State / Territory Benefits - Idaho
Summary: Idaho offers special benefits for its military service members and Veterans including Compensation for State Active Duty, Idaho National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program, State Park Passes, Vehicle License Plates, as well as Hunting and Fishing License privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
State Tax Advantage: When stationed outside the State of Idaho, active duty military are exempt from Idaho state income tax. The full-time duty must be continuous and uninterrupted for 120 consecutive days or more.
Retired Military Pay: Retirement benefits paid by the United States to a retired member of the U.S. Military or the un-remarried widow of such member if the recipient is age 65 or older, or disabled and age 62 or older are deductible. The amount deducted must be reduced by retirement benefits paid under the Federal Social Security Act or the Tier 1 Federal Railroad Retirement Act. The maximum amounts that may be deducted for 2009 are: MARRIED FILING JOINTLY: Age 65 or older or age 62 or older and disabled is $41,814. SINGLE: Age 65 or older or age 62 or older and disabled is $27,876. The amount of deduction varies from year to year.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Military Spouses Residency Relief Act: The earned income of qualifying spouses of Idaho Service members is no longer subject to Idaho income tax due to the federal Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (SR 475, HR 1182) passed in November of 2009.
- You are married to a Service member who is serving in Idaho and has registered in the military with another state as a home of record; and
- You have located to Idaho with the Service member and you have the same domicile (permanent residence) as the Service member's home of record.
For specific tax information that applies to military Service members and their Families, click here
State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP): Pays $125.00 per semester to full-time students. Part-time students can receive 25% - 75% of this amount depending on number of credit hours. STAP is available through the graduate level.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Provide resident student status to Veterans (and in some circumstances their dependents) who move to Idaho for the purpose of establishing domicile within Idaho.
Provides a scholarship for dependents of Idaho's members of the military service who are disabled (totally and permanently from any employment) as a result of injuries incurred while engaged in the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Provides in-state tuition to non-resident members of the Idaho National Guard to attend universities and colleges at resident's rates.
Operation Education Scholarship Program: The Operation Education Scholarship Program is designed to financially assist severely injured U.S. military personnel and/or their spouses with continuing education. The program will provide needed resources and support to empower returning Veterans and/or their spouses to pursue a degree program at the University of Idaho.
Academic Support: The program offers tutoring and provides adaptive equipment such as computer hardware and voice recognition software, as well as note takers and learning specialists to provide assistance in the classroom. Additionally, the program offers assistance through mentoring, internships and job placement services.
Financial Support: Operation provides scholarship assistance for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.
Additional Support: Operation Education can assist you with on-campus housing and transportation, medical assistance, child care, and personal and family counseling services.
Eligibility: Individuals may apply for the Operation Education scholarship at any time - however, it is recommended that for attendance during the Fall semester, applications should be in by March 1 and for Spring semester, applications should be in by October 1. Applications received after these dates may be considered contingent upon available funds.
Veterans Preference Points: Idaho Law provides Veterans preference points for individuals who have been in active service, other than active duty for training, of the United States as defined by Idaho Code, Title 65, Chapter 5, Section 502(6), & U.S.C Section 2108. Veterans preference points are also provided for individuals who have served on active duty in the armed services, have been discharged honorably, & who have a present service connected disability of 10% or more, or are a Purple Heart recipient. Veterans preference points are added to the final passing score & may improve a Veterans position on a list of qualified candidates. The preference points added are used only for initial appointment & not for promotions, transfers, or reassignments. Veterans preference requires public employers to provide additional consideration for eligible Veterans, but it does not guarantee the Veteran a job.
Eligibility: To be eligible for Veterans preference points you must have been discharged under honorable conditions. Veterans preference points are available on the initial hire only.
Preference Points
5 Points
- Preference eligible Veterans discharged under honorable conditions, or the widow or widower of a preference eligible Veteran, as long as she or he remains unmarried, are eligible for five (5) preference points.
- Disabled Veterans are defined as any individual who has served on active duty in the armed services at any time, who has been discharged under honorable conditions, & who has a present service connected disability of 10% or more or are Purple Heart recipients. They are eligible for 10 points that will be added to the earned rating & shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran or Purple Heart recipient honorably discharged may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried. Spouses of disabled Veterans may claim preference if the Veteran is unable to qualify for any public employment because of a service-connected disability.
- 10 points with offer of interview: Disabled Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who served on active duty in the armed forces at any time & who have a service connected disability of 30% or more shall be offered an interview if they are one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried -- however they will not be guaranteed an interview if he or she is one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants.
