State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Iowa
Iowa Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of Iowa Military and Veterans Benefits: Iowa offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including Veterans employment assistance, War Orphans Tuition Assistance, special vehicle license plates, as well as hunting and fishing license benefits. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), County Veterans Service Offices: The IDVA has County Veterans Service Offices located throughout Iowa that can assist Veterans, and their Families find and apply for benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
Some counties may also have dedicated funds to assist Veterans and Family members with temporary shelter, utilities, food and health supplies, medical or dental care, job placement, counseling and transportation.
Learn more about the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, County Veterans Service Offices
Iowa Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Iowa Taxes on Military Pay:Military pay received by Service members serving on active duty is not taxed in Iowa.
Learn more about Iowa Taxes on Military Pay
Iowa Taxes on Military Retired Pay:Military retired pay, that is included in federal gross income, is exempt from Iowa income tax.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes.
Learn more about Iowa Military Retired Pay Income Taxes
Iowa Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed 
Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:
- Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their Families
- Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
- Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program
See IRS Publication 525 for more information.
Iowa State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of Service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of 
Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)/ Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP)/ Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Iowa State Tax Benefits: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not taxed in Iowa.
Iowa Military Student Loan Income Tax Exemption:Military student loan repayments included in federal adjusted gross income are exempt from Iowa income tax for active and reserve component Service members who are serving in an active duty status.
Learn more about the Iowa Military Student Loan Income Tax Exemption
Iowa Tax Exclusion for Withdrawals from Retirement Plans for Reserve Component Service Members Called to Active Duty: National Guard Service members called to federal or state active duty, or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members called to federal active duty can make a withdrawal from a qualified retirement account that is not subject to Iowa income tax or state tax penalty. Federal Taxes will still apply.
Forgiveness of Iowa Income Tax for Deceased Service Members and those Missing and Presumed Dead: Iowa income tax is not owed if a Service member’s federal income taxes were forgiven because of one of the following circumstances:
- Service member was killed in a combat zone
- Service member is missing in action and presumed dead
- Service member was killed outside the U.S. due to a terrorist act or military action
Single Status:Iowa income tax is forgiven for the tax year the Service member was killed or was declared missing and presumed dead and for the tax year prior to the year of death.
Married / Year of Death:If the Service member was married at the time of death, all tax is forgiven for the year of death if the filing status is joint or married filing separately on the combined return for that tax year.
Married / Prior Year:All tax is forgiven if a Service member who was married at the time of death and a joint return or a married filing separate return was filed for the year prior to death. Please note that if the deceased had filed using the married filing separately on the combined return status, only the state income tax attributable to the deceased Service member is forgiven. Prior-year returns cannot be amended to change the filing status.
Iowa Income tax Exclusion for Combat Pay and Extension to File: Military pay received by a resident Service member for active duty service in a combat zone, or hazardous duty area that is excluded from their federal adjusted gross income is also exempt from Iowa income tax.
Service members have 180 days from their return from a combat zone or when they are released from hospitalization due to injuries they received in a combat zone to file their state income taxes.
Learn more about Iowa Income tax Exclusion for Combat Pay and Extension to File
Iowa Military Property Tax Exemption:The Iowa Military Property Tax exemption reduces a Veteran's assessed home value for property taxes.
Who is eligible for Iowa Military Property Tax Exemption?To be eligible for the Iowa Military Property Tax Exemption the applicant must be an Iowa resident meet the following requirements:
- Honorably discharged Veteran, who served a minimum of 18 months, or served less than 18 months and was discharged due to a service-connected injury
- Former or Current Service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves or Iowa National Guard who served at least 20 years
- Service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves or Iowa National Guard who served on federal active duty (not for training) for a minimum of 90 days
- Former reserve component Service member whose enlistment would have occurred during the Korean Conflict but chose to serve five years in a reserve component
- Honorably discharged Veterans who served during a qualifying period of service (refer to the application for a list of qualifying periods of service)
- Family member of an eligible Veteran:
- Spouse
- Surviving Spouse
- Minor Child
- Widowed parent
The amount of exemption varies according to the local taxing jurisdiction. The home must have been owned by 1 July of each claimed year. Exemptions are filed with the county or city tax assessor.
