They asked my salary range, what should I say? after 8 years as a production planner

I have been out of work for 23 weeks and feel pressure to accept less. This is my first time dealing with any of this. I looked up ranges in Chicago and they vary a lot. Does giving a range hurt?

Benefits matter too. A slightly lower rate with better coverage was better for me.

Check several sources for pay in Chicago, then pick a range where the low end is one you can live with.