Illinois Veteran Benefits: State Benefits Guide

• For a veteran rated 70 percent or more, a home with an equalized assessed value (EAV) at or under $250,000 is fully exempt, and for a higher value the first $250,000 of EAV is exempt (35 ILCS 200/15-169(b-3.1), taxable year 2023 and after). The statute’s own words are that the first $250,000 in equalized assessed value is exempt, so the exemption is capped at $250,000 of equalized assessed value (EAV), and the rating is read on the date you apply. Calculator and steps: Illinois disabled veteran property tax exemption.

  “if the veteran has a service connected disability of 70% or more, as certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as of the date the application is submitted for the exemption under this Section for the applicable taxable year, then the first $250,000 in equalized assessed value of the property is exempt from taxation under this Code; and” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(b-3.1)(3))

• $2,500 at 30 to 49 percent and $5,000 at 50 to 69 percent of equalized assessed value. These amounts are for taxable year 2023 and after, and each uses the rating the VA certifies on the date the application is submitted. Compare every state’s rule in the disabled veteran property tax exemption guide.

  “if the veteran has a service connected disability of 30% or more but less than 50%, as certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as of the date the application is submitted for the exemption under this Section for the applicable taxable year, then the annual exemption is $2,500;” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(b-3.1)(1))

• At 50 percent or more but less than 70 percent the annual exemption is $5,000 of EAV.

  “if the veteran has a service connected disability of 50% or more but less than 70%, as certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as of the date the application is submitted for the exemption under this Section for the applicable taxable year, then the annual exemption is $5,000;” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(b-3.1)(2))

• The disability must be a current one for which the veteran receives disability compensation, shown by the VA certification, so a rating without compensation does not count.

  “"Service-connected disability" means an illness or injury (i) that was caused by or worsened by active military service, (ii) that is a current disability as of the date of the application for the exemption under this Section for the applicable tax year, as demonstrated by the veteran's United States Department of Veterans Affairs certification, and (iii) for which the veteran receives disability compensation.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(f))

• The home must be the veteran’s primary residence, and any part used for commercial purposes does not qualify.

  “"Qualified residence" means, for tax year 2023 and thereafter, real property, but less any portion of that property that is used for commercial purposes, that is the primary residence of a veteran with a disability.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(f))

• Property rented for more than 6 months is presumed to be used for commercial purposes.

  “Property rented for more than 6 months is presumed to be used for commercial purposes.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(f))

• For taxable years 2023 and thereafter, a veteran is an Illinois resident who served on active duty or State active duty, in the Illinois National Guard or in the U.S. Reserve Forces, and who has a VA-certified service-connected disability and receives disability compensation. The discharge test applied only through tax year 2022.

  “For taxable years 2023 and thereafter, "veteran" means an Illinois resident who has served as a member of the United States Armed Forces on active duty or State active duty, a member of the Illinois National Guard, or a member of the United States Reserve Forces and who has a service-connected disability, as certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and receives disability compensation.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(f))

• Carries over to the unremarried surviving spouse while the spouse holds title and lives on the property; a spouse of a veteran who died of a service-connected cause and receives DIC may also qualify. A surviving spouse of a veteran whose death was determined service-connected and who is certified as a recipient of dependency and indemnity compensation also gets the first $250,000 of EAV from taxable year 2023.

  “The tax exemption under this Section carries over to the benefit of the veteran's surviving spouse as long as the spouse holds the legal or beneficial title to the homestead, permanently resides thereon, and does not remarry.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(c) and (b-3.1)(4))

• For taxable year 2023 and after the statute names four kinds of surviving spouse: (i) the spouse of a veteran who obtained the exemption before death; (ii) the spouse of a veteran killed in the line of duty; (iii) the spouse of a veteran who never obtained the exemption but would have qualified had the veteran survived, if the spouse has lived in Illinois since the veteran’s death through the taxable year; and (iv) the spouse of a veteran whose death was determined service-connected, if the spouse is certified as a recipient of dependency and indemnity compensation and remains eligible for it as of January 1 of the taxable year.