Iowa Assessor Directory
Iowa Tax Form 54-146, Application for Military Service Property Tax Exemption
Learn more about the Iowa Military Property Tax Exemption
Iowa Disabled Veteran's Homestead Tax Credit:Iowa offers a 100% property tax credit for homesteads owned by eligible Veterans and the Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran. The Veteran must own and occupy the property as a homestead on July 1 of each year, declare residency in Iowa for income tax purposes and occupy the property for at least six months each year. Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and nursing home residents who do not occupy the home are also eligible.
This exemption is limited to a maximum size of 1/2 acre where, the home and outbuildings are located within a city limit. For properties located outside city limits the maximum size is 40 acres which includes the house and any outbuildings.
Who is eligible for the Iowa Disabled Veteran's Homestead Tax Credit?Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA or Veterans who have a permanent and total disability rating based on individual unemployability paid at the 100% disability rate are eligible.
An unremarried Surviving Spouse of a deceased disabled Veteran receiving Dependency Indemnity Compensation from the VA also qualifies. Surviving Spouses may continue to receive the credit if they continue to live in the homestead.
All claims must be filed on or before July 1 and must include a VA benefits letter and a DD214. Exemptions are filed with the county or city tax assessor.
Iowa Assessor Directory
Iowa Tax Form 54-049, Application for Disabled Veteran Homestead Property Tax Credit
Iowa Department of Revenue, Disabled Veteran Homestead Tax Credit Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the Iowa Disabled Veteran's Homestead Tax Credit
Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA): Under the MSRRA and Iowa law, a nonresident Service member’s Spouse’s income from wages, salaries, tips, etc., may be excluded from Iowa income tax if they meet the following requirements:
- Service member Spouse is serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and is in Iowa in compliance with their orders
- Spouse is in Iowa only to be with the Service member
- Spouse has the same state of residence as the Service member
Learn more about Military Spouse Residency Relief Act (MSRRA)
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship (INGSS): INGSS provides annual awards to Iowa National Guard Service members who attend eligible Iowa colleges and universities. The INGSS may be combined with other federally funded programs such as Federal 
Student Aid, Federal Tuition Assistance, and GI Bill programs.
Iowa Board of Regents Eligible Institutions
INGSS can be used for up to 120 credit hours or its equivalent, or until the Service member receives a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. Exceptions can be granted for up to 130 credit hours if the Service member is pursuing a qualifying science, technology, engineering or mathematics degree.
The maximum award will not exceed 100% of the Iowa Board of Regents resident tuition rate or 100% of the tuition rate at the institution the Service member attends, whichever is lower.
Who is eligible for INGSS?Service members must meet the following requirements:
- Iowa resident
- Service member in the Iowa National Guard for each term they receive benefits
- Satisfactorily completed required initial entry training
- Maintains satisfactory performance in the Iowa National Guard
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
For more information, please call the Iowa National Guard Education and Incentives Office at 515-252-4468.
Iowa Financial Aid Application (Online)
INGSS Flyer
INGSS How to Apply Fact Sheet
INGSS National Guard Webpage
Learn more about the Iowa National Service Scholarship
Iowa War Orphans Tuition Assistance: Iowa offers tuition assistance at an Iowa post-secondary institution to the Children of resident Service members killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or who died as a result of that service. Children of Service members killed prior to September 11, 2001, are eligible for $600 per year with a maximum benefit of $3,000. Children of Service members killed following September 11, 2001, are eligible for up to $11,844 per year in tuition assistance. The War Orphans Fund is available only if the Child does not qualify for Federal VA educational benefits.
Who is eligible for Iowa War Orphans Tuition Assistance? To be eligible student must meet the following requirements: Children are eligible up to age 26 and must meet the following requirements:
- Graduated from high school (or its equivalent)
- Lived in Iowa for at least two years immediately prior to filing an application
- Attending a postsecondary educational institution approved by the IDVA
For more information, please call 800-838-4692 or 515-252-4698.
Iowa War Orphans Tuition Assistance Instructions
Iowa War Orphan Tuition Assistance Application
Learn more about Iowa War Orphans Tuition Assistance
Iowa Operation Recognition, High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans: The Iowa Operation Recognition Program will issue an honorary high school diploma to eligible Veterans who did not complete high school (in Iowa) due to enlisting in the U.S. Armed Forces. Honorary diplomas may be issued posthumously.
