Prairie State Promise: Illinois's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

Illinois demonstrates a profound commitment to its veteran population with a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to provide significant financial relief, educational advancement, and crucial long-term care. Administered by the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA), these programs stand as a testament to the state's gratitude. While the personal value of each benefit varies, a clear top tier emerges based on monetary impact, broad applicability, and life-altering support.

Here are the top ten, most valuable veterans benefits offered through the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Disabled Veterans' Homestead Property Tax Exemption: Arguably the most valuable financial benefit, this program provides a substantial reduction in a home's Equalized Assessed Value (EAV). The exemption amount is tiered: veterans with a 30-49% disability receive a $2,500 reduction, those with 50-69% receive a $5,000 reduction, and veterans with a 70% or greater service-connected disability are completely exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence. This can save thousands of dollars annually.
2. Illinois Veterans' Grant (IVG): A cornerstone of the state's educational support, the IVG program pays eligible tuition and mandatory fees at all Illinois public colleges and universities for qualified veterans. With the ever-rising cost of higher education, this grant provides a debt-free path to a degree or certificate, representing an enormous financial value.
3. State Veterans' Homes: Illinois operates five State Veterans' Homes in Anna, Chicago, LaSalle, Manteno, and Quincy. These facilities provide affordable, high-quality long-term skilled nursing care for veterans. Given the high cost of private long-term care, access to these dedicated, veteran-centric homes is an invaluable resource for aging veterans and their families.
4. Full Exemption of Military Retirement Pay from State Income Tax: Illinois does not tax any federally-taxed military retirement pay or military disability pay. This allows retired veterans to keep 100% of their hard-earned pension and benefits, free from state taxation, a significant financial advantage that boosts annual income.
5. MIA/POW Scholarship: This powerful scholarship provides free tuition at Illinois public colleges and universities for the dependents of veterans who are declared prisoners of war, are missing in action, died from a service-connected disability, or are 100% permanently and totally disabled. This benefit offers an incredible educational opportunity to families who have made immense sacrifices.
6. Veterans' Employment Preference: When applying for state jobs, veterans receive preference in the hiring process. Points are added to their initial examination scores, giving them a significant advantage over other applicants in securing stable and rewarding state employment.
7. "VETERAN" Designation on Driver's License/ID Card: Illinois offers a "VETERAN" designation on state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards for a small fee. This simple but crucial benefit serves as official proof of veteran status, unlocking access to countless private-sector discounts, services, and programs offered as a gesture of gratitude.
8. Specially Adapted Housing Tax Exemption: Veterans who have received a federal Specially Adapted Housing Grant (or the special housing adaptation grant) are exempt from property taxes on the value of the home's adaptation. This prevents veterans from being penalized with higher taxes for medically necessary home modifications.
9. Free Hunting & Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: Illinois residents who are disabled veterans can receive a free hunting and fishing license. This benefit encourages participation in outdoor recreational activities and provides a valuable quality-of-life perk.
10. Burial in a State Veterans' Cemetery: While federal veterans' cemeteries exist, Illinois offers burial benefits for veterans at state-run cemeteries, easing the financial and emotional burden on families during a difficult time. This includes a plot and interment at no cost to the family.

These premier benefits showcase the State of Illinois's robust support for its veteran community. For detailed eligibility requirements and to connect with a Veteran Service Officer for assistance, veterans are encouraged to visit the official website of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs.

Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs

Address: 
833 South Spring Street 
P.O. Box 19432 
Springfield, IL 62794-9432

Toll Free Phone: 1-800-437-9824
Phone: 1-217-782-6641

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Guide