  “(i) the surviving spouse of a veteran who obtained the exemption under this Section prior to his or her death; (ii) the surviving spouse of a veteran who was killed in the line of duty at any time prior to the expiration of the application period in effect for the exemption for the taxable year for which the exemption is sought; (iii) the surviving spouse of a veteran who did not obtain an exemption under this Section before death, but who would have qualified for the exemption under this Section in the taxable year for which the exemption is sought if he or she had survived, and whose surviving spouse has been a resident of Illinois from the time of the veteran's death through the taxable year for which the exemption is sought; and (iv) the surviving spouse of a veteran whose death was determined to be service-connected, but who would not otherwise qualify under item (i), (ii), or (iii), if the spouse (A) is certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as a recipient of dependency and indemnity compensation under federal law at any time prior to the expiration of the application period in effect for the exemption for the taxable year for which the exemption is sought and (B) remains eligible for that dependency and indemnity compensation as of January 1 of the taxable year for which the exemption is sought.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(c)(3))

• From taxable year 2024, the property of a veteran who was a member of the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II is exempt, with no minimum level of disability. The definition of a veteran for 2023 and after in subsection (f) still requires a service-connected disability certified by the VA and disability compensation, so the veteran still needs a rated disability for which compensation is paid. This matches the Illinois property tax page. The Department of Revenue’s summary says only “regardless of the veteran’s disability level”, and the county assessor decides eligibility.

  “For taxable years on or after 2024, if the veteran was a member of the United States Armed Forces during World War II, then the property is exempt from taxation under this Code regardless of the veteran's level of disability.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(b-4) and (f))

• Each taxpayer who has been granted the exemption must reapply every year during the application period in effect for the county of residence, except a veteran who qualifies through World War II service.

  “Except as otherwise provided in this subsection (e), each taxpayer who has been granted an exemption under this Section must reapply on an annual basis, except that a veteran who qualifies as a result of his or her service in World War II need not reapply.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(e))

• A veteran with a combined 100 percent rating who is deemed permanently and totally disabled, as the VA certifies, no longer has to reapply each year.

  “On and after May 23, 2022 (the effective date of Public Act 102-895), if a veteran has a combined service connected disability rating of 100% and is deemed to be permanently and totally disabled, as certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the taxpayer who has been granted an exemption under this Section shall no longer be required to reapply for the exemption on an annual basis, and the exemption shall be in effect for as long as the exemption would otherwise be permitted under this Section.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(e))

• A taxpayer cannot take this exemption together with the specially adapted housing exemption (section 15-165) or the section 15-168 exemption.

  “A taxpayer who claims an exemption under Section 15-165 or 15-168 may not claim an exemption under this Section.” (35 ILCS 200/15-169(d))

• A returning veteran gets a $5,000 reduction in EAV on a principal residence upon returning from active duty in an armed conflict involving the armed forces of the United States, for two consecutive tax years: the year the veteran returns and the following year.

  “This exemption provides a $5,000 reduction in the EAV of a veteran's principal residence upon returning from active duty in an armed conflict involving the armed forces of the United States.” (IDOR, Property Tax Relief (Returning Veterans’ Homestead Exemption))

• The veteran must own and occupy the property as the principal residence on January 1 of each assessment year, and a veteran who buys a principal residence after January 1 of the year of return is eligible the following tax year.

  “The veteran must own and occupy the property as his or her principal residence on January 1 of each assessment year.” (IDOR, Property Tax Relief (Returning Veterans’ Homestead Exemption))

• Apply on Form PTAX-341 with the Chief County Assessment Office. A veteran can qualify again in another tax year in which the veteran returns from active duty.

  “Applicants must file a Form PTAX-341, Application for Returning Veterans' Homestead Exemption, with the Chief County Assessment Office.” (IDOR, Property Tax Relief (Returning Veterans’ Homestead Exemption))

• Specially adapted housing: property up to an assessed value of $100,000 that a veteran with a disability, or the spouse or unmarried surviving spouse, owns and uses exclusively as a home is exempt, where the federal government has authorized payment for specially adapted housing under 38 U.S.C. 2101. This is a cap of $100,000 of assessed value, not a full exemption.

  “Property up to an assessed value of $100,000, owned and used exclusively by a veteran with a disability, or the spouse or unmarried surviving spouse of the veteran, as a home, is exempt.” (35 ILCS 200/15-165 (Internet Archive copy))

• For the same tax year, a property cannot receive the specially adapted housing exemption (15-165), the standard exemption for veterans with disabilities (15-169) or the Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities (15-168). Section 15-169(d) above says the same for 15-165 and 15-168, and IDOR’s page says it for a single tax year.