Who is eligible for the Iowa Operation Recognition High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans? Honorably dischargedIowa Veterans who served during the following time periods are eligible:
- April 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918 (World War I)
- September 16, 1940, through December 31, 1946 (World War II)
- June 25, 1950, through January 31, 1955 (Korean Conflict)
- February 28, 1961, through May 5, 1975 (Vietnam Conflict)
Iowa Operation Recognition, High School Diploma Application for Iowa Veterans
Learn more about the Iowa Operation Recognition, High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans
Branstad-Reynolds, Children of Fallen Iowa Service Members Scholarship Fund: The Branstad-Reynolds Scholarship fund provides post-secondary educational scholarships for Children of Service members who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces after September 11, 2001.
Scholarships may be used to pay for the costs of tuition, books, fees, housing, special tools, and equipment required for coursework, school-approved tutoring, and any other required educational expenses. Once all educational expenses are met, any remaining funds are released to the student to cover other expenses as needed. This is a state funded program and may be used in conjunction with any federal benefits.
Who is eligible for the Branstad-Reynolds, Children of Fallen Iowa Service Members Scholarship Fund? The Branstad-Reynolds Scholarship applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Children of Service members who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces after September 11, 2001
- Deceased Service members must have met the following requirements:
- Resident of Iowa at the time of entering the U.S. Armed Forces and at the time of death
- Death does not have to be combat-related
- Student is attending or will attend an Iowa post-secondary educational institution
For more information, please call 800-838-4692 or 515-252-4698.
Branstad-Reynolds, Children of Fallen Iowa Service Members Scholarship Fund Information and Application
Learn more about the Branstad-Reynolds, Children of Fallen Iowa Service Members Scholarship Fund
Iowa Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on Children of military Families because of frequent moves and deployment of 
their parents by:
- Facilitating the prompt enrollment of Children of military Families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
- Facilitating the student placement process through which Children of military Families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic and social activities
- Facilitating the on-time graduation of Children of military Families
- Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
- Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools and military Families under this compact
- Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military Children
- Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents, and the student in order to achieve educational success for the student
Points of Contact
Phone:515-480-4283
Learn more about the Iowa Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Iowa State Employee Paid Leave for Military Duty: Non-temporary state employees who are Service members in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, who are ordered to duty, are eligible for paid leave for 30 workdays each calendar year.
Who is eligible for Iowa State Employee Paid Leave for Military Duty? Non-temporarystate employees when ordered to military service are eligible.
Learn more about Iowa State Employee Paid Leave for Military Duty
Iowa Workforce Development, Veterans Employment Services:Iowa Workforce Development through the IowaWORKSCenters offer services that connect Veterans, transitioning Service members and eligible Family members with resources and career opportunities. Veteran Career Planners, who are also Veterans, coordinate all services provided to eligible applicants within the Iowa WORKS system. Some of the services provided are:
- Comprehensive assessment of job skills
- Develop an individual employment plan
- Conduct career planning services
- Develop job interviewing and resume writing skills
- Help place eligible Veterans in federally-funded employment and training programs
- Monitor job listings from federal agencies and federal contractors to ensure Veterans get priority service in referral to these jobs
- Provide additional assistance to meet the employment needs of eligible Veterans
Who is eligible for Iowa Veterans Employment Services?A Veteran or the Spouse of a Veteran who has served at least one day on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (including U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard Service members) and received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible for Priority of Service for all employment and training services.
Depending on the type of service or resource being offered, Priority of Service may mean:
- Eligible person receives access to the service or resource earlier in time than a non-eligible person, or
- If the service or resource is limited, the eligible person receives access to the service or resource instead of, or before the non-eligible person
Those who meet the following requirements may be eligible for additional, individualized assistance through Veteran Career Planners:
- Served on active duty for more than 180 consecutive days
- Vietnam era Veteran who served between February 28, 1961, through May 7, 1975, or in Vietnam or between August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975
- Between 18 and 24 years old
- Involuntarily separated due to a reduction in force
- Does not meet Career Readiness Standards
- Service member who is wounded, ill or injured and receiving treatment in a military treatment facility or warrior transition unit or the Spouse or other Family caregiver of that Service member
- Was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability
- Served in support of a conflict or campaign
- Was released from service under a Sole Survivorship discharge
- Receiving VA disability compensation or have a claim pending to receive compensation
- Homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
- Recently-separated Service member, unemployed for 27 or more weeks in the previous 12 months
- Incarcerated or has ever been incarcerated
- Never earned a high school diploma or equivalent certificate
- Low income, receiving public assistance, housing, food, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or other programs
- Spouse of a Veteran who:
- Died from a service-connected disability, or while a disability was being evaluated
- Declared missing, captured, or detained
- 100% total and permanent disability
IowaWORKS also maintains the Veterans’ Work in Iowa webpage that will match Military Occupational Specialties to job vacancies.
