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Certify Your Emotional Support Animal in Illinois

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Affordable Emotional Support Animal Letters

Included with Your ESA Letter from Wellness Wag:

  • Thorough evaluation by licensed medical professionals.
  • Legally enforced for rentals, vacation homes, and college dorms.
  • Compliant with Fair Housing Act for housing.
  • Affordable pricing at $149.
  • Money Back Guarantee for stress-free experience.
  • Dedicated customer support.
  • Legitimate ESA letter for peace of mind.
  • Access to benefits in housing with “no pets” policies.
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Save with Wellness Wag and enjoy the same benefits at a lower cost!

Wellness Wag’s emotional support animal letters are issued by licensed medical professionals who are well-versed in the requirements and guidelines for ESA letters. Our professionals conduct thorough assessments and evaluations to ensure that individuals who genuinely need emotional support animals receive the necessary documentation.

While our price may be lower than some competitors, we maintain the highest standards of professionalism, compliance, and authenticity in providing ESA letters. At Wellness Wag, we believe that everyone should have access to affordable emotional support animal letters without compromising on quality. Our competitive price of $149 ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of an emotional support animal letter without breaking the bank. We understand the financial challenges individuals may face, and we strive to provide a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on the legitimacy or effectiveness of the letter.

We are confident in the effectiveness of our ESA letters and stand behind the satisfaction of our customers. Our unique Money Back Guarantee ensures that if, for any reason, your legitimate ESA letter doesn’t work, we will refund your money in full. Whether it’s non-qualification after the consultation or illegal denial by your landlord, we’ve got you covered, ensuring a stress-free experience with your pet. By selecting Wellness Wag, you not only receive an affordable ESA letter but also gain access to reliable customer support throughout the process. Our focus on customer satisfaction means that we are dedicated to addressing any concerns or issues you may have promptly and effectively. With Wellness Wag, you can trust that you are receiving a legitimate ESA letter at a competitive price, backed by our commitment to your well-being and the bond with your pet.

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Over 40,000+ patients seen by our Wellness Wag Doctors.

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Discover Your ESA Eligibility

To begin your emotional support animal registration, answer a few brief questions regarding your Emotional Support Animal (ESA) requirements.

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Consult with an Experienced Doctor

Meet with one of our licensed medical professionals in Illinois.

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Obtain Your Official ESA Letter

Receive your official Illinois emotional support animal letter within 24 hours of getting approved.

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Money Back Guarantee

If your ESA Letter is not approved,
we will refund 100% of your payment

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If your ESA Letter is not approved, we will refund 100% of your payment

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Navigating Assistance Animal Laws in Illinois: Your Guide to Rights and Responsibilities

When it comes to assistance animals in the state of Illinois, it’s essential to understand the laws that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and the responsibilities of housing providers. Whether you have an emotional support animal (ESA) or a service animal, knowing your rights and obligations is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down the key aspects of the Assistance Animal Integrity Act in Illinois.

Understanding the Terminology

Before delving into the specifics of the Assistance Animal Integrity Act, it’s vital to clarify the terminology used in the act. Here are some key definitions:

  1. Assistance Animal: This term encompasses emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals that qualify as reasonable accommodations under federal and state laws. ESAs provide emotional support to individuals with disabilities, while service animals are trained to perform specific tasks for their owners.
  2. Disability: In the context of this act, disability refers to any physical or mental impairment that satisfies the definition of handicap under the Fair Housing Act or the definition of disability under the Illinois Human Rights Act.
  3. Housing Provider: This includes property owners, management companies, property managers, government entities, condominium boards, and related entities involved in residential housing.
  4. Reasonable Accommodation: This term is defined under federal and state fair housing laws, such as the Fair Housing Act and the Illinois Human Rights Act. It refers to adjustments or modifications made to policies, practices, or services to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal housing opportunities.
  5. Therapeutic Relationship: A therapeutic relationship involves the provision of medical, program, or personal care services in good faith, with actual knowledge of an individual’s disability and their disability-related need for an assistance animal. This relationship is established with a physician, mental health service provider, or non-medical service agency or third party.

Documentation of Disability and Disability-Related Need

One of the critical aspects of the Assistance Animal Integrity Act in Illinois is the documentation required to establish a disability and disability-related need for an assistance animal. Here’s what you need to know:

  • A housing provider can request reliable documentation of a disability and disability-related need for an assistance animal if the disability or need is not readily apparent or known to the housing provider.
  • Documentation must be in writing, made by a person with whom the individual requesting the accommodation has a therapeutic relationship, and describe the individual’s disability-related need for the assistance animal.
  • A housing provider can ask a resident to cover the costs of repairs for damage caused by the assistance animal to the dwelling unit or common areas. However, they cannot require additional pet-related fees or liability insurance for the assistance animal.
  • Importantly, the act does not require documentation of a specific diagnosis regarding a disability or disability-related need.

