Send us your contact information and what you need through our secure Request Assistance form and a VAC team member will follow up. Please do not enter your Social Security number online — we collect that in person.
Important: Emergency Program Notice
The Veterans Assistance program is one of emergency. It is not designed to be an ongoing financial support program over any considerable time. Applicants receiving aid from another governmental agency may not be eligible. Financial assistance is never given in cash — all authorizations are done by voucher.
Program Overview
The Macoupin County VAC can assist qualifying Veterans and their families with temporary financial assistance during hardship, including payments toward the bare necessities of life. Entitlement is determined by rules adopted by the Commission (MACVAC-VS-001) consistent with Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) guidelines under 305 ILCS 5.
What We Can Help With
What this program does NOT cover. We help with life essentials only. We cannot pay: property taxes, phone or cell bills, insurance premiums, car payments or vehicle purchases, medical or hospital bills, security or utility deposits, past-due balances beyond one billing cycle or back rent, late fees and penalties, hotel/motel or storage, vehicle purchases, routine commuting or non-medical travel, alcohol, tobacco, or other non-essential items.
This is emergency, last-resort aid — you must apply for available VA and state benefits first, and we will help you do that. All assistance is paid by voucher directly to the vendor, never in cash.
Income Eligibility
Under Commission policy (MACVAC-VS-001), a household's gross monthly income generally must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines by household size. Final eligibility also considers expenses, assets, and the specific emergency.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,729 | $20,748 |
| 2 people | $2,345 | $28,142 |
| 3 people | $2,960 | $35,521 |
| 4 people | $3,575 | $42,900 |
| 5 people | $4,191 | $50,294 |
| 6 people | $4,806 | $57,673 |
| 7 people | $5,421 | $65,052 |
| 8 people | $6,037 | $72,446 |
| Each additional | +$616 | +$7,394 |
Based on the 2026 HHS Federal Poverty Guidelines (48 contiguous states & D.C.); updated annually.
Application Process
Apply Online → Download & Print (PDF) → or apply with our help
Need Assistance Now?
Contact the VAC office to speak with a service officer about your situation.
Call (217) 854-5249Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Documents to Bring
- DD-214 (Discharge Papers)
- Driver's License or State ID
- Social Security Card
- Proof of Macoupin County Residency
- Bills / Invoices for assistance needed
- Employment registration (if applicable)
- Doctor's statement (if medically exempt)
Voucher Payment System
All assistance is provided via voucher — never cash. Housing and utilities are paid directly to the vendor; food and hygiene items via purchase order. A receipt or bill is required for payment.