained, bonded volunteer with an older adult who has trouble keeping up with household finances. Volunteers help organize and pay bills, set up a budget, balance a checkbook, deal with creditors, and can serve as a Social Security representative payee. It is a protective service for low-income older adults who are Community Care Program (CCP) participants or who have a substantiated Adult Protective Services case, offered in about 60 counties (and several Cook County townships). Contact the local Care Coordination Unit or call the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Community Care Program enrollment or an Adult Protective Services case reference
• Recent bills and bank statements for the volunteer's first visit

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Illinois Volunteer Money Management Program. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+, community Care Program enrollment or an Adult Protective Services case reference, recent bills and bank statements for the volunteer's first visit — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm eligibility first. You must be age 60 or older and either enrolled in the Community Care Program (CCP) or have a substantiated Adult Protective Services case. The program is available in about 60 Illinois counties and select Cook County townships — check with the Illinois Department on Aging to confirm your area is covered.
2. Gather your documents before you apply. You will need proof of age (showing you are 60 or older), your Community Care Program enrollment information or your Adult Protective Services case reference, and recent bills and bank statements to have ready for the volunteer's first visit.
3. Apply online or by phone. You can apply through the Illinois Department on Aging's online application or by calling the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966. Staff can connect you with your local Care Coordination Unit or Program Site.
4. Complete any intake steps your local Care Coordination Unit or Program Site requires. They will review your eligibility and gather details about the financial tasks where you need help.
5. Get matched with a trained, bonded volunteer. Once approved, a volunteer will be assigned to work with you on tasks such as organizing and paying bills, setting up a budget, balancing a checkbook, and dealing with creditors. The volunteer can also serve as a Social Security representative payee if needed.

What to expect: After submitting your application, your local Care Coordination Unit or Program Site will review your information and confirm eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate when you apply. Once matched, a trained and bonded volunteer will meet with you on an ongoing basis — there is no set end date for the service as long as you continue to need support and remain eligible. Note that some Program Sites may charge a small fee for services provided above Community Care Program limits; ask your local site about any costs that may apply. Keep your CCP enrollment or APS case status current, as eligibility is tied to those programs.

Renewals

ongoing