IowaWORKS Center Directory
IowaWORKS Eligibility Triage Form
Learn more about Iowa Veterans Employment Services
Iowa State Employment Veteran Hiring Preference: Iowa offers Veteran hiring preference when hiring for state employment. Veterans will have five percentage points added to passing examinations for hiring. Five additional percentage points are added to passing examinations if the Veteran has a service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability benefits, or a pension from the VA. Veterans Preference points are added to the final scores and are used to rank applicants for interview selection. This preference is not available for promotions or appointments of chiefs of a police department or fire department.
Who is eligible for Iowa State Employment Veteran Hiring Preference? To be eligible Veterans must have received a discharge under honorable conditions and meet one of the following requirements:
- Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Service member serving in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who served on federal active duty for 90 or more days (other than for training)
- A Service member serving in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who served at least 20 years
To be eligible for the additional five points Veterans must have a service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability benefits, or a pension from the VA. Veterans who received the Purple Heart are also considered eligible. For more information, please contact the Iowa Department of Employment Services, Veterans Employment Representative at 515-725-5452.
Iowa Code 35.1
Learn more about Iowa State Employment Veteran Employment Preference
Federal Employment Veteran’s Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans 
in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.
5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:
- During a war, or
- During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
- During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
- In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference
10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference:Ten points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .
10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.
10-Point Disability Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
- A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
- A Veteran who received a Purple Heart
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of Spouses, Surviving Spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a Spouse (including Surviving Spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.
Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the Spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:
- Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
- Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
- Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability
Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.
A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.
Learn more about Federal Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preferences
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects Service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.
Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that an individual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments 
lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.
Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.
Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning Service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning Service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.
Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for Service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the Service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits?Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve, or National Guard Service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.
The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Home Base Iowa Program:Home Base Iowa connects Iowa businesses with qualified Veterans and their Spouses looking for career 
opportunities. The program also provides resources to help connect Veterans and their Families with higher education institutions and when transitioning to a new community.The site features job postings, links to job fairs, and up-to-date information about educational opportunities, National Guard recruiting, job training, and much more. For more information, please use the Home Base Iowa Program online contact page.
Learn more about the Home Base Iowa Program
Iowa Hilton Honors Military Program:The Iowa Hilton Honors Military Program helps make the career transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former Service members. The Hilton Honors Military Program will provide hotel accommodations for required travel while they are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to a total of 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities.
Recipients must have a Hilton Honors account to receive the points. To create a Hilton Honors Military account please go to the Join Hilton Honors, online application webpage or call 800-548-8690. After creating an account applicants can then visit their nearest IowaWORKS Job Center with their rewards number. Staff will verify planned activity and complete a referral form that is sent to approving authorities for processing. For more information, please visit the nearest IowaWORKS Job Center or call 515-725-5452.
Iowa Hilton Honors Military Flyer
Learn more about the Iowa Hilton Honors Military Program
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Iowa Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI provides short term financial benefits for those who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is paid entirely by employers who are covered by the Iowa Employment Security Law. To be eligible for UI benefits the claimant must meet the following requirements:
- Totally or partially unemployed
- Worked and earned a minimum amount of wages in work covered by UI in the last 15 to 18 months
- Lost their job through no fault of their own
- Able and available for work
- Must verify identity through online verification or provide required documents
- Actively seeking work (work search may be waived if certain criteria are met)
- Registered for work (unless the work search requirement is waived)
The following information is needed when filing for UI benefits:
- Social Security Number
- Name, payroll address and telephone number of last employer
- Start and end dates of employment
- Amounts of vacation pay, severance, etc. received (if applicable)
- Alien registration number (if not a U.S. citizen)
- DD214 (Member Copy 4) if a former Service member during the last 18 months
- SF-8 if a former federal government employee in the last 18 months
- Names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of dependents claimed as exemptions on federal income tax return
Applicants may file for UI benefits at the Iowa Workforce Development, Unemployment Benefits Online Application System or at a local IowaWORKS Center.