Professional License: All persons holding occupational or professional licenses issued by the State of Idaho and who are serving in the armed forces of the United States, shall be exempt from the payment of any professional or occupational license or renewal fee required by any law of this state for the period during which such persons shall be engaged in the military services of the United States. And during such period of military service, or service in the auxiliary branches thereof, or servitude and for six (6) months following the discharge from such military service or auxiliary service or servitude in the present war, such license shall remain in good standing without the necessity of renewal and during said period the same shall not be cancelled, suspended or revoked.
Eligibility: Soldiers in possession of an occupational or professional license issued by the State of Idaho on active duty and the six months following discharge.
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 120 hours of paid military leave per year.
Eligibility: State employee on orders for Annual Drill.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Medical Benefits: Medical benefits equivalent to State Employees.
Eligibility: Injury/Illness occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Workers Compensation: Workers Compensation equivalent to State employees.
Eligibility: Injury occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Application
National Guard Plate: Plate features "National Guard". There is no fee for this plate
Eligibility: Active member in good standing with the Idaho Army National Guard or the Idaho Air National Guard. Requires Commanding Officer certification.
Army Reserve Plate: Plate features the word "Reservist". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter
Eligibility: Proof of active membership required.
Army Veteran Plate: Veteran plate features the word "Veteran". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter. Additional $25.00 to personalize plate.
Eligibility: Proof of being a current or former member of the United States Armed Forces must be furnished to the department before special Veterans plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Army Veteran Afghanistan/Iraq Plate: Veteran plate features "Afghanistan/Iraq". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this customized plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter.
Eligibility: Proof of military service is required. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Army Veteran Korea Plate: Veteran plate features "Korea Veteran". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this customized plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter.
Eligibility: Proof of military service is required. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
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Army Veteran Persian Gulf Plate: Veteran plate features "Persian Gulf Veteran". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this customized plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter.
Eligibility: Proof of military service is required. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Army Veteran Vietnam Plate: Veteran plate features "Vietnam Veteran". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this customized plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter.
Eligibility: Proof of military service is required. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Army Veteran World War II Plate: Veteran plate features "World War II Veteran". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this customized plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter.
Eligibility: Proof of military service is required. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Disabled Veteran must be veterans with a 100% service connected permanent disability. There is no fee for this plate. Limited to one set.
Eligibility: Call the Veterans Administration Regional Office (VARO) in Boise, Idaho at (800) 827-1000 to find out if you meet eligibility requirements and to request a Disabled Veteran Plate Eligibility Letter.
Purple Heart Recipient: No additional fees will be charged for this plate.
Eligibility: Proof of receipt of the Purple Heart must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a Copy of DD-214 or equivalent required
Congressional Medal of Honor: No fees will be charged for this plate.
Eligibility: Congressional Medal of Honor license plates are available to applicants who furnish proof of entitlement by certification from the United States Veterans Administration attesting to their status as a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient
Pearl Harbor Survivor: No additional fees will be charged for this plate.
Eligibility: Requires certification of being on duty in the US Armed Forces on 12-7-41, stationed at Pearl Harbor, the Island of Oahu, or offshore at a distance not exceeding three (3) miles. Include a copy of orders, a copy of Pearl Harbor Survivors Association membership card, or equivalent documentation.
Former Prisoner of War Korea: No additional fees will be charged for this plate.
Eligibility: Proof must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of DD-214 or equivalent required
Former Prisoner of War Persian Gulf: No additional fees will be charged for this plate. Eligibility: Proof must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of DD-214 or equivalent required.
Former Prisoner of War USS Pueblo: No additional fees will be charged for this plate. Eligibility: Proof must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of DD-214 or equivalent required.
Former Prisoner of War Vietnam: No additional fees will be charged for this plate.
Eligibility: Proof must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of DD-214 or equivalent required.
Former Prisoner of War World War II: No additional fees will be charged for this plate. Eligibility: Proof must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of DD-214 or equivalent required.
Military Veteran Motorcycle: Only Veteran plates and Veteran Motorcycle plates may be personalized. An extra initial fee of $25.00 and an extra annual fee of $15.00 will be charged. The text must have at least one alpha character and no punctuation marks. Leave a blank square where you want a space.
Eligibility: Proof of being a current or former member of the United States Armed Forces must be furnished to the department before special Veterans plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Gold Star: The Gold Star plate is available for spouses, parents and other immediate Family members of military members killed by hostile actions during active military service in a period of war recognized by the U.S. Congress. Surviving spouses and parents of deceased service members will not pay fees for gold star plates. A portion of the fees paid by other qualifying relatives will be used to defray the costs of administering the issuance of the plates at ITD and IDVS. Any remaining fees will be used to provide support programs for Veterans.