  “For a single tax year, the property cannot receive this exemption and the Veterans with Disabilities Exemption for Specially Adapted Housing or the Homestead Exemption for Persons with Disabilities.” (IDOR, Property Tax Relief (Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities))

• Under the Disabled Veterans Housing Act, an eligible veteran can receive a single lump sum payment of up to $15,000 toward a suitable dwelling unit with special fixtures or movable facilities made necessary by a permanent and total disability.

  “Under this act, eligible veterans may be granted a single lump sum payment not to exceed $15,000 to provide assistance in acquiring a suitable dwelling unit with special fixtures and/or movable facilities made necessary by the veteran's permanent and total disability.” (IDVA, Veterans’ Homes (Housing Benefits, 330 ILCS 65))

• The veteran must be certified by the VA for the federal Specially Adapted Housing Grant and must have been an Illinois resident when entering service.

  “To be eligible, the veteran must be certified eligible by the VA for the federal Specially Adapted Housing Grant and the veteran must have been a resident of the State of Illinois at the time he or she entered the service.” (IDVA, Veterans’ Homes (Housing Benefits, 330 ILCS 65))

• Military retirement income is subtracted on Form IL-1040, Line 5. Illinois subtracts only the federally taxed portion, so military retirement income that is in your federal income is subtracted and income that is not in your federal income is not. Publication 120 says government retirement, including military plans, and does not name Survivor Benefit Plan annuities. See how every state taxes military retired pay.

  “You may subtract the amount of any federally taxed portion (not the gross amount) included in your Form IL-1040, Line 1 that you received from” (IDOR Publication 120, General Information)

• The list of subtractable income includes government retirement and government disability plans, including military plans, reported as wages on the federal return, Line 1z.

  “a government retirement and government disability plan, including military plans, reported as wages on your U.S. 1040 or 1040-SR, Line 1z.” (IDOR Publication 120, General Information)

• Attach a copy of pages 1 and 2 of your federal return to support the subtraction for government retirement, including military plans, on Form IL-1040, Line 5.

  “U.S. 1040 or 1040-SR, Pages 1 and 2 to support your subtraction for income from” (IDOR Publication 120, attachments)

• The Illinois Veterans’ Grant pays tuition and mandatory fees at Illinois state-supported colleges, universities and community colleges for an eligible Illinois veteran.

  “The Illinois Veterans' Grant (IVG) Program pays tuition and mandatory fees at all Illinois state-supported colleges, universities and community colleges for eligible Illinois veterans.” (IDVA, Illinois Veterans’ Grant)

• The veteran must have an honorable discharge for the most recent period of federal active duty (or be honorably serving) and at least one full year of active duty, or have been assigned to active duty in a foreign country in a time of hostilities there, regardless of the length of service.

  “Have at least one full year of active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces. This includes veterans who were assigned to active duty in a foreign country in a time of hostilities in that country, regardless of length of service;” (IDVA, Illinois Veterans’ Grant)

• The veteran must have lived in Illinois six months before entering the service, or have been an Illinois resident for at least 15 consecutive years after leaving active duty as of the date of application.

  “Reside in Illinois six months before entering the service; or a resident of Illinois for at least 15 consecutive years after leaving active duty as of the date of application” (IDVA, Illinois Veterans’ Grant)

• The veteran must also have returned to Illinois within six months of discharge.

  “Return to Illinois within six months of discharge from the service;” (IDVA, Illinois Veterans’ Grant)

• A spouse or child of a veteran who is missing in action, was a prisoner of war, died of a service-connected disability, or is 100 percent permanently disabled from service gets a scholarship covering tuition and mandatory fees at a state-supported Illinois college or university for the equivalent of 4 years of enrollment, including summer terms.

  “The holder of a MIA/POW Scholarship authorized under this Section shall not be required to pay any tuition or mandatory fees while attending a State-controlled university or public community college in this State for a period equivalent to 4 years of enrollment, including summer terms.” (105 ILCS 5/30-14.2(a) (Internet Archive copy))

• IDVA lists the tests: the veteran was Missing in Action, was a prisoner of war, is rated 100 percent permanently and totally disabled by service-connected causes (including by unemployability), or the veteran’s death is rated service connected by the VA.

