State / Territory Benefits - Illinois
State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Department of Vehicle Services
Health and Insurance Benefits
Parks & Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
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Wounded Warrior Benefits
Survivor Benefits
Army National Guard Benefits
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Summary: The State of Illinois offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including Property Tax Exemptions, exemptions for Specially Adapted Housing and Mobile Homes, State Employment Preferences and Assistance, Education and Tuition Assistance, Special Vehicle Tags, Veterans Homes, Burial Benefits as well as Hunting, Fishing Licenses and State Camping privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
State Tax Advantage: Military pay that is in the Adjusted Gross Income may be subtracted, including, 1) pay for duty in the armed forces, including basic training; 2) pay for duty as a cadet at a service academy or in ROTC; 3) pay for duty serving in the National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve forces (including a National Guard unit of another state). Pay that cannot be subtracted is as follows, 1) military income (such as combat pay) that was excluded from the AGI on Form IL-1040, Line 1; 2) pay received under the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI); 3) pay received from the military as a civilian; 4) payments made under the Ready Reserve Mobilization income Insurance program or pay for duty as a officer in the Public Health Service
Eligibility: Military personnel; must attach W-2
Retired Military Pay: Not taxed.
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: Not subject to federal or state taxes.
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.
Tax Exemption for Mobile Home: This exemption applies to the tax imposed by the Mobile Home Local Services Tax Act when that property is owned and used exclusively by a disabled Veteran, spouse or unmarried surviving spouse as a home.
Eligibility: The Veteran must have received authorization of the Specially Adapted Housing Grant by the USDVA, whether benefit was used or not. Applicant must be a permanent resident of the State of Illinois on January 1 of the tax year for which the exemption is being claimed. Disabled Veterans that now live in a mobile home and never received the Specially Adapted Housing Grant are not eligible. Please contact your local service office for more information.
Returning Veterans' Homestead Exemption (RVHE): The Returning Veterans' Homestead Exemption provides qualifying Veterans a $5,000 reduction to their home's equalized assessed value (EAV). A returning Veteran is eligible to receive the exemption the tax year and the following tax year the Veteran returns home from active duty. Qualifying Veterans who return from active duty in an armed conflict involving the U.S. armed forces can file an application upon their return home to receive this exemption. To apply for this exemption, please contact or visit your local County Assessor's Office.
Disabled Veterans' Homestead Exemption (DVHE): This exemption provides up to a $70,000 reduction in assessed value for certain types of housing owned and used by a disabled Veteran or his or her unmarried surviving spouse. The Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs determines the eligibility for this exemption, which must be reestablished annually. This exemption is also available on a mobile home owned used exclusively by a disabled Veteran or their spouse. For a single tax year, the property cannot receive this exemption and the Disabled Persons' Homestead Exemption or Disabled Veterans' Standard Homestead Exemption.
Disabled Veterans' Standard Homestead Exemption (DVSHE): The DVSHE provides a reduction in a property's EAV to a qualifying property owned by a Veteran with a service-connected disability certified by the U. S. Department of Veterans' Affairs. A $2,500 homestead exemption is available to a Veteran with a service-connected disability of at least 50% but less than 69% or a $5,000 homestead exemption is available to a Veteran with a service connected disability of at least 70%. A disabled Veteran must file an annual application by the county's due date to continue to receive this exemption. To apply for this exemption, please contact or visit your local County Assessor's Office. Effective 2011 tax year (property taxes paid 2012), a new provision takes effect under Public Act 96-1298 that allows a disabled Veteran to continue to receive the exemption if the Veteran becomes a resident of a facility licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act or a facility operated by the United States Dept. of Veterans' Affairs as long as the residence is occupied by the spouse or the residence is unoccupied but still owned by the Veteran.
Specially Adapted Housing Tax Exemption: This exemption is allowed on the assessed value of real property for which federal funds have been used for the purchase or construction of specially adapted housing for as long as the Veteran, or the spouse, or unmarried surviving spouse resides on the property. Assistance is provided for service-connected disabled Veterans for the purpose of acquiring or remodeling suitable dwelling units with special fixtures or moveable facilities made necessary by the Veteran's permanent and total service-connected disabilities. To apply for this exemption, please contact or visit your local Veteran Service Officer.
National Guard Grant Program: 100% college tuition at any Illinois state-supported school after one year in the IL NG. Applies to all ranks for either full-time or part-time undergraduate through Ph.D. level.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard member.
Educational Opportunities for Children (10-18 Yrs): Financial aid is provided annually to each child between the ages of 10 and 18 years of a Veteran who died or became totally disabled as a result of service in the Armed Forces during World War I, or II, the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts or beginning February 1, 1955, until such individuals are no longer eligible for induction under the Universal Military Training and Service Act. The financial aid applies to a state educational institution of elementary grade, high school or vocational training school.
MIA/POW Scholarship: Dependents of a Veteran who has been declared by the Department of Defense or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be a prisoner of war; missing-in-action; to have died as the result of a service-connected disability; or be permanently disabled from service-connected causes with 100% disability; and, who was an Illinois resident or was an Illinois resident within six months of entering service may be eligible for the scholarship. Eligible dependents are entitled to full payment of tuition and certain fees to any state supported Illinois institution of higher learning consisting of the equivalent of four (4) calendar years of full-time enrollment including summer terms (i.e., 120 points).
Veterans' Grant: The Illinois Veteran Grant (IVG) Program pays tuition and certain fees at all Illinois state-supported colleges, universities and community colleges for Illinois residents.
Eligibility: An individual must:
--be an honorably discharged Veteran
--reside in Illinois six months before entering the service
--have at least one full year of active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces which 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
--return to Illinois within six months of discharge from the service.
Applications and additional information are available from field offices of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs, college financial aid offices or the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, 1755 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, 60015, telephone 847/948-8550 or 800/899-ISAC, web site address: http://www.collegezone.com/.
Illinois National Guard Scholarship: Any enlisted person or Lieutenant or Captain with at least one (1) year service in the Illinois Army/Air National Guard may participate. Available for eight (8) semesters or twelve (12) quarters of full-time or part-time undergraduate study or graduate study at any Illinois state-controlled university or community college. Recipient is entitled to payment of tuition and certain fees. Applications and information on the scholarship may be obtained from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, 1755 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, Illinois, 60015, telephone 847/948-8550 or 800/899-ISAC, web site address: http://www.collegezone.com/ .
