Employment Resource Guide
I’ve heard from our neighbors across Central and Northwestern Illinois who are struggling to stay afloat, especially after they have lost their job or had a sudden change in their expenses. Too many of our neighbors feel left behind and like the economy isn’t working for them. To put it simply, they’re right. Since coming to Congress, I’ve centered my work around ensuring that anyone looking for a good-paying job can find one. Part of that means providing access to information and resources to help people find new jobs when they may need them.
My team is here for you. One of the most important parts of my job as your representative for the Illinois 17th Congressional District is helping neighbors access resources offered by the federal government. I hope the resources below can be of use to you. Please don’t ever hesitate to contact my office if we can ever be of help to you.
DISTRICT RESOURCES
Staff in Congressman Sorensen’s offices in Rock Island, Rockford, and Peoria are here to help you. To request help with a federal agency, please follow the link here.
IL-17 District Offices
Rock Island District Office
2401 4th Avenue
Rock Island, IL 61201
(309) 786-3406
Rockford District Office
401 E. State Street
Ground Floor
Rockford, IL 61104
(779) 513-4960
Peoria District Office
Conductor's Quarters Building
403-1/2 NE Jefferson Street
Peoria, IL 61603
(309) 621-7070
EMERGENCY UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE
Losing a job is one of the hardest things life can throw at you. Below is information on how you can apply for emergency unemployment insurance.
In Illinois, unemployment benefits are administered by the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). Follow the link below in order to learn about the eligibility requirements and claimant process for unemployment benefits.
IDES Unemployment Requirements
IL17 IDES OFFICES
IDES has regional offices across Illinois; offices located in the Illinois 17th Congressional District are listed below. Please note: to schedule an in-person appointment you must request a callback via the Scheduling Hotline below.
Claimant Services: 1-800-244-5631
Scheduling Hotline: 217-558=0401
ROCKFORD
303 N Main St, 3rd Flr
Rockford, IL 61101
(217) 558-0401
STERLING
406 Avenue C
Sterling, IL 61081
(217) 558-0401
ROCK ISLAND
500 42nd St, Suite 1
Rock Island, IL 61201
(217) 558-0401
PEORIA
406 Elm St
Peoria, IL 61605
(217) 558-0401
GETTING HELP WITH UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS
If you’re experiencing issues with or have questions regarding your unemployment insurance, please contact either your State Elected Officials (State Senator and State Representatives) or the Governor’s constituent services team for additional help. Your state-level representatives are there to assist you with state agencies such as IDES.
Find your State Elected Official by using this tool provided by the Illinois State Board of Elections. Simply type in your address, click “OK” in the bottom right-hand corner, and then navigate to either “State Senator” or “State Representative”. Click on Website where you will be directed to their Illinois General Assembly contact information page.
You may also request assistance from the Governor’s constituent service team by clicking here:
Governor’s Office Assistance Request
FINDING A NEW JOB
The State of Illinois publishes local resources that are available if you are looking for a new job.
ILLINOIS JOB LINK
“Offered through the Illinois Department of Employment Security, IL Job Link serves as a database of job openings throughout the State of IL. Search for jobs for free and create an account to apply!”
ILLINOIS WORKNET AFFILIATES & BRANCHES
Launched in 2005, Illinois workNet is your source for career-building and workforce development. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and made possible through state, local, and private sector partnerships. See the list of IL17 workNet offices below, to find the physical location closest to you. Alternatively, you could Sign Up for an online workNet account HERE.
The Workforce Connection - Rockford
303 N Main St, 3rd Floor
Rockford, IL 61101
(815) 847 7574
Serves Winnebago, Boone, & Stephenson Counties
The Workforce Connection Temporary Freeport Office
210 W. Spring Street
Stephenson Room
Freeport, IL 61032
815-315-1830
Serves Stephenson County
American Job Center of Rock Island
500 42nd Street, Suite #6
Rock Island, IL 61201
(309) 429 6429
Serves Rock Island, Henry & Mercer Counties
81 Public Square
Monmouth, IL 61462
309-734-4745
Serves Adams, Brown, Hancock, Henderson, Knox, McDonough, Pike, Schuyler, and Warren Counties
Career Link
Serves Peoria, Fulton, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford Counties. Follow link and scroll to the bottom to find information on the Career Link Office closest to you.
IL17 COUNTY
ADDITIONAL EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES
USAJOBS connects job seekers with Federal government opportunities across the United States and around the world. Discover what opportunities are available by clicking the link above.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to fill crucial roles. These include scientists to combat climate change, engineers to repair and rebuild roads and bridges, and workers to ensure every community has clean water, among other priorities.