  “(3) Veteran must be rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs (USDVA) as being 100% permanent and totally disabled by service connected causes” (IDVA, Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Scholarship, Eligibility)

• The veteran must have been an Illinois resident when entering active service or within six months after entering, or have been a resident of Illinois for at least 15 consecutive years after entering active duty as of the date of application.

  “The veteran must have been an Illinois resident at the time of entering active military service, an Illinois resident within six months after entering active military service, or a resident of Illinois for at least 15 consecutive years after entering active duty as of the date of application.” (IDVA, Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Scholarship, Eligibility)

• If a surviving spouse remarries, or there is a divorce from the veteran, the benefit for the spouse and stepchildren ends on the date of the remarriage or divorce.

  “If the surviving spouse remarries or if there is a divorce from the veteran or serviceperson, the scholarship benefit for the remarried surviving spouse and stepchildren will terminate on the date of the remarriage or divorce.” (IDVA, Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Scholarship, Eligibility)

• If the remarriage or divorce happens while the spouse or stepchildren are pursuing a course of study, the benefit ends at the end of that term.

  “If the surviving spouse remarries or if there is a divorce from the veteran or serviceperson while the spouse and/or stepchildren are pursuing a course of study, scholarship benefits will be terminated at the end of the term for which they are presently enrolled.” (IDVA, Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Scholarship, Eligibility)

• The statute says the same for a dependent who is studying when the surviving spouse remarries or the marriage ends.

  “If the surviving spouse remarries or if there is a divorce between the veteran or serviceperson and his or her spouse while the dependent is pursuing his or her course of study, Scholarship benefits will be terminated at the end of the term for which he or she is presently enrolled.” (105 ILCS 5/30-14.2(a) (Internet Archive copy))

• The legislature changed how eligibility is decided: P.A. 104-0238 (House Bill 2572) says IDVA determines eligibility for this scholarship and the related grant by rule, effective January 1, 2026. The statute copy above was captured October 6, 2025, before that date, so it may not show the change; the rules in 95 Ill. Admin. Code 116 are not summarized here.

  “HB 2572 provides that the IDVA shall determine the eligibility of persons who apply for a Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Veterans' Dependents Scholarship (a post-secondary education program) or a Deceased, Disabled, and MIA/POW Veterans' Dependents Educational Opportunity Grant Act by rule. Effective 01/01/2026.” (IDVA, Recent Legislation (104th General Assembly))

• A $250 grant each year goes to each child aged 10 to 18 of a veteran who is MIA, a POW, died on active duty, is 100 percent disabled from service, or died of a service-connected disability.

  “Illinois annually provides a $250 grant for each child between the ages of 10-18 of veterans who are either MIA, a POW, died while on active duty, 100% disabled due to service connected disabilities or died as a result of a service connected disabilities.” (IDVA, Education (Educational Opportunity Grant))

• IDVA’s education page and IDVA’s benefits guide describe it differently. The education page lists one honorary scholarship per county each year at the University of Illinois for children of veterans of WWI, WWII and the Korean War.

  “Each county in the state shall be entitled, annually, to one honorary scholarship at the University of Illinois, for the benefit of children of veterans of WWI, WWII, Korean War.” (IDVA, Education (University of Illinois Children of Veterans Scholarship))

• IDVA’s benefits guide, in contrast, calls the University of Illinois program a four-year tuition waiver for children of service members who are veterans, and sends readers to the university’s financial aid office (osfa.illinois.edu) for the rules. Ask that office which description applies to you; this page does not state the program’s scope.

  “The Children of Veterans Tuition Waiver is a four-year consecutive in-state tuition waiver at the University of Illinois given to natural, step, or legally adopted children of service members who are veterans.” (IDVA benefits guide, Other State of Illinois Education Programs)

• A veteran with VA proof of a service-connected disability, and a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse certification that the disability qualifies the veteran for a disability plate or decal under section 3-616, can apply for license plates with the international symbol of access and pay no registration fee for one motor vehicle, one motorcycle or one second-division vehicle weighing not more than 8,000 pounds.