Children of Veterans Scholarship: Each county in the state shall be entitled, annually, to one honorary scholarship in the University of Illinois, for the benefit of children of Veterans of WWI, WWII, Korean and Vietnam Conflict and any time on or after August 2, 1990 and until those persons in service are no longer eligible for the Southwest Asia Service Medal. Preference is given to the children of deceased and disabled Veterans. Such children shall be entitled to receive, without charge for tuition, instruction in any or all departments of the University for a term of at least four (4) consecutive years. Details may be obtained from the University's Financial Aid Office.
Bright Start Fallen Heroes Scholarship:
Eligibility: The beneficiary must be a U.S. citizen under the age of 30 years old. Fallen Heroes home of record on file with the U.S. Department of Defense must be in Illinois. A photocopy of a birth certificate, adoption, certificate or marriage license (in case of a stepchild) must be provided.
Scholarship Terms:
•· The state will deposit $2500.00 in a Bright Start account for each child of a fallen Service member who serves in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom upon the request of a surviving Family member. All Illinois servicemen and women are eligible.
•· The money will be invested in an age-based portfolio, which adjusts automatically as the beneficiary ages. The closer the child is to college age, the more conservative the investments become.
•· Payments will be made by the Treasurer's office directly to an accredited college or university anywhere in the U.S. or selected institutions abroad.
•· The scholarship will be applied only to tuition, fees and room and board and must be spent before the child reaches 30 years old.
•· Individuals other than the State of Illinois can make tax-free contributions to the scholarship account but the State of Illinois retains control of account disbursements.
•· The scholarship can be used in conjunction with other federal benefits that children of fallen Service members are eligible to receive.
Illinois Troops to Teachers: Teaching in public schools is a profession highly compatible with the experience Veterans receive in the military. The Illinois Troops to Teachers Program can help eligible Veterans with at least 6 years of honorable service transition to K-12 public school teaching. The Illinois Troops to Teachers office, under the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs provides:
•· Educational and teaching career advisement
•· Information resources for earning an Illinois teacher's certification
•· Access to mentors, Illinois Veterans who have successfully transitioned
•· Preparation for and referral to employment as an Illinois public school teacher
With the required hours of past experience, Illinois Veterans can teach their technical skills in a vocational or career center. With a bachelor's degree, former Service members can qualify for referral to teach in an academic or subject matter area. Find out if you're eligible for financial assistance and download registration forms at www.ILTROOPS.org. Illinois' public school children need quality educators in the teacher force. Make a difference, be a teacher.
Contact Information 1-312-814-1831 / Toll Free: 1-866-372-3157
Jobs for Vets: The Department of Employment Security/Illinois Job Service provides a trained "Veterans Representative" to help you get the training and job you need. An electronic statewide job search information system is available at different locations throughout the State of Illinois. Contact your local Employment Security office for more information.
Employment Assistance for National Guard: State employees receive 15 days of military leave per year and 60 days of special training. Differential pay is no less than regular state pay differential for Basic Training. National Guard members are ensured employment protection while on Active Duty /ADSW & State Active Duty.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
State Approving Agency: Approves training for Veterans in the areas of higher education, apprenticeship training, vocational training, and on the job training.
Employment Preference: State Government/Employment Preference. Preference is given in Central Management Services entrance examinations to honorably discharged Veterans who served in times of hostilities and peacetime. Contact the Veterans Outreach Program for more information at (217) 524-1313 or (800) 643-8138.
Illinois Reemployment Rights: Illinois state law provides reemployment rights to Illinois National Guard personnel called to military duty. When performing federally mandated training or duty under titles 32 or 10 of the United States Code (monthly drills, annual training, or federal active duty), these rights are in addition to those provided by federal law. When performing State Active Duty, however, federal reemployment law does not apply and state reemployment rights law applies exclusively. If the military member meets the requirements of reemployment, he/she must be restored to the job previously held, or to a position of like seniority, status, and pay, with the same increases in status, seniority, and wages that were earned during his/her military service by employees in like positions who were on the job at the time of the military member's entry into military service. Requirements of reemployment are that he/she is still qualified to perform the duties of the position of the civilian employment, application for reemployment is made within 90 days after leaving military service, or within 1 year if hospitalized after discharge, and military service was satisfactorily completed or an honorable discharge was received.
Department of Vehicle Services:
The state of Illinois has a number of special vehicle license plates for its Service members and Veterans including: Armed Forces Reserves, Retired Armed Forces, Bronze Star, Congressional Medal of Honor, Disabled Veteran, Ex-Prisoner of War, Gold Star, Illinois National Guard, Korean War Veteran, Marine Corps, Pearl Harbor Survivor, POW/MIA Illinois Remembers, Purple Heart, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Universal Veteran, Vietnam Veteran, West Point Bicentennial, World War II Veteran, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Distinguished Service Cross, Iraq Campaign Medal, Korean Service, Universal Veteran, Universal Veteran Motorcycle, U.S. Army Veteran, Paratrooper, and Women Veterans.
Armed Forces Reserves: Any active ready reserve member, former member of the reserve or surviving spouse of a reservist of the United States Armed Forces may apply for as many sets of these plates as he or she has vehicles titled, registered or leased in his or her name. Fee applies and is subject to change.
Eligibility: Reservist must provide a legible copy of DD Form 2 (U.S. Uniformed Service Identification Card) showing current reserve status, or DD214 (discharge from military service) verifying reserve service record.
Retired Armed Forces: Any Illinois resident who is retired from any military branch in the United States may apply for Armed Forces Retired plates. Fee applies and is subject to change.
Eligibility: Retiree must provide a DD Form 2 or a Military ID showing retirement at the time of your request. Members of the reserves and guard who have not reached the age of 60 must submit a copy of their DD Form 2 and documentation showing transfer to retired status.
Disabled Veteran: Any U.S. Armed Forces Veteran who has a 100 percent military disability or is eligible to receive a grant from the U.S. government toward the purchase of a vehicle may obtain DV plates. No fees are required for the first set of plates. NOTE: Vehicles displaying DV plates may occupy areas specifically reserved for use by handicapped persons. Parking meter fees and time limitations are also waived, except at meters, signs or other markings with time limitations of 30 minutes or less.
Eligibility: The Veteran must provide a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs verifying that Veteran: --Is 100 percent military service disabled--Is eligible to receive a grant from the U.S. government toward the purchase of a vehicle--Has received a grant from the U.S. government toward the purchase of a vehicle.