Eligibility: Proof of entitlement must be furnished to the department before plates will be issued. This proof can be provided by a copy of DD214 or equivalent documentation, or a letter from the United States Veterans Administration attesting to the Veteran's status.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Disabled Veteran receives hunting and fishing license for an annual $5.00 fee. The license allows the disabled Veteran to hunt small game and fish with trout validation within the limits of the current proclamations. The DAV license, also allows the disabled Veteran to purchase reduced fee Disabled American Veteran tags for deer $10.75, elk $16.50, bear $6.75, or turkey $10.75.
Eligibility: Idaho resident Veterans who are 40% disabled as a result of having served in the United States Armed Forces.
Disabled Veteran Program (Parks Pass): The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) offers Idaho service connected disabled Veterans free camping and day-use access within Idaho's State Parks. The program entitles eligible Idaho Veterans to free Idaho State Park day-use access and one free campsite per overnight stay.
Eligibility: Idaho residents with service connected disabilities, rated at 100% permanent and total, with written proof from the Idaho Department of Veterans Affairs. Idaho Veterans who have been issued a "Disabled Veteran" license plate from the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) are also eligible for the discount and may use their license plate as proof of eligibility.
Financial Assistance: Provides up to a $1,000 grant, in cases of extreme emergency, to wartime Veterans in need of assistance. Must have entered the military from Idaho, or lived within the state for at least 5 years. The event or emergency must have occurred within 90 days of the request.
Office of Veterans Advocacy: A full-service state agency that assists Veterans, their Family members and survivors. The department is an advocate for Veterans and their Families, and aggressively pursues all federal and state benefits and entitlements on their behalf. The department's Veterans Service Offices and the statewide referral service are staffed with qualified benefits specialists to assist Veterans and Family members in accessing benefits to which they may be entitled.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents.
State Veterans Homes: Monthly cost for care is based on income and assets. Nursing care admission requirements include a statement from a licensed physician stating that the Veteran needs 24-hour skilled nursing care Monthly cost for care in the domiciliary/residential units is based on income and assets. Three state Veteran homes exist within Idaho: 1) Pocatello Veterans Home is a 66 skilled-nursing-care beds which includes domiciliary, residential and nursing care; 2) Boise Veterans Home has a unit that provides specialized care for residents who have Alzheimer's disease or other forms dementia and/or require secure care for their protection. A professional, dedicated staff administers these levels of care by providing medical, dietary, social, rehabilitative and religious services; 3) Lewiston Veterans Home offers domiciliary, residential and nursing care.
Eligibility: Applicants may be peacetime or wartime Veterans, with wartime Veterans retaining priority admission status. Applicants must have been discharged under honorable conditions and be a bona fide resident of the state of Idaho. In addition, applicants must be unemployable as a result of age, illness, or disability. Effective July 1, 2000, applicants must apply for and become eligible for Medicaid benefits or must pay the established maximum monthly nursing care charge.
Veteran Burial Benefits: The State of Idaho currently has one State Veterans Cemetery, which is located at 10100 Horseshoe Bend Road, Boise Idaho. Interment fees for eligible Veterans are paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Associated funeral expenses and preparation are not included and are incurred by the Veteran's Family or estate. Veterans and Families are able to choose, a columbarium niche, cremation inurnment that includes an inscribed, granite niche cover; an in-ground, garden niche, cremation inurnment that includes a flush-to-the-ground inscribed, granite marker; a scattering garden, set in a natural draw of the Boise foothills, that includes a location for an inscribed marker in memory of the deceased; a full casket, in-ground interment that includes an inscribed, upright granite marker. Military Funeral Honors are coordinated by the Cemetery. Honors include the playing of Taps, folding of the flag and its presentation to the next-of-kin. An Honor Guard detail of at least two members of the Armed Services is provided for the interment service of the eligible Veteran.
Eligibility: Eligibility for interment in the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery mirrors National Veterans Cemetery eligibility requirements. There is no requirement to be a resident of the state of Idaho.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Operation Education Scholarship Program: The Operation Education Scholarship Program is designed to financially assist severely injured U.S. military personnel and/or their spouses with continuing education. The program will provide needed resources and support to empower returning Veterans and/or their spouses to pursue a degree program at the University of Idaho.