IowaWORKS Centers Directory
For additional information, please refer to the Iowa UI Claimant Handbook or contact Customer Service at 866-239-0843.
Learn more about Iowa Unemployment Insurance
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefit?
Veteran Designation on Iowa Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Honorably discharged Veterans may request a Veteran designation on their Iowa driver's license or non-operator ID card. 
Who is eligible for a Veteran Designation on Iowa Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards? To be eligible, Veterans must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (not for training) and received an honorable discharge. Veterans are required to provide a copy of their DD214 as proof of eligibility.
Veterans can apply at any Iowa Driver’s License Service Center or through their County Veterans Affairs Office. If applying for a new driver’s license or ID card or renewing a previous one, all usual fees apply. There is a fee of $10 if requesting a duplicate or adding the Veteran designation to a current driver’s license or ID card.
Iowa Department of Transportation, Certificate of Eligibility for Veteran Designation on Driver License/ID Card Application Form 432035
Iowa County Veterans Offices Directory
Iowa Driver's License Service Centers Directory
Learn more about a Veteran Designation on Iowa Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards
Temporary Extension of Iowa Driver's licenses for Resident Service Members and their Dependents: Active duty Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who cannot return to Iowa to renew their driver's license in person and do not meet eligibility requirements to renew online, can receive an extension that is valid until six months after separation from active duty service. Dependents of a Service member are eligible for an extension that is valid until five years after the license expiration date.
Who is eligible for a Temporary Extension of Iowa Driver's licenses for Resident Service Members and their Dependents? Iowa resident active duty Service members and their dependents are eligible for an extension.
Applicants must complete the Iowa Department of Transportation, Iowa Driver's License For Active Duty Military Extension Application, and provide a copy of their active duty assignment orders. Dependents are required to provide a copy of their dependent military ID card. Applications and required documentation can be emailed, faxed, or mailed to:
Driver and Identification Services
Iowa Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, IA 50306-9204
Phone:515-244-8725
Fax: 515-239-1837
Email: mymvd@iowadot.us
Iowa Military Service License Plates: Iowa offers 24 distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible Service members, Veterans, retired Service members, and certain Family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply.
Military Service license plate may be used on the following vehicles:
- Automobiles
- Multipurpose vehicles
- Sport utility vehicles
- Vans
- Motorcycles
- Trucks
- Motor homes
- Trailers and travel trailers
Application submission instructions are on the application. For more information, please call 515-237-3110 or email dot.plates@iowadot.us
Learn more about Iowa Military Service License Plates
Iowa Veteran License Plate:Honorably discharged Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the Iowa Veteran license plate. National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members must have served at least 90 days on 
active duty (other than for training), or have 20 years of service, were discharged under honorable conditions and be eligible for military retired pay at age 60.
Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214, or other documentation such as WD AGO form 53-55 approved by the IDVA, that show the dates of service and a discharge under honorable conditions.
Numbered plate fee:
- One set free
- Additional sets $25
- $5 annual validation fee
- Annual registration renewal fee
Personalized plate fee:
- One set $25
- Additional sets $50
- $5 annual validation fee
- Annual registration renewal fee
Iowa Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application G-9
Learn more about the Iowa Veteran License Plate
Iowa Purple Heart License Plate:Service members or Veterans who received the Purple Heart are eligible or the Iowa Purple Heart license plate. Applicants must provide a copy an official documentation verifying they received the Purple Heart.
Numbered plate fee:
- One set free
- Additional sets $25
- $5 annual validation fee
- Annual registration renewal fee
Personalized plate fee:
- One set $25
- Additional sets $50
- $5 annual validation fee
- Annual registration renewal fee
Vehicles displaying this license plate are authorized free parking in city-owned or operated parking lots, or city-metered parking spaces in Iowa.
Iowa Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application G-12
Learn more about the Iowa Purple Heart License Plate
Iowa Medal of Honor License Plate:Service members or Veterans who received the Medal of Honor are eligible for the Iowa Medal of Honor license plate. Applicants must provide a copy of official documentation verifying they received the Medal of Honor.The Iowa Medal of Honor License plate may be requested with the branch of service of the applicant. Personalized plates are not available.