Ex-Prisoner of War: Any U.S. citizen who is a present or former member of the U.S. Armed Forces or any of its Allies and who was a prisoner of war may apply for these plates. No fees are required for the first set of plates. The widowed spouse of a former member of the U.S. Armed Forces may apply for the plates, providing that the widowed spouse: (1) was married to the ex-prisoner of war at the time the ex-prisoner of war died, and (2) is single at the time of application. The ex-prisoner of war's name must appear as owner or co-owner on both the title and the registration application.
Eligibility: Applicant must provide a form from the federal government or a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs verifying the ex-prisoner of war status.
Illinois National Guard: Any active members, former members and surviving spouse of the Illinois National Guard may apply for these plates. Fee applies.
Eligibility: Applicant must provide a legible copy of a DD214 (discharge from military service) verifying service record or a DD Form 2 (U. S. Uniformed Service Identification Card) verifying National Guard status.
Pearl Harbor Survivor: Any Illinois resident, who served at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, as a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, or a surviving spouse, may apply.
Eligibility: Applicants must provide a Pearl Harbor Survivor affirmation stating the applicant was present on the island of Oahu or aboard ship within three miles of the island at the time of the attack.
The fees and eligibility may differ depending on the type of license plate. Please visit the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicle's website for a complete list of military license plates and updated fees.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Medical Benefits: State Active Duty receive medical, dental and hospital benefits for injury and disease incurred in line-of-duty.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Group Insurance: The Illinois National Guard offers $5,000 for $2.00/mo; $15,000 for $5.33/mo; $25,000 for $8.67/mo; $50,000 for $17.00/mo; Spouse Insurance is the same coverage. Dependent Insurance is $5,000 for $1.50/mo; $10,000 for $3.00/mo. All coverage is term up to age 70 and the premium will not go up with age. New enlistees will receive $5,000 free for the 1st year with application.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Workers Compensation: Available to National Guard members while on State Active Duty.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Injury/Death Benefits: $50,000 compensation paid to beneficiary of Guard members killed on State Active Duty.
Veterans Health Care Program: The Veterans Care Program provides comprehensive, affordable healthcare to Illinois' uninsured Veterans. The Veterans Care Program covers those Veterans who have the least access to reliable healthcare. These are the Veterans who cannot currently access Veterans Health Administration's benefits and who meet specific income requirements. Veterans Care offers an affordable option for eligible Illinois Veterans who are looking for comprehensive healthcare coverage. Covered services include hospital care, doctor services, prescription drugs, laboratory tests and X-rays, alcohol and substance abuse services, hospice care, mental health services, family planning, optometric care, podiatric care, and limited dental care. Participants in the Veterans Care Program will have to pay monthly premiums of $40 or $70 based on their income.
Eligibility: Veterans who have the least access to reliable healthcare. To be eligible, Veterans must meet all of the following requirements:
•o Ages of 19 through 64
•o Have had no health insurance for at least six months. However, you may still be eligible if your only insurance coverage in the last six months:
•§ Ended due to the loss of your employment or your spouse's employment
•§ Ended due to the loss of Family Care or other state medical assistance
•§ Ended due to the life-time benefit limit in your coverage
•§ Is through a spouse's plan that you are unable to access
•§ Is purchased through COBRA or is through post-active-duty TriCare coverage
•o Not eligible for VA healthcare
•o Not eligible for other state healthcare programs such as Family Care
•o Not been dishonorably discharged
•o Have served 180 consecutive days active duty after training
•o Veterans with incomes in the approved income range (varies by county and household size)
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Fishing and hunting licenses are not required for disabled Veterans who are Illinois residents and receiving 10% or greater service-connected compensation, or total disability pension benefits. To acquire a permit, contact your local Veterans Service office.
Military Fee Exemption: Effective April 1, 2012, the fees for fishing licenses, sportsmen's combination licenses, and hunting licenses for resident Veterans (after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President) at one-half the license fee for residents. In addition to the fee exemptions a person on active duty in the Armed Forces, who entered the service from Illinois and is an Illinois resident, may, while on ordinary or emergency leave, hunt without a license; however, a Federal Waterfowl Stamp and state Habitat Stamp are required. Military members are eligible for free sport fishing, hunting and camping for one license year for each year served and for one year for each portion of a year served.
Illinois GI Home Credit Program: The program basically allows Illinois Veterans and active duty personal who are first time home buyers to take advantage of a special federal income tax credit (you'll also hear it referred to as an MCC-mortgage credit certificate). This credit reduces the amount of federal income tax the borrower must pay, which in turn, frees up income to qualify for a mortgage. The credit can be used with any type of conventional mortgage loan, including FHA and VA loans. However, it cannot be used with IHDA's I-Loan or any other mortgage loan financed with tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds.
Eligibility: Must be an Illinois resident or active duty member. Veterans must be honorably discharged and qualify under the income limits depending location.
Consumer Installment Loan Act: A licensee may not garnish the wages or salaries of a borrower who is a member of the military nor is the spouse of a member of the military. In addition to any rights and obligations provided under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act, a licensee shall suspend and defer collection activity against a borrower who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, or to the spouse of a borrower who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, for the duration of the deployment. A licensee may not knowingly contact the military chain of command of a borrower who is a member of the military in an effort to collect on any loan. Licensees must honor the terms of any repayment plan that they have entered into with any borrower who is a member of the military, including a repayment agreement negotiated through military counselors or third-party credit counselors. A licensee may not use any military design or insignia on any advertising material or other material distributed to a member of the military or the spouse of a member of the military that suggests military approval or endorsement of any product of that license. For purposes of this Section, "member of the military" means a person serving in the armed forces of the United States, the Illinois National Guard, or any reserve component of the armed forces of the United States.
Eligibility: "Member of the military" includes those persons engaged in (i) active duty, (ii) training or education under the supervision of the United States preliminary to induction into military service, or (iii) a period of active duty with the State of Illinois under Title 10 or Title 32 of the United States Code pursuant to order of the President or the Governor of the State of Illinois."; and on page 1, line 5, after "2-5", by inserting "2-50"; and on page 6, immediately below line 4, by inserting the following: Practices concerning members of the military.
(a) A lender may not garnish the wages or salaries of a consumer who is a member of the military nor is the spouse of a member of the military.
(b) In addition to any rights and obligations provided under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act, a lender shall suspend and defer collection activity against a consumer who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, or to the spouse of a consumer who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, for the duration of the deployment.
