Proof of Eligibility

The Illinois Arts Council provides public funding to Illinois residents and not-for-profit organizations. Applicants must include proof of eligibility at the time of application. For submission with electronic applications, the appropriate document must be saved as a PDF file to be uploaded as an attachment in the Illinois eGrant system.

Organizations must submit one of the following:

• Online Proof
• Annual Report
• Certificate of Good Standing

Branches of Government (e.g., Municipal, County, Libraries, Park Districts, etc) must submit one of the following:

• a copy of the enabling legislation
• a letter from the appropriate governmental body on its letterhead stating that the applicant is an official agency or branch of government

Charitable Trusts must submit one of the following:

• a current Charitable Organization Supplement (Form AG990-IL)
• a letter from the Attorney General verifying current good standing

Schools and Religious Organizations must submit a letter claiming exemption because such organizations are not required to be incorporated. This letter must be signed by the authorizing official on the organization's letterhead.

PTOs, PTAs and other School Affiliate Organizations must submit a letter from the affiliated school on school letterhead acknowledging this affiliation. This letter must be signed by the school principal or authorizing official.

Individuals
Applicants must submit a copy of one of the following:

• Illinois driver’s license which includes the date issued and expiration date (entire front and back);
• State of Illinois identification card which includes the date issued and expiration date; (entire front and back);
• Illinois state income tax forms for the most recent year;
• Illinois Voter Registration card

If unsure about the correct eligibility documents, please contact the Grants Office.

The IAC will institute new Not-for-Profit requirements for FY14. Begin planning now to comply with these changes.