Numbered plate fee:
- No initial fee
- No annual renewal fees
An unremarried Surviving Spouse may continue to use the Medal of Honor license plate after the death of the Veteran. Vehicles displaying this license plate are authorized free parking in city-owned or operated parking lots, or city-metered parking spaces in Iowa.
Iowa Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application G-12
Learn more about the Iowa Medal of Honor License Plate
Iowa Disabled Veteran License Plate:A Disabled Veteran who received a specially adapted vehicle from the U.S. Government is eligible for the Iowa Disabled Veteran license plate.
This license plate isexempt from all fees for one vehicle provided by the U.S. government.Personalized plates are not available.
Applicants must provide certification from the VA that their vehicle is specially adapted and provided by the U.S. Government. Vehicles displaying this license plate are authorized free parking in city-owned or operated parking lots, or city-metered parking spaces in Iowa. Veterans must apply for this license plate at their local Iowa County Treasurers Office.
Learn more about the Iowa Disabled Veteran License Plate
Iowa Gold Star Family License Plate:Family members of Service members who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during a time of military conflict or who died as a result of that service are eligible for the Iowa Gold Star Family license plate. The owner of the vehicle must be a Surviving Spouse, parent, Child or sibling of the deceased Service member.
Applicants must provide official documentation showing their relationship to the deceased Service member and official documentation that the Service member died as a result of their military service.
Numbered plate fee:
- One set free
- Additional sets at $25
- $5 annual registration fee
- Annual registration renewal fee
Personalized plate fee:
- One set $25
- Additional sets $50
- $5 annual validation fee
- Annual registration renewal fee
Iowa Department of Transportation, Special Plate Application G-10
Learn more about the Iowa Gold Star Family License Plate
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
Iowa National Guard State-Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered through the Officer and Enlisted Associations of Iowa to Iowa National Guard Service members is made up of several voluntary group life policies that are designed to help meet the needs of National Guard Service members and their Families.
SSLI Benefits:
- Claims paid in 24 hours
- Dependent coverage offered (continues after separation)
- Premiums remain the same after separation
- Can be paid through payroll deduction
- Free $1k coverage for all Iowa National Guard Service members
- Free $10k for every new member
- No war Clause
- No restrictions on cause of death
Other optional plans are available, for more information please call 515-270-6373 or 515-883-0267.
Who is eligible for Iowa National Guard SSLI? Iowa National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for coverage.
Learn more about the Iowa National Guard State-Sponsored Life Insurance
TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard Service members) and their Families who meet the following qualifications:
- Not on active duty orders
- Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
- Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a Family member.
This plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a Service member is not on active duty and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance: The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component Service members and their Families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in 
military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
- Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
- Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
- Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
- Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
- Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance
Iowa National Guard Service Member Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty: Iowa National Guard Service members serving on state active duty who are injured, become ill, disabled or die in the line of duty are eligible for benefits and compensation under the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Laws.
If the Service member becomes totally disabled, they will continue to receive pay and allowances based on their pay grade. If they are partially disabled, they can receive partial pay and allowances.
If the Service member is killed in the line of duty, due to illness or injury their dependents will receive the maximum compensation provided by law.
Who is eligible for Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty? Iowa National Guard Service members serving on state active duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation.
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Iowa Hunting and Fishing License Exemption for Resident Service Members on Leave: Resident Service members serving on 
active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces on leave from a duty station located outside Iowa, may hunt or fish without a license. Service members must carry their leave papers and a copy of a Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), showing a tax deduction for Iowa income taxes, while hunting or fishing.
Who is eligible for Iowa Hunting and Fishing License Exemption for Resident Service Members on Leave? Iowa resident Service members on leave from a duty station located outside Iowa are eligible.
Learn more about Iowa Hunting and Fishing License Exemption for Resident Service Members on Leave
Iowa Lifetime Hunting and Fishing License for Resident Disabled Veterans or Prisoners of War: Resident Veterans who have been awarded at least a 0% service-connected disability rating by the VA or were former prisoners of war can receive a 
lifetime hunting or fishing license for $7.
Who is eligible for an Iowa Lifetime Hunting and Fishing License? To qualify, the Veteran must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and was disabled as a result of that service or was a former prisoner of war. Documentation requirements and submission instructions are listed on the application.
Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Application for Iowa Lifetime Hunting and Fishing License for Resident Disabled Veterans
Nonresident Service Members Can Purchase Iowa Hunting Licenses at Resident Prices: Active duty nonresident Service members can purchase Iowa Hunting licenses for resident prices.