(c) A lender may not knowingly contact the military chain of command of a consumer who is a member of the military in an effort to collect on a payday loan. (d) Lenders must honor the terms of any repayment plan that they have entered into with any consumer, including a repayment agreement negotiated through military counselors or third-party credit counselors. (e) A lender may not use any military design or insignia on any advertising material or other material distributed to a member of the military or the spouse of a member of the military that suggests military approval or endorsement of any product of that lender.
Free City Rail Transportation: Amends the Downstate Public Transportation Act, the Local Mass Transit District Act, the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act, and the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Provides that all fixed route transit services provided by a local mass transit district, the Chicago Transit Authority, the Suburban Bus Board, and the Commuter Rail Division must be provided free of charge to active duty military personnel, and actively drilling National Guard and Reserves who present a valid military identification card. Effective immediately.
Military Service Pass (MSP)(Chicago Transit Authority):
Who is eligible for the MSP?
a) Chicago area active duty military personnel and actively drilling members of the National Guard and Reserves who possess an Armed Forces ID card.
b) Chicago area disabled Veterans who have a qualifying service-connected disability and can provide proof that they are receiving:
--United States Department of Veterans' Affairs (USDVA) disability compensation of 10% or greater or, are receiving military disability; OR,
--retirement pay in lieu of USDVA compensation at a rate of 10% or greater.
What is required to confirm eligibility?
--For active duty military personnel, an Armed Forces ID card.
--For disabled Veterans, an official letter from the USDVA indicating eligibility for a qualifying service-connected disability payment as outlined above, along with a valid state ID card.
What if I am on active duty and in uniform?
You can ride for free and do not need to use your MSP. However, if you are on active duty but not in uniform, you must have an MSP in order to ride for free.
Specially Adapted Housing: Assistance is provided for service-connected disabled Veterans for the purpose of acquiring or remodeling suitable dwelling units with special fixtures or moveable facilities made necessary by the Veteran's permanent and total service-connected disabilities.
Eligibility: Veterans with permanent and total service-connected disabilities.
Camping & Admission Fees: 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. Documentation is required.
State Fair: Veterans and their Families are admitted to the fair grounds for free.
The Military Family Leave Act: Provides 15 to 30 days of unpaid leave time to spouses and parents of Soldiers called to more than 1 month of active duty.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Military Family Relief Fund: Status-based grant: flat rate of $500. Need-based grant: up to $2,000 (maximum) depending on family financial need. Casualty-based grant: $5,000, which is not retroactive, meaning injuries incurred on or after November 23, 2009, are eligible for consideration for the $5,000 Casualty-based grant. Single people are ineligible.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve deployed 60 consecutive days or more.
Korean, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, and Global War on Terrorism (OEF/OIF) Conflict Bonus: A $100 bonus is payable for service during one of the following periods:
•· Korea - June 27, 1950 - July 27, 1953
•· Vietnam - January 1, 1961 - March 28, 1973
•· Vietnam Frequent Wind - April 29, 30, 1975
•· Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990 - November 30, 1995.
•· Global War on Terrorism (OEF/OIF): on or after September 11, 2001
•·The claimant must also be in receipt of one of the following medals: Korean Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Vietnam Era or the Southwest Asia Service Medal or the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal or the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Eligibility: The claimant must also have been a resident of Illinois for 12 months immediately prior to entering service and have received an Honorable Discharge. (Individuals currently on active duty who served in the Persian Gulf may apply prior to discharge by also including the "Armed Forces Certificate".)
Veterans' Homes at Anna, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy: Quality nursing and health care services are provided for Illinois Veterans with military service of one (1) day or more during WW II, the Korean , Vietnam conflicts, or the Gulf War, or during any period of time now, or in the future, recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a period of war. The Veteran must have either been an Illinois resident upon entering the service, or have resided in the State of Illinois for one (1) year preceding application for admittance into a Veterans' Home. Peacetime Veterans with one (1) year of honorable military service may also be eligible for admission after the waiting list of eligible Veterans is exhausted. Spouses, or surviving spouses, may also qualify for admittance in cases where Veteran wait lists have been exhausted.
The Prince Home at Manteno: The Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Prince Home at Manteno is a residential program for homeless and disabled Veterans. Opened in 2007, the Prince Home at Manteno provides housing and supportive services for homeless Illinois Veterans, helping them cope with Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), substance abuse, and other challenges.
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: Not subject to federal or state taxes.
Tax Exemption for Mobile Home: This exemption applies to the tax imposed by the Mobile Home Local Services Tax Act when that property is owned and used exclusively by a disabled Veteran, spouse or unmarried surviving spouse as a home.
Eligibility: The Veteran must have received authorization of the Specially Adapted Housing Grant by the USDVA, whether benefit was used or not. Applicant must be a permanent resident of the State of Illinois on January 1 of the tax year for which the exemption is being claimed. Disabled Veterans that now live in a mobile home and never received the Specially Adapted Housing Grant are not eligible. Please contact your local service office for more information.
Disabled Veterans' Homestead Exemption (DVHE): This exemption provides up to a $70,000 reduction in assessed value for certain types of housing owned and used by a disabled Veteran or his or her unmarried surviving spouse. The Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs determines the eligibility for this exemption, which must be reestablished annually. This exemption is also available on a mobile home owned used exclusively by a disabled Veteran or their spouse. For a single tax year, the property cannot receive this exemption and the Disabled Persons' Homestead Exemption or Disabled Veterans' Standard Homestead Exemption.
Disabled Veterans' Standard Homestead Exemption (DVSHE): The DVSHE provides a reduction in a property's EAV to a qualifying property owned by a Veteran with a service-connected disability certified by the U. S. Department of Veterans' Affairs. A $2,500 homestead exemption is available to a Veteran with a service-connected disability of at least 50% but less than 69% or a $5,000 homestead exemption is available to a Veteran with a service connected disability of at least 70%. A disabled Veteran must file an annual application by the county's due date to continue to receive this exemption. To apply for this exemption, please contact or visit your local County Assessor's Office. Effective 2011 tax year (property taxes paid 2012), a new provision takes effect under Public Act 96-1298 that allows a disabled Veteran to continue to receive the exemption if the Veteran becomes a resident of a facility licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act or a facility operated by the United States Dept. of Veterans' Affairs as long as the residence is occupied by the spouse or the residence is unoccupied but still owned by the Veteran.