Academic Support: The program offers tutoring and provides adaptive equipment such as computer hardware and voice recognition software, as well as note takers and learning specialists to provide assistance in the classroom. Additionally, the program offers assistance through mentoring, internships and job placement services.
Financial Support: Operation provides scholarship assistance for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.
Additional Support: Operation Education can assist you with on-campus housing and transportation, medical assistance, child care, and personal and family counseling services.
Eligibility: Individuals may apply for the Operation Education scholarship at any time - however, it is recommended that for attendance during the Fall semester, applications should be in by March 1 and for Spring semester, applications should be in by October 1. Applications received after these dates may be considered contingent upon available funds.
Veterans Preference Points: Idaho Law provides Veterans preference points for individuals who have been in active service, other than active duty for training, of the United States as defined by Idaho Code, Title 65, Chapter 5, Section 502(6), & U.S.C Section 2108. Veterans preference points are also provided for individuals who have served on active duty in the armed services, have been discharged honorably, & who have a present service connected disability of 10% or more, or are a Purple Heart recipient. Veterans preference points are added to the final passing score & may improve a Veterans position on a list of qualified candidates. The preference points added are used only for initial appointment & not for promotions, transfers, or reassignments. Veterans preference requires public employers to provide additional consideration for eligible Veterans, but it does not guarantee the Veteran a job.
Eligibility: To be eligible for Veterans preference points you must have been discharged under honorable conditions. Veterans preference points are available on the initial hire only.
Preference Points
5 Points
- Preference eligible Veterans discharged under honorable conditions, or the widow or widower of a preference eligible Veteran, as long as she or he remains unmarried, are eligible for five (5) preference points.
10 points
- Disabled Veterans are defined as any individual who has served on active duty in the armed services at any time, who has been discharged under honorable conditions, & who has a present service connected disability of 10% or more or are Purple Heart recipients. They are eligible for 10 points that will be added to the earned rating & shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran or Purple Heart recipient honorably discharged may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried. Spouses of disabled Veterans may claim preference if the Veteran is unable to qualify for any public employment because of a service-connected disability.
- 10 points with offer of interview: Disabled Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who served on active duty in the armed forces at any time & who have a service connected disability of 30% or more shall be offered an interview if they are one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried -- however they will not be guaranteed an interview if he or she is one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants.
Workers Compensation: Workers Compensation equivalent to State employees.
Eligibility: Injury occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Application
Disabled Veteran must be veterans with a 100% service connected permanent disability. There is no fee for this plate. Limited to one set.
Eligibility: Call the Veterans Administration Regional Office (VARO) in Boise, Idaho at (800) 827-1000 to find out if you meet eligibility requirements and to request a Disabled Veteran Plate Eligibility Letter.
Purple Heart Recipient: No additional fees will be charged for this plate.
Eligibility: Proof of receipt of the Purple Heart must be furnished to the department before special plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a Copy of DD-214 or equivalent required
Military Veteran Motorcycle: Only Veteran plates and Veteran Motorcycle plates may be personalized. An extra initial fee of $25.00 and an extra annual fee of $15.00 will be charged. The text must have at least one alpha character and no punctuation marks. Leave a blank square where you want a space.
Eligibility: Proof of being a current or former member of the United States Armed Forces must be furnished to the department before special Veterans plates will be issued. Acceptable proof will be a copy of form DD214 or an equivalent document or statement from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Disabled Veteran receives hunting and fishing license for an annual $5.00 fee. The license allows the disabled Veteran to hunt small game and fish with trout validation within the limits of the current proclamations. The DAV license, also allows the disabled Veteran to purchase reduced fee Disabled American Veteran tags for deer $10.75, elk $16.50, bear $6.75, or turkey $10.75.
Eligibility: Idaho resident Veterans who are 40% disabled as a result of having served in the United States Armed Forces.
Disabled Veteran Program (Parks Pass): The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) offers Idaho service connected disabled Veterans free camping and day-use access within Idaho's State Parks. The program entitles eligible Idaho Veterans to free Idaho State Park day-use access and one free campsite per overnight stay.
Eligibility: Idaho residents with service connected disabilities, rated at 100% permanent and total, with written proof from the Idaho Department of Veterans Affairs. Idaho Veterans who have been issued a "Disabled Veteran" license plate from the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) are also eligible for the discount and may use their license plate as proof of eligibility.
Financial Assistance: Provides up to a $1,000 grant, in cases of extreme emergency, to wartime Veterans in need of assistance. Must have entered the military from Idaho, or lived within the state for at least 5 years. The event or emergency must have occurred within 90 days of the request.