  “Any veteran who holds proof of a service-connected disability from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and who has obtained certification from a licensed physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse that the service-connected disability qualifies the veteran for issuance of registration plates or digital registration plates or decals to a person with disabilities in accordance with Section 3-616, may, without the payment of any registration fee, make application to the Secretary of State for license plates for veterans with disabilities displaying the international symbol of access, for the registration of one motor vehicle of the first division, one motorcycle, or one motor vehicle of the second division weighing not more than 8,000 pounds.” (625 ILCS 5/3-609(a) (Internet Archive copy))

• A veteran rated 50 percent or more whose disability does not qualify for a plate under section 3-616 can apply for a special plate without the international symbol of access, also without a registration fee and for the same vehicle types.

  “Any veteran who holds proof of a service-connected disability from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and whose degree of disability has been declared to be 50% or more, but whose disability does not qualify the veteran for a plate or decal for persons with disabilities under Section 3-616, may, without the payment of any registration fee, make application to the Secretary for a special registration plate or digital registration plate without the international symbol of access for the registration of one motor vehicle of the first division, one motorcycle, or one motor vehicle of the second division weighing not more than 8,000 pounds.” (625 ILCS 5/3-609(b) (Internet Archive copy))

• At renewal, the veteran must show documentation of eligibility unless the disability is a permanent qualifying one.

  “Renewal of such registration must be accompanied with documentation for eligibility of registration without fee unless the applicant has a permanent qualifying disability, and such registration plates or digital registration plates may not be issued to any person not eligible therefor.” (625 ILCS 5/3-609(c) (Internet Archive copy))

• A second set of plates costs the normal fee, except that a person approved for the Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities Property Tax Relief Act (or who received a grant under it) pays $24 instead for a passenger car, a vehicle registered at 8,000 pounds or less, or a recreational vehicle registered at 8,000 pounds or less.

  “Any person eligible to receive license plates under this Section who has been approved for benefits under the Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities Property Tax Relief Act, or who has claimed and received a grant under that Act, shall pay a fee of $24 instead of the fee otherwise provided in this Code for passenger cars displaying standard multi-year registration plates or digital registration plates issued under Section 3-414.1, for motor vehicles registered at 8,000 pounds or less under Section 3-815(a), or for recreational vehicles registered at 8,000 pounds or less under Section 3-815(b), for a second set of plates under this Section.” (625 ILCS 5/3-609(e) (Internet Archive copy))

• The Secretary of State’s fee table, captured August 2, 2025, shows $165 for the first set of plates when the vehicle is newly acquired (the $165 is the title fee). Section 3-609 waives the registration fee, not the title fee.

  “Newly acquired vehicle/first-time issuance $165 - 1st set of plates ( $165 title fee)” (Secretary of State, Disabled Veteran license plates, Fees (Internet Archive copy of August 2, 2025))

• For a vehicle that is already titled the same table shows $0 for the first set of plates, and $0 for the first set at annual renewal. The second set pays the registration fee in the table, which this page does not state because it is a 2025 figure.

  “Currently titled vehicle/first-time issuance $0 - 1st set of plates” (Secretary of State, Disabled Veteran license plates, Fees (Internet Archive copy of August 2, 2025))

• The Secretary of State asks for the VA rating letter in full, with a breakdown by diagnosis, and for the physician’s certification form. For the plates with the access symbol it requires a service-connected walking disability of at least 10 percent that matches the diagnosis on the certification.

  “There must be at least a 10% service-connected walking disability that matches the walking disability diagnosis on the Disabled Veteran Certification for Parking Placard/Plates.” (Secretary of State, Disabled Veteran license plates, To Apply (Internet Archive copy of August 2, 2025))

• An electric vehicle with a Disabled Veteran plate pays an additional $100 surcharge on the registration.

  “For any electric vehicle that would like a Disabled Veteran license plate on their vehicle there will be an additional $100 surcharge to the registration.” (Secretary of State, Disabled Veteran license plates (Internet Archive copy of August 2, 2025))

• A veteran who receives 10 percent or more service-connected compensation, or a total disability pension, gets a fishing and hunting license free of charge. IDVA issues the Disability Affidavit that the veteran presents.