Who is eligible to Purchase Iowa Hunting Licenses at Resident Prices? Service members who are assigned to a military installation in Iowa, or adjoining Iowa and lives in Iowa, or lives on the adjoining military installation, are eligible to purchase Iowa hunting licenses at resident prices.
What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Iowa Veterans Trust Fund: The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund provides financial assistance to Veterans and their Families.
Benefits available:
- Travel – for wounded Veterans directly related to follow-up medical care – up to $1,000
- Unemployment Assistance – due to prolonged physical, mental condition or disability causing their unemployment - $3,000 in a twelve month period, with a lifetime maximum of $6,000
- Job Training or Education Assistance – lifetime maximum of $5,000
- Individual or Family Counseling – up to $5,000 in a 12 month period
- Dental – up to $10,000 lifetime maximum
- Audiology – up to $1,500 for each ear in a 12 month period
- Emergency Housing Repairs – up to $10,000 lifetime maximum
- Emergency Vehicle Repairs – up to $5,000 onetime use
- Emergency Room care – lifetime maximum of $7,500
- Durable Medical Equipment – $5,000 in a 12 month period, lifetime maximum benefit of $10,000
Who is eligible for the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund? Iowa resident Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces after completing a minimum of 90 days of active duty service (other than for training), their Spouse and dependents are
eligible for financial assistance through the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund. The Veteran’s income must not be more than 300% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. Funds can be used for assistance such as:
- Unemployment or underemployment issued due to service-related causes
- Vision, hearing, or dental care
- Durable medical equipment
- Prescription drugs
- Counseling and substance abuse services
- Vehicle repairs
- Housing repair
- Emergency transitional housing
Applications are reviewed once a month by the Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs. Applicants are notified by mail of the decision with instructions on how to proceed. Applicants should contact their local Iowa Veterans Affairs (IDVA) County Veterans Office to begin the application process.
IDVA, Iowa Veterans Trust Fund Application
IDVA, County Veterans Office Directory
Learn more about the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund
Iowa Injured Veterans Grant Program:The Iowa Injured Veterans Grant Program provides up to $10,000 in financial assistance to injured Service members or discharged Veterans so Family members may be with them during their recovery. Treatment or services must be provided at a location that is not the Service member’s or Veteran's home of record.
Grants are paid by the IDVA in increments of $2,500 up to a maximum of $10,000 in the following manner:
- $2,500- When medically evacuated from a combat zone following a combat-related injury
- $2,500- 30 days after evacuation date if still hospitalized, receiving medical treatment or rehabilitation services by the military or VA, this does not include follow-up appointments
- $2,500- 60 days after evacuation date if still hospitalized, receiving medical treatment or rehabilitation services by the military or the VA, this does not include follow-up appointments
- $2,500 - 90 days after evacuation date if still hospitalized, receiving medical treatment or rehabilitation services by the military or the VA, this does not include follow-up appointments
Who is eligible for the Iowa Injured Veterans Grant Program? To be eligible for assistance, the Service member or Veteran must meet one of the following requirements:
- Iowa resident who is or was a member of an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces who served on active duty at any time after September 11, 2001, and if discharged or released it must have been under honorable conditions, or
- Nonresident of Iowa who is or was a member the Iowa National Guard who served on active duty at any time after September 11, 2001, and if discharged it must have been under honorable conditions
In addition, an eligible Service member or Veteran must meet all the following conditions:
- Received a combat-related injury in a combat zone or hostile fire zone
- Combat-related injury must have been serious enough to require medical evacuation from the combat zone to a military hospital or the injury required at least 30 consecutive days of hospitalization at a military hospital
- Combat-related injury must have been received in the line of duty
The Veteran will remain eligible for the grant after discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces so long as they continue to receive medical treatment or rehabilitation services for the specific injury or illness.
Iowa Injured Veteran Grant Application
Learn more about the Iowa Injured Veterans Grant Program
Iowa Veterans Home: The Iowa Veterans' home, located in Marshalltown, is a long-term health care facility providing multiple levels of care for honorably discharged Veterans, their Spouses, Surviving Spouses and Gold Star parents.