Operated by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management,
Veteran’s Employment Training Service
The Veteran’s Employment Training Service provides America's veterans, service members, and military spouses with employment resources and expertise, protects their employment rights, and promotes their employment opportunities.
HOUSING, BILLS, & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Keeping your head above water when in between jobs is one of the hardest things life can throw at you. Please see the information below to see if they may be of help to you in these tough times.
Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program – Illinois Housing Development Authority
The Illinois Court-Based Rental Assistance Program, or CBRAP, provides funding to Illinois tenants and housing providers/ landlords across Illinois who have pending cases in eviction court.
Applicants may qualify for up to $15,000 in emergency rental payments, which can cover past due rent, up to $500 in court costs, and up to two months' future rent to prevent eviction.
Use the link below to begin your application.
Illinois Home Energy Assistance
If you need assistance with rent, food, energy, utility bills, employment training/placement, financial management, or temporary shelter, you may be eligible for financial help.
Follow the website’s directions to locate your county and contact your local representative.
Illinois Housing Development Authority
IHDA provides current or prospective homeowners with information on receiving loans, affordable housing, affordable housing tax credits, home repairs, and financial assistance.
USA.gov offers a free and secure credit score assessment offered by the Federal Government. Understanding your credit score and how to improve is important for assessing and planning your finances, potential loans, and future plans.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Mortgage Resources
Whether you are thinking of buying a home, already have a home loan, or are having trouble paying your mortgage, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides resources to help you every step of the way.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Approved Housing Counselors
Housing counselors throughout the country can provide advice on buying a home, renting, defaults, forbearances, foreclosures, and credit issues.
Through the Department of Housing and Urban Development provides a list of approved counseling agencies in your area. These agencies, approved by HUD, can offer independent advice, often at little or no cost to you.
There is also a list of nationwide HUD-approved counseling agencies .
Important to note that not every housing counselor offers all services, so please look at the list of services offered by each agency closely.
It's easier than ever to manage your energy costs, make your home safer and more comfortable, and help save the planet. Clean energy and energy-efficient consumer choices are now available to everyone, regardless of where you live. The Department of Energy is working to make these options more affordable and accessible.
Use the link above to explore available home upgrades, learn about switching to electric vehicles and the eligible tax incentives, and discover energy-saving tips to reduce your energy bill by minimizing energy loss and increasing efficiency.
Whether you're shopping for a new card or managing an existing one, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides the resources you need. They can help you get started, understand your situation, and take action.
Stop Mystery Fees on Your Credit Card
Managing your financial life means keeping track of your credit card changes. This includes monitoring purchases, refunds, and other transactions. Be sure to watch for any fees or additional charges that may appear. Please refer to this flyer for additional guidance.
Fix Mistakes on Your Credit Card Bill
Billing mistakes can happen. When they do, knowing how to fix them can save you money and time. Follow these five steps to dispute incorrect charges or fees.
What To Do If You Can’t Pay Your Credit Cards on Time
Call your credit card company immediately if you believe you can't make the minimum payment. Many companies are willing to help if you're facing a financial emergency. You don't need to be behind on your payments to ask for assistance. Please refer to this flyer for additional guidance.
Learn about your credit report and how to get a copy. Credit reports list your financial history. Find out how to request your reports, what information they include, and how lenders and other organization may use them.
As of 2024, the state of Illinois is holding over 5 billion dollars in unclaimed funds for Illinoisans. Find what’s yours above!
Consumer protection basics can be simple. This resource helps you manage and use your money wisely, use credit and loans carefully, and protect your identity and money.
This resource highlights tools when you are unable to pay your bills, specifically providing guidance on managing your budget, monitoring your credit score, and much more.
Township Emergency Assistance
Some Illinois townships offer emergency assistance programs to residents who meet certain criteria. Contact your local township officials to see if this is a program that they offer, and how you can apply.
To find your township, please follow these steps offered by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Search for more assistance including for telephone bills, utilities and more.
Health Insurance Info
U.S. Department of Labor – Employment Benefits Security Administration
For those recently unemployed, you may still be eligible to keep your health insurance plan. The Department of Labor’s COBRA continuation of coverage program may be able to provide more information.
Find out if you qualify today: (866)-444-3272
Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP)
The Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) and Medicaid could provide your child or teenager health insurance coverage, a local dentist, and mental health resources at low/no cost.
For those affected by surprise un-fair medical billing, the No Surprises Help Desk at (800) 985 3059 could help you contest these charges.
Additional Help
One of the most important parts of my job as the representative for Illinois 17th Congressional District is helping our neighbors resolve issues with the federal government. My staff and I work tirelessly to solve constituents’ concerns related to taxes, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, and more. For any other questions, my team is here to help.