Balancing Disability-Related Needs

The act recognizes the importance of balancing the disability-related needs of all residents within a housing community. While a housing provider may consider the documented disability-related needs of other residents, they cannot deny an assistance animal solely based on the disability-related needs of another resident.

Immunity for Housing Providers

The Assistance Animal Integrity Act provides immunity for housing providers against liabilities for injuries caused by a person’s assistance animal permitted on the property as a reasonable accommodation. This immunity extends to accommodations made under the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Illinois Human Rights Act, or any other federal, state, or local law.

Rights Under Other Acts

It’s important to note that the Assistance Animal Integrity Act does not limit individuals’ rights under federal, state, or local civil rights laws, including the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Illinois Human Rights Act. Additionally, the act does not limit the liability of housing providers under these laws.

In conclusion, understanding the Assistance Animal Integrity Act in Illinois is crucial for both individuals with disabilities and housing providers. It ensures that individuals with disabilities have the right to reasonable accommodations in housing, including the presence of assistance animals. By knowing your rights and responsibilities, you can navigate the process of obtaining and accommodating assistance animals more effectively, fostering a more inclusive and supportive housing environment for everyone.

Enhance Your Life with the Support of an Emotional Support Animal

Navigating the World of Assistance Animals in Illinois:
ESA, Service Dogs, and Therapy Pets

In the state of Illinois, there exists a compassionate framework to support individuals with emotional and psychological needs through the use of assistance animals. Understanding the distinctions among emotional support animals (ESAs), service dogs, and therapy pets is crucial when seeking assistance for yourself or a loved one. In this guide, we will delve into the differences between these categories and explore the laws that govern them in the Land of Lincoln.

Emotional Support Animals in Illinois: Emotional Support Animals, commonly referred to as ESAs, play a vital role in providing emotional comfort and support to individuals struggling with emotional or psychological conditions. ESAs do not require specialized training like service dogs, but they do require an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional in Illinois. This letter ensures that the ESA is prescribed as part of a therapeutic treatment plan for a specific mental health condition.

Illinois Emotional Support Animal Laws: Illinois recognizes the importance of ESAs in improving the mental health of its residents. Under Illinois law, individuals with ESAs are granted certain rights, such as housing and travel accommodations. Landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs, even in properties with a no-pet policy. Additionally, airlines must also allow ESAs to travel with their owners in the cabin, provided they have the necessary documentation.

Service Dogs in Illinois: Service dogs are highly trained to perform specific tasks that aid individuals with physical or sensory disabilities. Unlike ESAs, service dogs are not limited to providing emotional support; they are trained to perform tasks that mitigate the impact of a disability. In Illinois, these remarkable animals are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which allows them access to public places and facilities where animals are typically prohibited.

Illinois Emotional Support Animal vs. Service Dog: It is important to differentiate between ESAs and service dogs in Illinois. While ESAs offer emotional support and require an ESA letter for legal recognition, service dogs undergo extensive training to assist individuals with disabilities. This training allows service dogs to accompany their owners in places where ESAs may not be permitted, such as restaurants, stores, and public transportation.

Therapy Pets in Illinois: Therapy pets, unlike ESAs and service dogs, serve a different purpose. They are not owned by individuals with disabilities but are often brought into hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other facilities to provide comfort and emotional support to patients, students, or residents. Therapy pets are typically well-trained and have a calm and friendly demeanor.

In Illinois, the distinction between emotional support animals, service dogs, and therapy pets is essential for both individuals seeking assistance and the general public. ESAs require an ESA letter and offer emotional support, while service dogs are highly trained to aid individuals with disabilities and are protected under the ADA. Therapy pets, on the other hand, are used in various public settings to provide comfort.