  “In gratitude for their service, veterans who receive 10% or greater service-connected compensation or total disability pension are provided a fishing and hunting license free of charge.” (IDVA, Fishing and Hunting Permits)

• The veteran presents a DD214 and a Disability Affidavit that IDVA issues.

  “Veterans are required to present a DD214 and a Disability Affidavit, and both can be obtained through IDVA.” (IDVA, Fishing and Hunting Permits)

• IDVA’s guide says the veteran obtains the license from IDVA with disability documentation no more than one year old.

  “The veteran may obtain this license from the IDVA by providing disability documentation that is no more than one year old.” (IDVA benefits guide, Fishing and Hunting Licenses)

• IDVA says the licenses are not required for these disabled veterans regardless of state of residency, so a nonresident veteran with the affidavit is covered too.

  “The purchase of fishing and hunting licenses are not required for disabled veterans, regardless of state of residency, who are receiving 10% or greater service-connected compensation, or total disability pension benefits.” (IDVA, Fishing and Hunting Permits)

• Illinois resident disabled veterans and former prisoners of war camp free of charge, and pay no admission fees, in parks under IDNR. Documentation is required, and the application goes through an IDVA Veteran Service Office.

  “This benefit provides for the exemption of camping and admission fees for certain disabled persons and former prisoners of war who are Illinois residents and wish to camp in parks under the control of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.” (IDVA, Fishing and Hunting Permits (Camping & Admission Fees))

• Illinois gives veterans points added to their scores on State exams, not a flat hiring rule.

  “The preference granted under this Section shall be in the form of points, or the equivalent, added to the applicable scores of the persons if they otherwise qualify and are entitled to be considered for appointment.” (20 ILCS 415/8b.7(b) (Internet Archive copy))

• A veteran gets 10 points with VA proof of a service-connected disability (or from an allied country) or a Purple Heart.

  “A veteran is qualified for a preference of 10 points if the veteran currently holds proof of a service connected disability from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or an allied country or if the veteran is a recipient of the Purple Heart.” (20 ILCS 415/8b.7(c) (Internet Archive copy))

• A veteran who served in a time of hostilities with a foreign country gets 5 points if the veteran served at least 6 months, served for the duration of hostilities, was discharged on the basis of hardship, or was released from active duty for a service-connected disability under honorable conditions.

  “A veteran who has served during a time of hostilities with a foreign country is qualified for a preference of 5 points if the veteran served under one or more of the following conditions” (20 ILCS 415/8b.7(d) (Internet Archive copy))

• A person not eligible for the 10- or 5-point preference gets 3 points with qualifying service: at least 6 months with an honorable discharge, a hardship discharge, release for a service-connected disability, or at least 4 years in the Illinois National Guard or a reserve component.

  “A person not eligible for a preference under subsection (c) or (d) is qualified for a preference of 3 points if the person has served in the armed forces of the United States, the Illinois National Guard, or any reserve component of the armed forces of the United States if the person” (20 ILCS 415/8b.7(e) (Internet Archive copy))

• A surviving unremarried spouse of a veteran who died of a service-connected cause, or the spouse of a veteran whose service-connected disability prevents civil service employment, gets the veteran’s preference. CMS verifies status with a certified copy of the DD214, NGB-22 or other evidence of an honorable discharge.

  “A surviving unremarried spouse of a veteran who suffered a service connected death or the spouse of a veteran who suffered a service connected disability that prevents the veteran from qualifying for civil service employment shall be entitled to the same preference to which the veteran would have been entitled under this Section.” (20 ILCS 415/8b.7(h) and (k) (Internet Archive copy))

• As of October 30, 2026, the IDVA bonus page links to the War Bonus Application and shows no deadline.

  “To apply for any of the following bonuses, follow the below link.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Bonus Application & Armed Forces Certificate))

• Global War on Terrorism: a one-time $100 bonus for a veteran who served on or after September 11, 2001 and lived in Illinois for 12 months before entering service.

  “A one time $100 bonus is payable to veterans who serve on or after September 11, 2001 and were residents of Illinois for 12 months immediately prior to entering service.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Global War on Terrorism))

• The same bonus also requires at least 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive days of foreign or sea service and one of the listed medals.