Office of Veterans Advocacy: A full-service state agency that assists Veterans, their Family members and survivors. The department is an advocate for Veterans and their Families, and aggressively pursues all federal and state benefits and entitlements on their behalf. The department's Veterans Service Offices and the statewide referral service are staffed with qualified benefits specialists to assist Veterans and Family members in accessing benefits to which they may be entitled.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents.
State Veterans Homes: Monthly cost for care is based on income and assets. Nursing care admission requirements include a statement from a licensed physician stating that the Veteran needs 24-hour skilled nursing care Monthly cost for care in the domiciliary/residential units is based on income and assets. Three state Veteran homes exist within Idaho: 1) Pocatello Veterans Home is a 66 skilled-nursing-care beds which includes domiciliary, residential and nursing care; 2) Boise Veterans Home has a unit that provides specialized care for residents who have Alzheimer's disease or other forms dementia and/or require secure care for their protection. A professional, dedicated staff administers these levels of care by providing medical, dietary, social, rehabilitative and religious services; 3) Lewiston Veterans Home offers domiciliary, residential and nursing care.
Eligibility: Applicants may be peacetime or wartime Veterans, with wartime Veterans retaining priority admission status. Applicants must have been discharged under honorable conditions and be a bona fide resident of the state of Idaho. In addition, applicants must be unemployable as a result of age, illness, or disability. Effective July 1, 2000, applicants must apply for and become eligible for Medicaid benefits or must pay the established maximum monthly nursing care charge.
Retired Military Pay: Retirement benefits paid by the United States to a retired member of the U.S. Military or the un-remarried widow of such member if the recipient is age 65 or older, or disabled and age 62 or older are deductible. The amount deducted must be reduced by retirement benefits paid under the Federal Social Security Act or the Tier 1 Federal Railroad Retirement Act. The maximum amounts that may be deducted for 2009 are: MARRIED FILING JOINTLY: Age 65 or older or age 62 or older and disabled is $41,814. SINGLE: Age 65 or older or age 62 or older and disabled is $27,876. The amount of deduction varies from year to year.
State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP): Pays $125.00 per semester to full-time students. Part-time students can receive 25% - 75% of this amount depending on number of credit hours. STAP is available through the graduate level.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Provide resident student status to Veterans (and in some circumstances their dependents) who move to Idaho for the purpose of establishing domicile within Idaho.
Provides a scholarship for dependents of Idaho's members of the military service who are disabled (totally and permanently from any employment) as a result of injuries incurred while engaged in the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Provides in-state tuition to non-resident members of the Idaho National Guard to attend universities and colleges at resident's rates.
Operation Education Scholarship Program: The Operation Education Scholarship Program is designed to financially assist severely injured U.S. military personnel and/or their spouses with continuing education. The program will provide needed resources and support to empower returning Veterans and/or their spouses to pursue a degree program at the University of Idaho.
Academic Support: The program offers tutoring and provides adaptive equipment such as computer hardware and voice recognition software, as well as note takers and learning specialists to provide assistance in the classroom. Additionally, the program offers assistance through mentoring, internships and job placement services.
Financial Support: Operation provides scholarship assistance for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.
Additional Support: Operation Education can assist you with on-campus housing and transportation, medical assistance, child care, and personal and family counseling services.
Eligibility: Individuals may apply for the Operation Education scholarship at any time - however, it is recommended that for Fall semester, applications should be in by March 1 and for Spring semester, applications should be in by October 1. Applications received after these dates may be considered contingent upon available funds.
Veterans Preference Points: Idaho Law provides Veterans preference points for individuals who have been in active service, other than active duty for training, of the United States as defined by Idaho Code, Title 65, Chapter 5, Section 502(6), & U.S.C Section 2108. Veterans preference points are also provided for individuals who have served on active duty in the armed services, have been discharged honorably, & who have a present service connected disability of 10% or more, or are a Purple Heart recipient. Veterans preference points are added to the final passing score & may improve a Veterans position on a list of qualified candidates. The preference points added are used only for initial appointment & not for promotions, transfers, or reassignments. Veterans preference requires public employers to provide additional consideration for eligible Veterans, but it does not guarantee the Veteran a job.
Eligibility: To be eligible for Veterans preference points you must have been discharged under honorable conditions. Veterans preference points are available on the initial hire only.
Preference Points
5 Points
- Preference eligible Veterans discharged under honorable conditions, or the widow or widower of a preference eligible Veteran, as long as she or he remains unmarried, are eligible for five (5) preference points.