Specially Adapted Housing Tax Exemption: This exemption is allowed on the assessed value of real property for which federal funds have been used for the purchase or construction of specially adapted housing for as long as the Veteran, or the spouse, or unmarried surviving spouse resides on the property. Assistance is provided for service-connected disabled Veterans for the purpose of acquiring or remodeling suitable dwelling units with special fixtures or moveable facilities made necessary by the Veteran's permanent and total service-connected disabilities. To apply for this exemption, please contact or visit your local Veteran Service Officer.
Purple Heart: A Purple Heart License Plates may be issued to any Illinois resident who has been awarded the military's Purple Heart medal. A surviving spouse may obtain a set of plates.
Eligibility: One must provide a copy of the Discharge from Military Service (DD214), or a letter of verification showing your status as a Purple Heart recipient from the Department of Veterans' Affairs or the federal government.
Disabled Veteran: Any U.S. Armed Forces Veteran who has a 100 percent military disability or is eligible to receive a grant from the U.S. government toward the purchase of a vehicle may obtain DV plates. No fees are required for the first set of plates. NOTE: Vehicles displaying DV plates may occupy areas specifically reserved for use by handicapped persons. Parking meter fees and time limitations are also waived, except at meters, signs or other markings with time limitations of 30 minutes or less.
Eligibility: The Veteran must provide a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs verifying that Veteran: --Is 100 percent military service disabled--Is eligible to receive a grant from the U.S. government toward the purchase of a vehicle--Has received a grant from the U.S. government toward the purchase of a vehicle.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Fishing and hunting licenses are not required for disabled Veterans who are Illinois residents and receiving 10% or greater service-connected compensation, or total disability pension benefits. To acquire a permit, contact your local Veterans Service office.
Consumer Installment Loan Act: A licensee may not garnish the wages or salaries of a borrower who is a member of the military nor is the spouse of a member of the military. In addition to any rights and obligations provided under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act, a licensee shall suspend and defer collection activity against a borrower who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, or to the spouse of a borrower who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, for the duration of the deployment. A licensee may not knowingly contact the military chain of command of a borrower who is a member of the military in an effort to collect on any loan. Licensees must honor the terms of any repayment plan that they have entered into with any borrower who is a member of the military, including a repayment agreement negotiated through military counselors or third-party credit counselors. A licensee may not use any military design or insignia on any advertising material or other material distributed to a member of the military or the spouse of a member of the military that suggests military approval or endorsement of any product of that license. For purposes of this Section, "member of the military" means a person serving in the armed forces of the United States, the Illinois National Guard, or any reserve component of the armed forces of the United States.
Eligibility: "Member of the military" includes those persons engaged in (i) active duty, (ii) training or education under the supervision of the United States preliminary to induction into military service, or (iii) a period of active duty with the State of Illinois under Title 10 or Title 32 of the United States Code pursuant to order of the President or the Governor of the State of Illinois."; and on page 1, line 5, after "2-5", by inserting "2-50"; and on page 6, immediately below line 4, by inserting the following: Practices concerning members of the military.
(a) A lender may not garnish the wages or salaries of a consumer who is a member of the military nor is the spouse of a member of the military.
(b) In addition to any rights and obligations provided under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act, a lender shall suspend and defer collection activity against a consumer who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, or to the spouse of a consumer who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, for the duration of the deployment.
(c) A lender may not knowingly contact the military chain of command of a consumer who is a member of the military in an effort to collect on a payday loan. (d) Lenders must honor the terms of any repayment plan that they have entered into with any consumer, including a repayment agreement negotiated through military counselors or third-party credit counselors. (e) A lender may not use any military design or insignia on any advertising material or other material distributed to a member of the military or the spouse of a member of the military that suggests military approval or endorsement of any product of that lender.
Military Service Pass (MSP)(Chicago Transit Authority):
Who is eligible for the MSP?
a) Chicago area active duty military personnel and actively drilling members of the National Guard and Reserves who possess an Armed Forces ID card.
b) Chicago area disabled Veterans who have a qualifying service-connected disability and can provide proof that they are receiving:
--United States Department of Veterans' Affairs (USDVA) disability compensation of 10% or greater or, are receiving military disability; OR,
--retirement pay in lieu of USDVA compensation at a rate of 10% or greater.
What is required to confirm eligibility?
--For active duty military personnel, an Armed Forces ID card.
--For disabled Veterans, an official letter from the USDVA indicating eligibility for a qualifying service-connected disability payment as outlined above, along with a valid state ID card.
What if I am on active duty and in uniform?
You can ride for free and do not need to use your MSP. However, if you are on active duty but not in uniform, you must have an MSP in order to ride for free.
Specially Adapted Housing: Assistance is provided for service-connected disabled Veterans for the purpose of acquiring or remodeling suitable dwelling units with special fixtures or moveable facilities made necessary by the Veteran's permanent and total service-connected disabilities.
Eligibility: Veterans with permanent and total service-connected disabilities.
Camping & Admission Fees: 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. Documentation is required.
State Fair: Veterans and their Families are admitted to the fair grounds for free.
Veterans' Homes at Anna, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy: Quality nursing and health care services are provided for Illinois Veterans with military service of one (1) day or more during WW II, the Korean , Vietnam conflicts, or the Gulf War, or during any period of time now, or in the future, recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a period of war. The Veteran must have either been an Illinois resident upon entering the service, or have resided in the State of Illinois for one (1) year preceding application for admittance into a Veterans' Home. Peacetime Veterans with one (1) year of honorable military service may also be eligible for admission after the waiting list of eligible Veterans is exhausted. Spouses, or surviving spouses, may also qualify for admittance in cases where Veteran wait lists have been exhausted.
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.
Tax Exemption for Mobile Home: This exemption applies to the tax imposed by the Mobile Home Local Services Tax Act when that property is owned and used exclusively by a disabled Veteran, spouse or unmarried surviving spouse as a home.
Eligibility: The Veteran must have received authorization of the Specially Adapted Housing Grant by the USDVA, whether benefit was used or not. Applicant must be a permanent resident of the State of Illinois on January 1 of the tax year for which the exemption is being claimed. Disabled Veterans that now live in a mobile home and never received the Specially Adapted Housing Grant are not eligible. Please contact your local service office for more information.
Gold Star: Any Illinois resident who is a surviving widow/widower, parent or sibling(s) of a person who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and lost his/her life while serving during peacetime or war. The surviving widow/widower, parent or sibling(s) may be issued one set of plates.
Eligibility: A Gold Star Affirmation verifying receipt of the Gold Star, including the Service member's name and relationship to the applicant is required.
