Delavan-area residents who qualify for Illinois’ Benefit Access Program can now begin preparing their 2026 applications, which provide a reduced cost license plate sticker and, for those living in communities with public transit, a Ride Free Transit Card.

The program allows eligible residents to purchase one vehicle’s license plate sticker for $10. Those who applied and were approved in 2024 should note that their approval covered 2024 and 2025 only. Renewal is required this year, and returning applicants must reapply within 90 days before the expiration date printed on their 2024 certificate.

Who Qualifies

New and returning applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be an Illinois resident
• Be 65 or older, or 16 or older with a qualifying disability
• Meet the income limits below: 
• $33,562 for a one person household
• $44,533 for a two person household
• $55,500 for a three person household

Local Assistance Available

To help residents navigate the application process, Mel Clauser, a volunteer with the Central Illinois Agency on Aging, will offer in person assistance at The Glenn Allen and Robert Culbertson, Jr. Community Hub, located at 212 Locust St., just south of Ayer Public Library.

Clauser will be available Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., by appointment only, beginning January 27.

Appointments may be scheduled by calling Ayer Public Library at 309-244-8236.

What to Bring

Applicants should bring documentation for themselves, their spouse, and any Qualified Additional Resident, including:

• Social Security number
• Birth date
• Current residential address
• Proof of disability (if applicable)
• 2024 federal income tax return, if filed
• All 2024 1099s and W 2s

Applications submitted before April 15, 2026, must use 2024 income information. Applications filed after April 15 must use 2025 income data.

This assistance is offered at no charge.