10 points
- Disabled Veterans are defined as any individual who has served on active duty in the armed services at any time, who has been discharged under honorable conditions, & who has a present service connected disability of 10% or more or are Purple Heart recipients. They are eligible for 10 points that will be added to the earned rating & shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran or Purple Heart recipient honorably discharged may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried. Spouses of disabled Veterans may claim preference if the Veteran is unable to qualify for any public employment because of a service-connected disability.
- 10 points with offer of interview: Disabled Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who served on active duty in the armed forces at any time & who have a service connected disability of 30% or more shall be offered an interview if they are one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried -- however they will not be guaranteed an interview if he or she is one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants.
Gold Star: The Gold Star plate is available for spouses, parents and other immediate Family members of military members killed by hostile actions during active military service in a period of war recognized by the U.S. Congress. Surviving spouses and parents of deceased service members will not pay fees for gold star plates. A portion of the fees paid by other qualifying relatives will be used to defray the costs of administering the issuance of the plates at ITD and IDVS. Any remaining fees will be used to provide support programs for Veterans.
Eligibility: Proof of entitlement must be furnished to the department before plates will be issued. This proof can be provided by a copy of DD214 or equivalent documentation, or a letter from the United States Veterans Administration attesting to the Veteran's status.
Office of Veterans Advocacy: A full-service state agency that assists Veterans, their Family members and survivors. The department is an advocate for Veterans and their Families, and aggressively pursues all federal and state benefits and entitlements on their behalf. The department's Veterans Service Offices and the statewide referral service are staffed with qualified benefits specialists to assist Veterans and Family members in accessing benefits to which they may be entitled.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents.
Veteran Burial Benefits: The State of Idaho currently has one State Veterans Cemetery, which is located at 10100 Horseshoe Bend Road, Boise Idaho. Interment fees for eligible Veterans are paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Associated funeral expenses and preparation are not included and are incurred by the Veteran's Family or estate. Veterans and Families are able to choose, a columbarium niche, cremation inurnment that includes an inscribed, granite niche cover; an in-ground, garden niche, cremation inurnment that includes a flush-to-the-ground inscribed, granite marker; a scattering garden, set in a natural draw of the Boise foothills, that includes a location for an inscribed marker in memory of the deceased; a full casket, in-ground interment that includes an inscribed, upright granite marker. Military Funeral Honors are coordinated by the Cemetery. Honors include the playing of Taps, folding of the flag and its presentation to the next-of-kin. An Honor Guard detail of at least two members of the Armed Services is provided for the interment service of the eligible Veteran.
Eligibility: Eligibility for interment in the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery mirrors National Veterans Cemetery eligibility requirements. There is no requirement to be a resident of the state of Idaho.
Idaho National Guard Benefits:
State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP): Pays $125.00 per semester to full-time students. Part-time students can receive 25% - 75% of this amount depending on number of credit hours. STAP is available through the graduate level.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Provide resident student status to Veterans (and in some circumstances their dependents) who move to Idaho for the purpose of establishing domicile within Idaho.
Provides a scholarship for dependents of Idaho's members of the military service who are disabled (totally and permanently from any employment) as a result of injuries incurred while engaged in the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Provides in-state tuition to non-resident members of the Idaho National Guard to attend universities and colleges at resident's rates.
Veterans Preference Points: Idaho Law provides Veterans preference points for individuals who have been in active service, other than active duty for training, of the United States as defined by Idaho Code, Title 65, Chapter 5, Section 502(6), & U.S.C Section 2108. Veterans preference points are also provided for individuals who have served on active duty in the armed services, have been discharged honorably, & who have a present service connected disability of 10% or more, or are a Purple Heart recipient. Veterans preference points are added to the final passing score & may improve a Veterans position on a list of qualified candidates. The preference points added are used only for initial appointment & not for promotions, transfers, or reassignments. Veterans preference requires public employers to provide additional consideration for eligible Veterans, but it does not guarantee the Veteran a job.
Eligibility: To be eligible for Veterans preference points you must have been discharged under honorable conditions. Veterans preference points are available on the initial hire only.
Preference Points
5 Points
- Preference eligible Veterans discharged under honorable conditions, or the widow or widower of a preference eligible Veteran, as long as she or he remains unmarried, are eligible for five (5) preference points.
10 points
- Disabled Veterans are defined as any individual who has served on active duty in the armed services at any time, who has been discharged under honorable conditions, & who has a present service connected disability of 10% or more or are Purple Heart recipients. They are eligible for 10 points that will be added to the earned rating & shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran or Purple Heart recipient honorably discharged may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried. Spouses of disabled Veterans may claim preference if the Veteran is unable to qualify for any public employment because of a service-connected disability.