Purple Heart: A Purple Heart License Plates may be issued to any Illinois resident who has been awarded the military's Purple Heart medal. A surviving spouse may obtain a set of plates.
Eligibility: One must provide a copy of the Discharge from Military Service (DD214), or a letter of verification showing your status as a Purple Heart recipient from the Department of Veterans' Affairs or the federal government.
Ex-Prisoner of War: Any U.S. citizen who is a present or former member of the U.S. Armed Forces or any of its Allies and who was a prisoner of war may apply for these plates. No fees are required for the first set of plates. The widowed spouse of a former member of the U.S. Armed Forces may apply for the plates, providing that the widowed spouse: (1) was married to the ex-prisoner of war at the time the ex-prisoner of war died, and (2) is single at the time of application. The ex-prisoner of war's name must appear as owner or co-owner on both the title and the registration application.
Eligibility: Applicant must provide a form from the federal government or a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs verifying the ex-prisoner of war status.
Vietnam Veteran Survivors Compensation: Survivors are entitled to a payment of $1,000 if Veteran's death is service-connected or is the direct result of service-connected disabilities incurred in the period specified. A separate application is required.
Global War on Terrorism Survivors' Compensation: A $3,000 bonus is payable to survivors of certain persons killed by terrorist acts or hostile activities during performance of military service in periods recognized as wartime by United States campaign or service medals.
Eligibility: Residency of 1 year in Illinois prior to entering military service is required.
Burial Benefits
- Cartage and Erection Fees: When the federal government has furnished a headstone or marker, the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs shall pay up to the allowable reimbursement amount for the setting of such marker within Illinois. Currently, the maximum amount is $100.00 payable upon approval of the application.
- Graves Registration: The Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs shall maintain a card file Roll of Honor of all Veterans buried in the State of Illinois. Every person, firm or corporation owning or controlling any cemetery or burial place in this State is required to keep a permanent record of the burial of each U.S. war Veteran or memorial marker erected for this purpose.
- Indigent Veterans: 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 without sufficient means to defray the funeral expenses. The expense of such burial shall not exceed the sum of $600. Emergency food, transportation, etc. are provided in certain cases. Please contact your local county Veterans Assistance Commission for more information.
Veterans' Homes at Anna, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy: Quality nursing and health care services are provided for Illinois Veterans with military service of one (1) day or more during WW II, the Korean , Vietnam conflicts, or the Gulf War, or during any period of time now, or in the future, recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a period of war. The Veteran must have either been an Illinois resident upon entering the service, or have resided in the State of Illinois for one (1) year preceding application for admittance into a Veterans' Home. Peacetime Veterans with one (1) year of honorable military service may also be eligible for admission after the waiting list of eligible Veterans is exhausted. Spouses, or surviving spouses, may also qualify for admittance in cases where Veteran wait lists have been exhausted.
State Tax Advantage: Military pay that is in the Adjusted Gross Income may be subtracted, including, 1) pay for duty in the armed forces, including basic training; 2) pay for duty as a cadet at a service academy or in ROTC; 3) pay for duty serving in the National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve forces (including a National Guard unit of another state). Pay that cannot be subtracted is as follows, 1) military income (such as combat pay) that was excluded from the AGI on Form IL-1040, Line 1; 2) pay received under the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI); 3) pay received from the military as a civilian; 4) payments made under the Ready Reserve Mobilization income Insurance program or pay for duty as a officer in the Public Health Service
Eligibility: Military personnel; must attach W-2
Retired Military Pay: Not taxed.
National Guard Grant Program: 100% college tuition at any Illinois state-supported school after one year in the Illinois National Guard. This applies to all ranks for either full-time or part-time undergraduate study through Ph.D. level.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members of all ranks.
Illinois National Guard Scholarship: Any enlisted person or Lieutenant or Captain with at least one (1) year service in the Illinois Army/Air National Guard may participate. Available for eight (8) semesters or twelve (12) quarters of full-time or part-time undergraduate study or graduate study at any Illinois state-controlled university or community college. Recipient is entitled to payment of tuition and certain fees.
Employment Assistance for Air National Guard: State employees receive 15 days of military leave per year and 60 days of special training. Differential pay is no less than regular state pay differential for Basic Training. National Guard members are ensured employment protection while on Active Duty /ADSW & State Active Duty.
Eligibility: Illinois Air National Guard members.
Illinois Reemployment Rights: Illinois state law provides reemployment rights to Illinois National Guard personnel called to military duty. When performing federally mandated training or duty under Titles 32 or 10 of the United States Code (monthly drills, annual training, or federal active duty), these rights are in addition to those provided by federal law. When performing State Active Duty, however, federal reemployment law does not apply and state reemployment rights law applies exclusively. If the military member meets the requirements of reemployment, he/she must be restored to the job previously held, or to a position of like seniority, status, and pay, with the same increases in status, seniority, and wages that were earned during his/her military service by employees in like positions who were on the job at the time of the military member's entry into military service. Requirements of reemployment are that he/she is still qualified to perform the duties of the position of the civilian employment, application for reemployment is made within 90 days after leaving military service, or within 1 year if hospitalized after discharge, and military service was satisfactorily completed or an honorable discharge was received.
Illinois National Guard License Plates: Any active members, former members and surviving spouse of the Illinois National Guard may apply for these plates. Fee applies.
Eligibility: Applicant must provide a legible copy of a DD214 (discharge from military service) verifying service record or a DD Form 2 (U. S. Uniformed Service Identification Card) verifying National Guard status.
Medical Benefits: State Active Duty receive medical, dental and hospital benefits for injury and disease incurred in line-of-duty.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Group Insurance: The Illinois National Guard offers $5,000 for $2.00/mo; $15,000 for $5.33/mo; $25,000 for $8.67/mo; $50,000 for $17.00/mo; Spouse insurance is the same coverage. Dependent insurance is $5,000 for $1.50/mo; $10,000 for $3.00/mo. All coverage is term up to age 70 and the premium will not go up with age. New enlistees will receive $5,000 free for the 1st year with application.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Workers Compensation: Available to National Guard members while on State Active Duty.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Injury/Death Benefits: $50,000 compensation paid to beneficiary of Guard members killed on State Active Duty.
Free City Rail Transportation: Amends the Downstate Public Transportation Act, the Local Mass Transit District Act, the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act, and the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Provides that all fixed route transit services provided by a local mass transit district, the Chicago Transit Authority, the Suburban Bus Board, and the Commuter Rail Division must be provided free of charge to active duty military personnel, and actively drilling National Guard and Reserves who present a valid military identification card. Effective immediately.