  “The claimant must also have served at least 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive days of foreign or sea service and be in receipt of one of the following medals” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Global War on Terrorism))

• The medals are the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal and Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

  “Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal Global War on Terrorism Service Medal Iraq Campaign Medal Afghanistan Campaign Medal” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Global War on Terrorism))

• Persian Gulf: a one-time $100 bonus for service between August 2, 1990 and November 30, 1995, with the Southwest Asia Service Medal, an honorable discharge and 12 months of Illinois residence before entering service.

  “A one time $100 bonus is payable to veterans who serve between August 2, 1990 - November 30, 1995, were residents of Illinois for 12 months immediately prior to entering service, received the Southwest Asia Service Medal, and received an Honorable Discharge.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Persian Gulf))

• Vietnam: a one-time $100 bonus for service January 1, 1961 to March 28, 1973, or the Frequent Wind evacuation on April 29 and 30, 1975, with the Vietnam Service Medal or the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for Vietnam and an honorable discharge.

  “A one time $100 bonus is payable to claimants who were residents of Illinois for 12 months immediately prior to entering service, received the Vietnam Service Medal or Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for Vietnam, and received an Honorable Discharge for service during one of the following periods” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Vietnam))

• Korea: a one-time $100 bonus for service in Korea between June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1953, with the Korean Service Medal and an honorable discharge.

  “A one time $100 bonus is payable to Veterans who serve in Korea between June 27, 1950 - July 27, 1953, were residents of Illinois for 12 months immediately prior to entering service, received the Korean Service Medal, and received an Honorable Discharge.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Korea))

• World War II: $10 a month for domestic service and $15 a month for foreign service for a veteran who was an Illinois resident on entering service, served at least 60 days on active duty between September 16, 1940 and September 3, 1945, and received an honorable discharge.

  “A one time bonus calculated at $10 per month for domestic service and $15 per month for foreign service is payable to a veteran who was a resident of Illinois at time of entering service, served at least 60 days on active duty between September 16, 1940 and September 3, 1945, and received an honorable discharge.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (World War II))

• Prisoner of war compensation: $50 for each month or portion of a month held captive in Southeast Asia, for a person on active duty or a U.S. Government employee from January 1, 1961 who was an Illinois resident 12 months before entry.

  “Persons on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States or employed by the United States Government on, or after, January 1, 1961, who were residents of Illinois 12 months prior to entry, and who were taken and held prisoner by hostile forces in Southeast Asia, are entitled to a one time payment of $50 for each month or portion thereof while being held captive.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (POW Compensation))

• IDVA runs five veterans’ homes for veterans: Anna, Chicago, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy. Admission rules and charges are not stated here.

  “Illinois veterans and eligible spouses seeking skilled and domiciliary care are offered five unique veterans' homes located across Illinois: Anna, Chicago, LaSalle, Manteno, and Quincy.” (IDVA, Veterans’ Homes)

• Only the Anna and Quincy Homes offer care to qualifying spouses, so a spouse cannot assume a place at the other three.

  “The Anna and Quincy Homes offer care to qualifying spouses.” (IDVA, Veterans’ Homes)

• Domiciliary living with minimal support is offered in Anna and Quincy, and 24/7 skilled nursing in all five homes. IDVA calls the care affordable but its page states no price.

  “The Veterans' Homes of Illinois offer affordable long-term care to aged and disabled veterans as well as their eligible spouses in five across the state - Anna, Chicago, LaSalle, Manteno, and Quincy.” (IDVA, Veterans’ Homes)

• When the federal government has furnished a headstone or marker, IDVA pays up to $125 for setting it.

  “When the federal government has furnished a headstone or marker, the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs pays up to $125.00 for the setting of such marker.” (IDVA, Survivor & Burial (Headstone or Grave Marker Reimbursement))

• The county Veterans Assistance Commission provides burial for an honorably discharged indigent veteran, or the veteran’s parents, spouse or surviving spouse, or minor children, who lack the means to pay the funeral expenses.

  “The county Veterans Assistance Commission shall provide burial for any honorably discharged indigent veteran, or their mothers, fathers, spouse or surviving spouse, or minor children who are without sufficient means to defray the funeral expenses.” (IDVA, Survivor & Burial (Indigent Veterans))

• Survivors of a Vietnam veteran can receive $1,000 if the VA classified the veteran’s death as service-connected due to exposure to herbicide commonly referred to as Agent Orange. IDVA’s guide words it as conditions presumptive to exposure from herbicides.

