Illinois is home to nearly half a million veterans, which represents a significant portion of the state’s population. To ensure these individuals and their families are supported, the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), along with other state agencies, offers numerous benefits that span housing, education, employment, and more. These programs aim to assist veterans—whether disabled or not—and their families in managing the challenges they face after military service.
“Illinois has one of the most comprehensive sets of benefits for veterans in the country, and these programs are critical in supporting veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve,” says Mark Harris, a veterans’ advocate in Illinois.
This article will provide an overview of some of the most valuable Illinois veterans benefits that residents of the state can access. From housing grants and tax exemptions to educational scholarships and employment assistance, Illinois veterans have access to resources that help them transition into civilian life, maintain financial security, and honor their service.
Overview: Key Illinois Veterans Benefits
| Benefit | Details | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois Veterans Homes | Five state-operated homes providing care for veterans, including a new women’s veterans’ home in 2026. | All Illinois veterans, with varying levels of care based on needs. |
| Specially Adapted Housing Grant | Grants up to $18,000 to assist with home modifications for veterans with permanent disabilities. | Veterans who qualify for the federal Specially Adapted Housing Grant. |
| Veterans’ Dependents Scholarship | Full college tuition and fees for the dependents of deceased, disabled, or MIA/POW veterans. | Dependents of eligible veterans. |
| Wartime Bonus Payments | One-time bonus payments for veterans who served in specific conflicts. | Veterans of WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, and Global War on Terrorism. |
| Income Tax Exemptions | Exemption for military pay, retirement pay, and disability pay from state income taxes. | Illinois residents on active duty, retirees, or receiving disability benefits. |
| Veterans’ Employment Preferences | Special hiring preferences for Illinois state government positions. | Veterans who meet specific criteria, including preference points on state exams. |
Are There Illinois Veterans Benefits for Housing?
Illinois provides significant housing benefits to veterans, ensuring that they have access to affordable living spaces, tax exemptions, and specialized housing assistance.
Illinois Veterans Homes
There are five veterans’ homes operated by the state of Illinois, offering varying levels of care. These homes include:
- Anna
- Chicago
- LaSalle
- Manteno
- Quincy
A new women’s veterans’ home on the Manteno campus is expected to open in 2026.
“The Illinois veterans’ homes offer essential services, from independent living to 24/7 care, and will play a key role in supporting veterans who require assistance,” says Linda King, a former director of the Illinois Veterans Home in Chicago.
Specially Adapted Housing Grants
For veterans with permanent disabilities, Illinois offers Specially Adapted Housing Grants to help modify homes to accommodate their disabilities. These grants include:
- $15,000 Grant: To acquire suitable housing.
- Up to $3,000 Grant: For modifying an existing home.
What State Financial Benefits Are Available to Illinois Veterans?
Illinois offers various financial benefits to veterans, including one-time bonus payments, income tax exemptions, and assistance for survivors.
Wartime Bonus Payments
Illinois provides bonus payments to veterans who served in specific conflicts:
- WWII Veterans: $10 per month for domestic service, $15 per month for foreign service.
- Korean, Vietnam, Gulf War, and Global War on Terrorism Veterans: A $100 bonus for qualifying service.
Income Tax Exemptions
Veterans and their families can benefit from income tax exemptions, including exemptions for military pay, retirement pay, and disability pay. These exemptions help reduce the tax burden for veterans living in Illinois.
Are There Illinois Veterans Education Benefits for Veterans and Dependents?
Illinois offers robust educational benefits to veterans and their families, making higher education more accessible and affordable.
Veterans’ Dependents Scholarship
The Veterans’ Dependents Scholarship offers full tuition and mandatory fees for the dependents of deceased, disabled, or MIA/POW veterans at any state-supported Illinois college.
Illinois Veterans’ Grant (IVG)
The Illinois Veterans’ Grant (IVG) provides veterans with full tuition coverage for Illinois-supported colleges. To qualify, veterans must:
- Be honorably discharged
- Reside in Illinois for six months before entering service or be a long-term Illinois resident
- Have at least one year of active duty service
Illinois National Guard Grant
The Illinois National Guard Grant offers tuition assistance for Illinois National Guard members and former members, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including active service in the Illinois National Guard and a minimum of one year of service.
Are There Illinois Veterans Benefits for Employment?
Illinois offers various programs to help veterans transition to civilian careers and gain meaningful employment.
Qualifying for State Professional Licenses with Military Training
Illinois recognizes the value of military training and allows veterans to use their military experience to meet state licensing requirements in fields like medicine, firefighting, and law enforcement. Veterans may be eligible for certifications or licenses without needing additional education, provided they pass the required competency exams.
“Illinois is leading the way in helping veterans transition into civilian careers by ensuring their military experience counts toward professional licensing,” says Michael Ortiz, a director of military veterans affairs at a local college.
Veterans’ Hiring Preference
Veterans applying for state government jobs in Illinois receive hiring preference, with up to 10 additional points added to their exam score, depending on the specifics of their service. This preference helps veterans gain competitive advantages in the state’s hiring process.
Are There Illinois Veterans Benefits for Recreation?
Illinois offers veterans and their families access to outdoor recreation through hunting, fishing, and state park programs.
State Hunting and Fishing Licenses
Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher, or those receiving a total disability pension, are eligible for free hunting and fishing licenses. Veterans who served overseas or were mobilized by the President also qualify for discounted licenses.
State Parks and Recreation Passes
Disabled veterans and former POWs are eligible for exemptions from camping and admission fees in any state park managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Are There Illinois Veterans Benefits for Burial?
When a veteran passes away, Illinois offers several options to assist with the costs of burial and memorialization.
Grave Registration
Survivors of veterans can have their loved one’s name registered in the Roll of Honor, an official record of veterans buried in Illinois.
Headstone or Grave Marker Reimbursement
Illinois offers a $125 reimbursement for the transportation and installation of a VA-provided headstone or marker at the veteran’s burial site.
“Illinois provides meaningful ways to honor veterans even after their passing, helping survivors manage costs and keep their loved ones’ memories alive,” says Susan Mitchell, a funeral director specializing in veterans’ services.
Final Thought
Illinois provides comprehensive benefits that support veterans across multiple areas, including housing, education, employment, recreation, and burial. With these resources, veterans and their families can access essential services that ease the transition from military to civilian life. By taking advantage of the programs offered by the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) and other state institutions, veterans can ensure they receive the care, support, and opportunities they deserve.
FAQs
What housing benefits are available for Illinois veterans?
Illinois offers housing grants, property tax exemptions, and access to state-run veterans’ homes for eligible veterans.
Can Illinois veterans receive free college tuition?
Yes, veterans and their dependents can receive free tuition at Illinois state-supported colleges through the Illinois Veterans’ Grant and the Veterans’ Dependents Scholarship.
Are there income tax exemptions for Illinois veterans?
Yes, Illinois veterans are exempt from paying state income tax on military pay, retirement pay, and disability pay.
How can Illinois veterans receive help with employment?
Veterans are eligible for hiring preferences for state government jobs and can have their military training count toward professional licenses.
Are there recreational benefits for Illinois veterans?
Veterans with a disability rating of 10% or higher are eligible for free hunting and fishing licenses, and they are also exempt from camping fees in Illinois state parks.