Military Service Pass (Chicago Transit Authority):
Who is eligible for the MSP?
a) Chicago area active duty military personnel and actively drilling members of the National Guard and Reserves who possess an Armed Forces ID card.
b) Chicago area disabled Veterans who have a qualifying service-connected disability and can provide proof that they are receiving:
--United States Department of Veterans' Affairs (USDVA) disability compensation of 10% or greater or, are receiving military disability; OR,
--military disability retirement pay in lieu of USDVA compensation at a rate of 10% or greater.
What is required to confirm eligibility?
--For active duty military personnel, an Armed Forces ID card.
--For disabled Veterans, an official letter from the USDVA indicating eligibility for a qualifying service-connected disability payment as outlined above, along with a valid state ID card.
What if I am on active duty and in uniform?
You can ride for free and do not need to use your MSP. However, if you are on active duty but not in uniform, you must have an MSP in order to ride for free.
State Fair: Veterans and their Families are admitted to the fair grounds for free.
The Illinois Family Military Leave Act: The Illinois Family Military Leave Act requires employers with 15 to 50 employees to provide up to 15 days of unpaid Family military leave to the spouse or parent of a Soldier called to military service lasting longer than 30 days. Employers with more than 50 employees must provide up to 30 days of unpaid leave. During the period of leave, the employee's health benefits must be maintained at the expense of the employee. Additionally, the employer cannot take any adverse actions against the employee for exercising his or her rights under this act.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard members.
Military Family Relief Fund: Status-based grant: flat rate of $500. Need-based grant: up to $2,000 (maximum) depending on family financial need. Casualty-based grant: $5,000, which is not retroactive, meaning injuries incurred on or after November 23, 2009, are eligible for consideration for the $5,000 Casualty-based grant. Single people are ineligible.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard deployed 30 consecutive days or more. Active Duty Service Members who are Illinois residents.
Veterans' Homes at Anna, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy: Quality nursing and health care services are provided for Illinois Veterans with military service of one (1) day or more during WW II, the Korean , Vietnam conflicts, or the Gulf War, or during any period of time now, or in the future, recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a period of war. The Veteran must have either been an Illinois resident upon entering the service, or have resided in the State of Illinois for one (1) year preceding application for admittance into a Veterans' Home. Peacetime Veterans with one (1) year of honorable military service may also be eligible for admission after the waiting list of eligible Veterans is exhausted. Spouses, or surviving spouses, may also qualify for admittance in cases where Veteran wait lists have been exhausted.
State Tax Advantage: Military pay that is in the Adjusted Gross Income may be subtracted, including, 1) pay for duty in the armed forces, including basic training; 2) pay for duty as a cadet at a service academy or in ROTC; 3) pay for duty serving in the National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve forces (including a National Guard unit of another state). Pay that cannot be subtracted is as follows, 1) military income (such as combat pay) that was excluded from the AGI on Form IL-1040, Line 1; 2) pay received under the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI); 3) pay received from the military as a civilian; 4) payments made under the Ready Reserve Mobilization income Insurance program or pay for duty as a officer in the Public Health Service
Eligibility: Military personnel; must attach W-2
Retired Military Pay: Not taxed.
Armed Forces Reserves License Plate: Any active ready reserve member, former member of the reserve or surviving spouse of a reservist of the United States Armed Forces may apply for as many sets of these plates as he or she has vehicles titled, registered or leased in his or her name. Fee applies and is subject to change.
Eligibility: Reservist must provide documentation showing current and/or former reserve status. A letter from your commanding officer, a legible copy of DD Form 2 (U.S. Uniformed Service Identification Card) showing current reserve status, DD214 (discharge from military service) verifying reserve service record, or a copy of your orders verifying reserves status is necessary.
Consumer Installment Loan Act: A licensee may not garnish the wages or salaries of a borrower who is a member of the military nor is the spouse of a member of the military. In addition to any rights and obligations provided under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act, a licensee shall suspend and defer collection activity against a borrower who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, or to the spouse of a borrower who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, for the duration of the deployment. A licensee may not knowingly contact the military chain of command of a borrower who is a member of the military in an effort to collect on any loan. Licensees must honor the terms of any repayment plan that they have entered into with any borrower who is a member of the military, including a repayment agreement negotiated through military counselors or third-party credit counselors. A licensee may not use any military design or insignia on any advertising material or other material distributed to a member of the military or the spouse of a member of the military that suggests military approval or endorsement of any product of that license. For purposes of this Section, "member of the military" means a person serving in the armed forces of the United States, the Illinois National Guard, or any reserve component of the armed forces of the United States.
Eligibility: "Member of the military" includes those persons engaged in (i) active duty, (ii) training or education under the supervision of the United States preliminary to induction into military service, or (iii) a period of active duty with the State of Illinois under Title 10 or Title 32 of the United States Code pursuant to order of the President or the Governor of the State of Illinois."; and on page 1, line 5, after "2-5", by inserting "2-50"; and on page 6, immediately below line 4, by inserting the following: Practices concerning members of the military.
(a) A lender may not garnish the wages or salaries of a consumer who is a member of the military nor is the spouse of a member of the military.
(b) In addition to any rights and obligations provided under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act, a lender shall suspend and defer collection activity against a consumer who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, or to the spouse of a consumer who is a member of the military and who has been deployed to a combat or combat support posting, for the duration of the deployment.
(c) A lender may not knowingly contact the military chain of command of a consumer who is a member of the military in an effort to collect on a payday loan. (d) Lenders must honor the terms of any repayment plan that they have entered into with any consumer, including a repayment agreement negotiated through military counselors or third-party credit counselors. (e) A lender may not use any military design or insignia on any advertising material or other material distributed to a member of the military or the spouse of a member of the military that suggests military approval or endorsement of any product of that lender.
Free City Rail Transportation: Amends the Downstate Public Transportation Act, the Local Mass Transit District Act, the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act, and the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Provides that all fixed route transit services provided by a local mass transit district, the Chicago Transit Authority, the Suburban Bus Board, and the Commuter Rail Division must be provided free of charge to active duty military personnel, and actively drilling National Guard and Reserves who present a valid military identification card. Effective immediately.