  “Survivors are entitled to a benefit of $1,000, if the veteran's death was classified as service-connected by the US Department of Veterans Affairs, due to exposure to herbicide commonly referred to as Agent Orange.” (IDVA, War Participation Bonus (Vietnam survivors benefit))

• The Global War on Terrorism survivors payment is $3,000, for survivors of military personnel killed in action by terrorist acts or hostile activities in periods recognized as wartime by a U.S. campaign or service medal.

  “A $3000 compensation benefit is payable to survivors of military personnel killed in action by terrorist acts or hostile activities during the performance of military service in periods recognized as wartime by a United States campaign or service medals.” (IDVA, Survivor & Burial (Global War on Terrorism Survivors Compensation))

• P.A. 104-0067 (Senate Bill 32), took effect January 1, 2026, and makes a household with one or more veterans or armed forces members categorically eligible for SNAP at or below 200 percent of the poverty guidelines. It is subject to federal approval if required, and also to federal funding, and the Illinois Department of Human Services is not obliged to pay SNAP benefits from State funds.

  “Provides that subject to federal approval if required, a household that includes one or more veterans or members of the armed forces shall be considered categorically eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits if the gross income of such a household is at or below 200% of the nonfarm income poverty guidelines.” (IDVA, Recent Legislation (SB 32, 305 ILCS 5/12-4.13a))

• P.A. 104-0136 (Senate Bill 2175), took effect January 1, 2026, and lets a State employee who is a veteran take 4 days per year for VA-authorized medical care at any health care provider or facility for examination or treatment of a military service-connected condition.

  “Provides that an employee who is also a veteran shall be permitted 4 days per year to receive medical care authorized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, at any type of health care provider or health care facility (rather than permitted 4 days per year to visit a veterans hospital or clinic), for examination or treatment (rather than for examination) of a military service-connected condition (rather than service-connected disability).” (IDVA, Recent Legislation (SB 2175, 20 ILCS 415/8b.20))

• Whether Illinois taxes VA disability compensation. Publication 120 and the other pages cited here do not address it, so this page makes no statement.
• The statute behind the free hunting and fishing license and the camping exemption. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources pages and the Illinois statutes are not cited here; the IDVA pages are the only source, and IDVA’s page says the Hunting and Trapping Digest was updated for SB 153.
• The Illinois Veterans’ Grant statute and the 95 Ill. Admin. Code 116 rules behind P.A. 104-0238; the 105 ILCS 5/30-14.2 copy above was captured on October 6, 2025, before that law’s January 1, 2026 effective date.
• The World War II bonus survivors’ amount. IDVA’s bonus page says $1,000 and IDVA’s 2025 guide says $900; this page states neither.
• The Secretary of State’s second-set registration fee, which the August 2, 2025 capture gives as a 2025 figure, and whether the 10 percent walking disability test still applies.
• Veterans’ home admission rules and charges, the statute text of the returning veterans’ homestead exemption (35 ILCS 200/15-167; the Department of Revenue page is the source here), state park discounts beyond camping, and county or city programs.
• Any 2026 ballot measure about veterans: none appears in the sources cited here; check the Illinois State Board of Elections.

Federal VA compensation is separate. For monthly VA pay by rating see the VA disability pay chart 2026.

• Illinois disabled veteran property tax exemption – calculator and steps for the homestead exemption
• Disabled veteran property tax exemption by state – all 50 states compared
• States that tax military retirement – every state’s rule for retired pay
• VA disability pay chart 2026 – federal monthly VA compensation by rating
• VA benefits by disability rating – what each rating unlocks

• Texas veteran benefits – Hazlewood tuition, plates, hunting and state parks
• Florida veteran benefits – property tax exemption, plates, licenses and state parks
• California veteran benefits – property tax exemptions, College Fee Waiver and CalVet
• Virginia veteran benefits – property tax exemption, military pay subtraction and tuition waiver
• North Carolina veteran benefits – property tax exclusion, retired pay deduction and scholarships for children
• Arizona veteran benefits – property tax, vehicle fee waiver, licenses and spouse tuition
• Ohio veteran benefits – homestead exemption, scholarships for children, plates and licenses