- 10 points with offer of interview: Disabled Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who served on active duty in the armed forces at any time & who have a service connected disability of 30% or more shall be offered an interview if they are one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried -- however they will not be guaranteed an interview if he or she is one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants.
Professional License: All persons holding occupational or professional licenses issued by the State of Idaho and who are serving in the armed forces of the United States, shall be exempt from the payment of any professional or occupational license or renewal fee required by any law of this state for the period during which such persons shall be engaged in the military services of the United States. And during such period of military service, or service in the auxiliary branches thereof, or servitude and for six (6) months following the discharge from such military service or auxiliary service or servitude in the present war, such license shall remain in good standing without the necessity of renewal and during said period the same shall not be cancelled, suspended or revoked.
Eligibility: Soldiers in possession of an occupational or professional license issued by the State of Idaho on active duty and the six months following discharge.
Military Spouses Residency Relief Act: The earned income of qualifying spouses of Idaho Service members is no longer subject to Idaho income tax due to the federal Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (SR 475, HR 1182) passed in November of 2009.
- You are married to a Service member who is serving in Idaho and has registered in the military with another state as a home of record; and
- You have located to Idaho with the Service member and you have the same domicile (permanent residence) as the Service member's home of record.
For specific tax information that applies to military Service members and their Families, click here
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 120 hours paid military leave per year.
Eligibility: State employee on orders for Annual Drill.
Medical Benefits: Medical benefits equivalent to State Employees.
Eligibility: Injury/Illness occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Workers Compensation: Workers Compensation equivalent to State employees.
Eligibility: Injury occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
National Guard Plate: Plate features "National Guard". There is no fee for this plate
Eligibility: Active member in good standing with the Idaho Army National Guard or the Idaho Air National Guard. Requires Commanding Officer certification.
Financial Assistance: Provides up to a $1,000 grant, in cases of extreme emergency, to wartime Veterans in need of assistance. Must have entered the military from Idaho, or lived within the state for at least 5 years. The event or emergency must have occurred within 90 days of the request.
Office of Veterans Advocacy: A full-service state agency that assists Veterans, their Family members and survivors. The department is an advocate for Veterans and their Families, and aggressively pursues all federal and state benefits and entitlements on their behalf. The department's Veterans Service Offices and the statewide referral service are staffed with qualified benefits specialists to assist Veterans and Family members in accessing benefits to which they may be entitled.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents.
Provide resident student status to Veterans (and in some circumstances their dependents) who move to Idaho for the purpose of establishing domicile within Idaho.
Provides a scholarship for dependents of Idaho's members of the military service who are disabled (totally and permanently from any employment) as a result of injuries incurred while engaged in the conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Provides in-state tuition to non-resident members of the Idaho National Guard to attend universities and colleges at resident's rates.
Veterans Preference Points: Idaho Law provides Veterans preference points for individuals who have been in active service, other than active duty for training, of the United States as defined by Idaho Code, Title 65, Chapter 5, Section 502(6), & U.S.C Section 2108. Veterans preference points are also provided for individuals who have served on active duty in the armed services, have been discharged honorably, & who have a present service connected disability of 10% or more, or are a Purple Heart recipient. Veterans preference points are added to the final passing score & may improve a Veterans position on a list of qualified candidates. The preference points added are used only for initial appointment & not for promotions, transfers, or reassignments. Veterans preference requires public employers to provide additional consideration for eligible Veterans, but it does not guarantee the Veteran a job.
Eligibility: To be eligible for Veterans preference points you must have been discharged under honorable conditions. Veterans preference points are available on the initial hire only.
Preference Points
5 Points
- Preference eligible Veterans discharged under honorable conditions, or the widow or widower of a preference eligible Veteran, as long as she or he remains unmarried, are eligible for five (5) preference points.
10 points
- Disabled Veterans are defined as any individual who has served on active duty in the armed services at any time, who has been discharged under honorable conditions, & who has a present service connected disability of 10% or more or are Purple Heart recipients. They are eligible for 10 points that will be added to the earned rating & shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran or Purple Heart recipient honorably discharged may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried. Spouses of disabled Veterans may claim preference if the Veteran is unable to qualify for any public employment because of a service-connected disability.
- 10 points with offer of interview: Disabled Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who served on active duty in the armed forces at any time & who have a service connected disability of 30% or more shall be offered an interview if they are one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants. Widows or widowers of any disabled Veteran may also claim the 10 points if he or she remains unmarried -- however they will not be guaranteed an interview if he or she is one (1) of the top ten (10) qualified applicants.