Military Service Pass (Chicago Transit Authority):
Who is eligible for the MSP?
a) Chicago area active duty military personnel and actively drilling members of the National Guard and Reserves who possess an Armed Forces ID card.
b) Chicago area disabled Veterans who have a qualifying service-connected disability and can provide proof that they are receiving:
--United States Department of Veterans' Affairs (USDVA) disability compensation of 10% or greater or, are receiving military disability; OR,
--military disability retirement pay in lieu of USDVA compensation at a rate of 10% or greater.
What is required to confirm eligibility?
--For active duty military personnel, an Armed Forces ID card.
--For disabled Veterans, an official letter from the USDVA indicating eligibility for a qualifying service-connected disability payment as outlined above, along with a valid state ID card.
What if I am on active duty and in uniform?
You can ride for free and do not need to use your MSP. However, if you are on active duty but not in uniform, you must have an MSP in order to ride for free.
State Fair: Veterans and their Families are admitted to the fair grounds for free.
Military Family Relief Fund: Status-based grant: flat rate of $500. Need-based grant: up to $2,000 (maximum) depending on family financial need. Casualty-based grant: $5,000, which is not retroactive, meaning injuries incurred on or after November 23, 2009, are eligible for consideration for the $5,000 Casualty-based grant. Single people are ineligible.
Eligibility: Illinois National Guard deployed 30 consecutive days or more. Active Duty Service Members who are Illinois residents.
Veterans' Homes at Anna, LaSalle, Manteno and Quincy: Quality nursing and health care services are provided for Illinois Veterans with military service of one (1) day or more during WW II, the Korean , Vietnam conflicts, or the Gulf War, or during any period of time now, or in the future, recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a period of war. The Veteran must have either been an Illinois resident upon entering the service, or have resided in the State of Illinois for one (1) year preceding application for admittance into a Veterans' Home. Peacetime Veterans with one (1) year of honorable military service may also be eligible for admission after the waiting list of eligible Veterans is exhausted. Spouses, or surviving spouses, may also qualify for admittance in cases where Veteran wait lists have been exhausted.
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in Illinois
VA Medical Centers
Chicago: Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, 820 S. Damen Ave, 312-569-8387
Danville: VA Illiana Health Care System, 1900 E. Main St, 217-554-3000
Hines: Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, 5000 South 5th Ave, 708-202-8387
Marion: Marion VA Medical Center, 2401 West Main St, 618-997-5311
North Chicago: Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, 3001 Green Bay Rd, 847-688-1900
Outpatient Clinics
Bourbonnais: Kankakee Clinic, 581 William Latham Dr, 815-932-3823
Chicago: Auburn Gresham (Chicago) Clinic, 7731 South Halsted St, 773-962-3700
Chicago: Lakeside Clinic, 211 E. Ontario St., 12th Fl, 312-469-4850
Chicago Heights: Chicago Heights Clinic, 30 East 15th St, Suite 314, 708-754-8880
Elgin: Elgin Clinic, 450 Dundee Ave, 847-742-5920
Freeport: Freeport Clinic, 1301 Kiwanis Dr, 815-235-4881
Great Lakes: 237 Fisher Clinic, 2410 Sampson St, 847-688-6712
Joliet: Joliet Clinic, 2000 Glenwood Ave, 815-744-0492
LaSalle: LaSalle Clinic, 4461 N Progress Village, 815-223-9678
McHenry: McHenry Clinic, 620 South Route 31, 815-759-2306
North Aurora: Aurora Clinic, 161 South Lincolnway, 630-859-2504
Oak Lawn: Oak Lawn Clinic, 10201 S. Cicero Ave, 708-499-3675
Rockford: Rockford Clinic, 816 Featherstone Rd, 815-227-0081
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Belleville: Belleville Clinic, 6500 W Main St, 314-286-6988 X 55320
Carbondale: Carbondale Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 1130 East Walnut St, 618-351-1031
Decatur: Decatur VA Outpatient Clinic, 3035 E. Mound Rd, 217-875-2670
Effingham: Effingham Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 1901 S. 4th St. Suite 21, 217-347-7600
Galesburg: Galesburg VA Clinic, 387 East Grove St, 309-343-0311
Harrisburg: Harrisburg Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 608 Rollie Moore Dr, 618-252-6150
Mattoon: Mattoon Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 501 Lake Land Blvd, 217-258-3370
Mt. Vernon: Mt. Vernon Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 4105 N. Water Tower Place, 618- 246-2910
Peoria: Bob Michel VA Outpatient Clinic, 7717 N. Orange Prairie Rd, 309-589-6800
Quincy: Quincy VA Clinic, 721 Broadway St, 217-224-3366
Springfield: Springfield VA Outpatient Clinic, 5850 S. Sixth St, 217-529-5046
Sterling: Sterling VA Outpatient Clinic, 406 Ave C, 815-632-6200
Vet Center
Aurora: DuPage County Vet Center, 750 Shoreline Dr, Suite 150, 630-585-1853
Chicago: Chicago Vet Center, 7731 S. Halsted St, Suite 200, 773-962-3740
Chicago Heights: Chicago Heights Vet Center, 1600 Halsted St, 708-754-0340
East St. Louis: East St. Louis Vet Center, 1265 N. 89th St, Suite 5, 618-397-6602
Evanston: Evanston Vet Center, 565 Howard St. 847-332-1019
Moline: Quad Cities Vet Center, 1529 46th Ave #6, 309-762-6955
Forest Park: Oak Park Vet Center, 1515 South Harlem, 708-383-3225
Orland Park: Orland Park Vet Center, 8651 W.159th St, Suite 1, 708-444-0561
Peoria: Peoria Vet Center, 8305 N. Allen Rd, Suite 1, 309-689-9708
Rockford: Rockford Vet Center, 7015 Rote Rd, Suite 105, 815-395-1276
Springfield: Springfield, IL Vet Center, 1227 S. Ninth St, 217-492-4955
VISN
Westchester: System Four Westbrook Corporate Tower, 11301 W. Cermak Rd, Suite 810, 708-492-3900
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=1
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-alabama-iowa#ILLINOIS http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/vehicles/license_plate_guide/military/ http://www2.illinois.gov/veterans/documents/veterans%20benefits2.pdfhttp://tax.illinois.gov/http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2734&ChapAct=820%26nbsp%3BILCS%26nbsp%3B151%2F&ChapterID=68&ChapterName=EMPLOYMENT&ActName=Family+Military+Leave+Act http://www2.illinois.gov/Veterans/Pages/default.aspx
Document Review Date: 31 October 2012