Understanding the differences and respective laws governing these categories ensures that those in need receive the appropriate support and that the rights of both individuals and animals are respected in the state of Illinois. Whether you’re considering an ESA, service dog, or involved in therapy pet activities, Illinois has a compassionate framework in place to ensure the well-being of all its residents.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)Service DogsTherapy Pets
DefinitionAnimals providing emotional support to individuals with mental health conditions.Highly trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities.Animals providing comfort and emotional support in various public settings.
Training RequirementsTypically, no specialized training is required, but good behavior and obedience are essential.Rigorous training, lasting 18-24 months, for specific tasks related to a person’s disability.Varies, but therapy pets are generally well-trained for calm and friendly interactions.
Legal DocumentationTypically, no specialized training is required, but good behavior and obedience are essential.No specific legal documentation required, but some may have certification or ID.Often registered with therapy pet organizations, with no formal legal documentation required.
Illinois ESA LawsRecognized under Illinois law, granting housing and travel accommodation rights. Landlords must make accommodations, and airlines must allow ESAs in the cabin.Protected under the ADA, allowing extensive public access rights, including restaurants, stores, and public transport.Not covered by specific Illinois laws; access depends on individual facility policies.
Public Access Rights in IllinoisLimited to housing and air travel accommodations under federal law. ESAs are allowed in housing with a no-pet policy, and airlines must permit them in the cabin with proper documentation.Extensive public access rights under the ADA, allowing service dogs in places where pets are typically not allowed, like restaurants and stores.Not specifically protected by Illinois law; access to facilities depends on individual policies.
OwnershipOwned by individuals with mental health conditions who benefit from emotional support in their therapeutic treatment.Owned by individuals with disabilities who rely on their service dog to perform tasks related to their disability.Owned by volunteers or handlers involved in therapy pet programs, providing comfort and support to others.
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What is the definition of an emotional support animal?

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a companion animal that plays a vital role in providing emotional comfort and support to individuals dealing with mental or emotional disabilities. Unlike service animals, which undergo specialized training to perform specific tasks, ESAs do not have training requirements. Instead, they offer therapeutic benefits by simply being present and offering companionship. These animals are often prescribed by licensed mental health professionals as part of a therapeutic treatment plan.

Are emotional support animals in Illinois categorized as service animals?

No, emotional support animals in Illinois are not considered service animals. Service animals, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired or mobility assistance dogs, are trained to perform specific tasks to assist individuals with physical or mental disabilities. In contrast, ESAs provide emotional support and comfort but do not have specialized training to perform specific tasks.

How does an emotional support animal in Illinois differ from a service animal?

The primary distinction between an emotional support animal (ESA) in Illinois and a service animal lies in their purpose and training. Service animals undergo rigorous training to perform specific tasks that directly mitigate a person’s disability. These tasks can include guiding the blind, alerting to seizures, or assisting with mobility.

On the other hand, ESAs do not require specialized training. Their primary role is to provide emotional support, reduce symptoms of mental or emotional disabilities, and offer comfort to their owners. ESAs are prescribed by mental health professionals based on the therapeutic benefits they can provide.

Unlock the Benefits of Emotional Support Animals

Discover the Effortless Way to Get Your Legitimate ESA Letter with Wellness Wag

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Step 1:
Complete Our Assessment

Start your journey by completing our simple assessment. Share essential information about your situation and emotional pet support needs. This helps us tailor our services precisely to meet your requirements when you’re seeking an emotional support animal in Illinois.

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Step 2:
Consult with Medical Physicians

Once you’ve submitted the necessary forms, we’ll connect you with a licensed medical doctor in Illinois. Have a personalized consultation and undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine your eligibility for an ESA.

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Step 3:
Receive Your ESA Letter

Upon confirmation by our licensed medical doctor, you’ll receive a professionally crafted ESA letter with legal recognition within 24 hours of your consultation.

We offer a unique Money Back Guarantee to ensure a stress-free experience with your pet. If, for any reason, your legitimate ESA letter doesn’t work, we will refund your money in full. Whether it’s due to non-qualification or illegal denial by your landlord, we’ve got you covered. Our policy guarantees a 100% refund for two reasons: if you don’t qualify after the consultation or if your landlord rejects the letter despite HUD complaint. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we stand behind the effectiveness of our ESA letters.

Embrace the transformative benefits of emotional support animals with ease. Choose Wellness Wag for a smooth process guided by our trusted team of medical physicians. Enjoy the positive impact of the ESA experience for you and your furry companions.

DISCOVER Wellness Wag:

Your Dedicated Emotional Support Animal Partner

We at Wellness Wag, comprise a team of devoted professionals who believe in enhancing lives through the healing power of emotional support animals. With our extensive experience in the sector, we’ve aided countless individuals in finding tranquility, comfort, and a revitalized sense of well-being through the companionship of an Emotional Support Animal.