Professional License: All persons holding occupational or professional licenses issued by the State of Idaho and who are serving in the armed forces of the United States, shall be exempt from the payment of any professional or occupational license or renewal fee required by any law of this state for the period during which such persons shall be engaged in the military services of the United States. And during such period of military service, or service in the auxiliary branches thereof, or servitude and for six (6) months following the discharge from such military service or auxiliary service or servitude in the present war, such license shall remain in good standing without the necessity of renewal and during said period the same shall not be cancelled, suspended or revoked.
Eligibility: Soldiers in possession of an occupational or professional license issued by the State of Idaho on active duty and the six months following discharge.
Military Spouses Residency Relief Act: The earned income of qualifying spouses of Idaho Service members is no longer subject to Idaho income tax due to the federal Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (SR 475, HR 1182) passed in November of 2009.
- You are married to a Service member who is serving in Idaho and has registered in the military with another state as a home of record; and
- You have located to Idaho with the Service member and you have the same domicile (permanent residence) as the Service member's home of record.
For specific tax information that applies to military Service members and their Families, click here
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 120 hours paid military leave per year.
Eligibility: State employee on orders for Annual Drill.
Army Reserve Plate: Plate features the word "Reservist". In addition to vehicle registration fees, this plate will cost $25.00 for the first year with a $15.00 renewal fee each year thereafter
Eligibility: Proof of active membership required.
Financial Assistance: Provides up to a $1,000 grant, in cases of extreme emergency, to wartime Veterans in need of assistance. Must have entered the military from Idaho, or lived within the state for at least 5 years. The event or emergency must have occurred within 90 days of the request.
Office of Veterans Advocacy: A full-service state agency that assists Veterans, their Family members and survivors. The department is an advocate for Veterans and their Families, and aggressively pursues all federal and state benefits and entitlements on their behalf. The department's Veterans Service Offices and the statewide referral service are staffed with qualified benefits specialists to assist Veterans and Family members in accessing benefits to which they may be entitled.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents.
Military Installations and Veterans Affairs Facilities in Idaho
Active Duty:
Army
No active duty Army installations are located in Idaho.
Air Force
Mountain Home Air Force Base: http://www.mountainhome.af.mil/
Mountain Air Force Base provides military ID cards and DEERS Enrollment. Additionally, there is a Base Exchange, lodging, housing and a commissary and many other services.
National Guard:
Idaho National Guard Joint Headquarters: http://nationalguard.idaho.gov/index.aspx
Idaho Army National Guard: http://nationalguard.idaho.gov/index.aspx
Idaho Air National Guard: http://nationalguard.idaho.gov/index.aspx
United States Army Reserve (USAR):
Regional Readiness Command (RRC) Headquarters, 70th RRC: http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/army/70rsc.htm
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in Idaho:
VA Medical Center
Boise: Boise VA Medical Center, 500 Fort St, 208-422-1000
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Caldwell: Caldwell Clinic, 4521 Thomas Jefferson Dr, 208-454-4820
Coeur d'Alene: Coeur d'Alene CBOC, 2177 N Ironwood Center Dr, 208-665-1700 / 1704
Grangeville: Grangeville Idaho VA Outpatient Clinic, 711 West North St, 208-983-4671
Idaho Falls: Idaho Falls Outreach, Eagle Pines Plaza, 3544 East 17th St, Suite 104, 208-522-2922
Lewiston: Lewiston Idaho CBOC, 1630 23rd Ave, Suites 301 & 401, Bldg 2, 208-746-7784
Pocatello: Pocatello Outpatient Clinic, 444 Hospital Way Suite 801, 208-232-6214
Twin Falls: Twin Falls Outpatient Clinic, 260 2nd Ave East, 208-732-0959
Vet Centers
Boise: Boise Vet Center, 2424 Bank Dr, 208-342-3612 / 877-927-8387
Pocatello: Pocatello Vet Center, 1800 Garrett Way, 208-232-0316 / 877-927-8387
Resources
http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/idstat/Title49/T49CH4.htm
http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/idstat/TOC/IDStatutesTOC.htm
http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/about/offices/
http://www.idahoarmyguard.org/
http://www.goang.com/benefits/
http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?State=ID&dnum=ALL
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-alabama-iowa#IDAHO
http://tax.idaho.gov/i-1011.cfm
http://www.Veterans.idaho.gov/
Document Review Date: 4 October 2012