Our objective at Wellness Wag is to ensure reliable and accessible Emotional Support Animal Letters consultations. This provides individuals battling emotional and mental health issues the chance to witness the life-changing impact of an ESA’s companionship. We are committed to equipping our clients with the knowledge and resources to navigate this process with confidence and empathy.

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Emotional Support Animals in Illinois FAQs

No, there is no official or government-mandated registration or certification process for emotional support animals in Illinois. While there are various online registration services and products available, they are not legally required. To qualify for the benefits of an ESA, you will need an ESA letter from a licensed medical provider or medical provider or mental health professional, which serves as legitimate documentation of your need for an emotional support animal.

In general, emotional support animals do not have the same level of public access rights as service animals in Illinois. Service animals are allowed in most public places, including restaurants, stores, and transportation facilities, while ESAs typically do not have these same access rights. However, ESAs are permitted in housing under the Fair Housing Act and during air travel under the Air Carrier Access Act.

The primary differences between emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals lie in their training and the roles they serve. Service animals undergo specialized training to perform specific tasks that directly assist individuals with disabilities. These tasks may include guiding the blind, alerting to seizures, or retrieving items for individuals with mobility impairments.

ESAs, on the other hand, provide emotional support and comfort to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities. They do not require specialized training to perform tasks but are prescribed by licensed medical provider or mental health professionals to help alleviate the symptoms of these disabilities.

Having an ESA in Illinois can offer several therapeutic benefits. ESAs are known to reduce symptoms of mental or emotional disabilities, such as anxiety and depression. They provide companionship and emotional support, which can significantly improve the overall well-being of their owners. Additionally, ESAs grant certain housing-related benefits under the Fair Housing Act and accommodations for air travel under the Air Carrier Access Act.

Yes, emotional support animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) in Illinois. The FHA requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, which includes allowing ESAs in housing even if the property has a no-pets policy. To qualify, individuals must have a valid ESA letter from a licensed medical provider or mental health professional.

The guidelines for traveling with an emotional support animal on airlines have evolved, and regulations have become stricter. It’s essential to check with the specific airline you plan to use for their updated policies and requirements regarding ESAs. Many airlines now have specific documentation requirements, advanced notice, and limitations on the types of animals allowed as ESAs.

To acquire an emotional support animal in Illinois, you must first qualify by having a mental or emotional disability diagnosed by a licensed medical provider or mental health professional. This professional will evaluate your condition and, if appropriate, provide you with an ESA letter. This letter serves as legitimate documentation of your need for an emotional support animal.

Wellness Wag’s ESA letters are considered legitimate because they are issued by licensed medical providers or mental health professionals after a thorough evaluation of your condition. These professionals adhere to the legal requirements for ESA letters, ensuring that they are valid and recognized under federal and state laws.

Yes, ESA letters typically need to be renewed annually. They are typically considered valid for one year from the date of issuance. Renewing your ESA letter ensures the continued recognition of your emotional support animal and the associated benefits.

Consultations for obtaining an ESA letter in Illinois typically involve a discussion with a licensed medical provider or mental health professional. This discussion can take place online. During the consultation, the medical provider or mental health professional will assess your condition, evaluate the therapeutic benefits of an emotional support animal, and, if appropriate, provide you with the necessary ESA letter.

No, you generally cannot use the same ESA letter to register multiple pets. Each ESA letter typically covers one specific emotional support animal. If you have multiple ESAs, you would need separate ESA letters, each specifically identifying and prescribing the need for an individual animal.

Yes, an existing pet can qualify as an emotional support animal in Illinois if a licensed medical provider or mental health professional determines that the pet provides the necessary emotional support and comfort for your mental or emotional well-being. The pet does not need to be a specific breed or species to serve as an ESA.

If your landlord denies your pet despite having a legitimate ESA letter in Illinois, you should consider seeking legal advice. You have rights under the Fair Housing Act, and if you believe your rights are being violated, you may need to file a complaint with the appropriate housing authority or a fair housing agency. They can provide guidance and assistance in addressing the situation and ensuring that you receive the accommodations to which you are entitled under the law.

Emotional Support Dog Breeds:
A Glimpse at Some of Illinois’ Best Companions

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Beagle

The Beagle claims its top spot in Illinois due to its lively personality and exceptional tracking abilities. With their friendly nature and strong olfactory senses, Beagles thrive as both devoted family companions and adept scent hounds. Their adaptability to various environments resonates with Illinoisans’ diverse lifestyles. Beagles’ affectionate demeanor and keen sense of smell contribute to their popularity as cherished partners. As a breed that perfectly embodies the state’s values of companionship and adaptability, Beagles have rightfully secured their position as well-suited and beloved companions for residents across the state.

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Boxer

In Illinois, the Boxer’s reputation as a top breed thrives due to its powerful strength and unwavering loyalty. With a vibrant personality and strong work ethic, Boxers excel as both devoted family companions and capable working dogs. Their adaptability resonates with the varied lifestyles of Illinoisans. Boxers’ protective instincts and affectionate demeanor contribute to their popularity as cherished partners. Embodying the state’s values of resilience and companionship, Boxers rightfully secure their place as well-suited and beloved companions for residents across Illinois.

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Bulldog

The Bulldog’s distinction as a top breed emerges from its unique charm and unwavering loyalty. With its resilient personality and enduring work ethic, Bulldogs excel as both beloved family companions and symbols of strength. Their versatility resonates with the diverse lifestyles of Illinoisans. Bulldogs’ protective instincts and affectionate nature contribute to their popularity as cherished partners. Embodying the state’s values of determination and companionship, Bulldogs have rightfully claimed their place as well-suited and beloved companions for individuals and families across Illinois.

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Golden Retriever

In Illinois, the Golden Retriever stands as a distinguished breed, cherished for its exceptional companionship and gentle demeanor. With their intelligence and remarkable versatility, Golden Retrievers excel as both beloved family members and adept search and rescue dogs. Their bond with the state’s rich history and agricultural heritage resonates with Illinois’ roots and diverse landscapes. Golden Retrievers’ affectionate nature and steadfast loyalty contribute to their popularity as cherished household pets. As a breed that perfectly embodies Illinois’ values of community and resilience, Golden Retrievers have rightfully secured their place as esteemed and well-loved companions for individuals and families across the state.

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Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever holds a distinguished position as a top breed, celebrated for its unmatched combination of intelligence and amiability. With their remarkable aptitude for learning and versatile skills, Labradors shine as adept assistance animals and beloved family companions. Their enthusiasm for outdoor activities aligns perfectly with the state’s diverse landscapes and recreational pursuits. Labradors’ affectionate demeanor and unwavering loyalty contribute to their popularity as treasured pets. As a breed that seamlessly embodies Illinois’ values of adaptability and camaraderie, Labradors have rightfully secured their place as esteemed and versatile companions for individuals and families across the state.

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Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer stands out as a top breed, celebrated for its lively personality and versatility. With an unwavering loyalty and quick wit, these Schnauzers excel as both devoted companions and diligent working dogs. Their adaptability to various environments resonates with the diversity of lifestyles embraced by Illinoisans. Endowed with an alert nature and playful demeanor, Miniature Schnauzers have won the hearts of families across the state. Their blend of intelligence and affection perfectly reflects the values of companionship and adaptability, solidifying their place as treasured four-legged friends in the hearts of Illinois residents.

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Poodle

In Illinois, the Poodle stands as a distinguished breed, capturing hearts with its exquisite charm and remarkable versatility. Renowned for its intelligence and agility, the Poodle excels in various activities, from performing in dog shows to engaging in playful family moments. Its hypoallergenic coat and refined appearance resonate well with Illinoisans who appreciate both elegance and practicality. With a history of serving as both a loyal companion and a skilled performer, the Poodle embodies adaptability, mirroring the state’s dynamic urban and rural landscapes. This breed’s affectionate nature and quick wit align with Illinois’s friendly and enterprising spirit. Poodles have rightfully secured their position as cherished companions in households across the state, embodying the essence of grace and companionship.

Unleash Adventure and Serenity:
Top Destinations in Illinois for ESA Letter Holders

Chicago, Illinois

As the largest city in the Midwest, Chicago offers a wide variety of cultural, culinary, and outdoor attractions. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, take a walk in Millennium Park and see the famous “Cloud Gate” sculpture, or enjoy the city’s skyline from a boat on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan. The city also offers a vibrant food scene, ranging from deep-dish pizza to high-end dining.

Springfield, Illinois

The capital of Illinois is known for its rich history, particularly related to Abraham Lincoln, who lived here before his presidency. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, tour the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, or see the Old State Capitol

Galena, Illinois

This charming small town is known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Its Main Street is filled with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Visit the Ulysses S. Grant Home, enjoy a local winery, or partake in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or skiing in the surrounding area.

Explore Local ESA Letter Guidance for the State of Illinois