The Iowa Veterans Home provides the following services:
- Medical and dental care
- Nursing care
- Social work
- Psychological services
- Podiatry
- Optometry
- Audiology
- Recreational services
- Physical, speech, and occupational therapies
- Chaplain services
- Nutritional services
- Dermatology
- Respiratory care
- Pulmonary care consults
- Lab and x-ray services
Who is eligible for care at the Iowa Veterans Home? Iowa resident honorably discharged Veterans, their Spouse, Surviving Spouse and Gold Star parents who require nursing or residential care are eligible for admission to the Iowa Veterans Home.
Spouses must be married to a Veteran for at least one year before the date of application. Surviving Spouses must have been married at least one year before the date of the Veteran’s death.
Gold Star parents are the parents of a U.S. Armed Forces Service member who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during a time of military conflict, or as a result of that service.
Iowa Code 35D.1
For more information, please contact the Admissions Coordinator at 800-645-4591, or 641-753-4325.
Iowa Veterans Home
7105 NW 70th Avenue
Camp Dodge, Building 3465
Johnston, IA 50131-1824
Phone: 515-252-4698 / 800-838-4692
Fax: 515-727-3713
Iowa Veterans Home, Veteran Application Packet
Iowa Veterans Home, Spouse Application Packet
Iowa Veterans Home, Gold Star Parent Application Packet
Iowa Code Regarding the Iowa Veterans Home
Learn more about the Iowa Veterans Home
Iowa Veterans Cemetery: The Iowa Veterans Cemetery, located 10 miles west of Des Moines, near Van Meter, offers a dignified final 
resting place for Veterans and their eligible Family members.
Burial options include in-ground burial of caskets and cremated remains and above ground placement of cremated remains in a columbarium niche. A standard government upright granite headstone or niche marker is provided at no cost to an eligible Veteran. Veterans are buried at no charge; eligible Family members will be buried for a $300 fee.
Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, State Benefits Information
Who is eligible for Burial at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for the Iowa Veterans Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage . The following are the general eligibility requirements:
- Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
- Died while serving on active duty, or
- Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their death occurred before age 60), or
- Reserve component Service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
- Spouses and Children (burial of dependent Children is limited to unmarried Children under 21 years old or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution or a Child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)
- Iowa residency is not a requirement for burial
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Pre-Registration for Burial Determination to establish eligibility prior to need.
Iowa Veterans Cemetery
34024 Veterans Memorial Drive
Adel, Iowa 50003-3300
Phone: 515-996-9048
Fax: 515-996-9102
Iowa Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Learn more about the Iowa Veterans Cemetery
Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) Military Homeownership Assistance Program: The IFA Military Homeownership Program provides eligible Service members and Veterans a $5,000 grant for down payment and closing costs on a qualifying home 
purchase. The funds may be used with the FirstHome and Homes for Iowans Programs.
Who is eligible for the Iowa Military Homeownership Assistance Program? To be eligible applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Served at least 90 days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces between August 2, 1990, through April 6, 1991, or September 11, 2001 and received a discharge other than dishonorable
- Active duty does not need to be consecutive
- Inactive duty training, annual training and active duty for training does not count toward the active duty requirement
- Veteran who has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, and served on active duty between August 2, 1990, through April 6, 1991, or September 11, 2001, to present and received a discharge other than dishonorable
- The Surviving Spouse of an eligible Service member or Veteran who received a discharge other than dishonorable
Other requirements:
- Receive prior approval before closing on a qualified home
- Must use an IFA participating or facilitating lender to receive a non-IFA first mortgage, if IFA determines it is economically feasible and financially advantageous
- IFA will approve a grant with non-IFA financing if the lender demonstrates that the financing is a fixed rate, permanent, fully amortizing mortgage loan that is lower-cost than the most comparable IFA mortgage available at the time the loan estimate is issued
The home must meet the following criteria:
- Must be in Iowa
- Must be occupied by the homebuyer as their primary residence within 60 days of closing
- Single-Family home attached to a permanent foundation and taxed as real estate, including:
- Stick-built homes
- Modular homes
- Manufactured homes on a permanent foundation that is taxed as real estate
- Condominiums
- Townhomes
- Property containing up to four units, if one of the units is the primary residence of the applicant
Interested homebuyers must apply by contacting an IFA participating lender. This program is limited to funding availability. For more information, please email homebuyer.inquiry@iowafinance.com
IFA Interest Rates
IFA Lender and Realtor Search Tool
IFA Eligibility Quick Check
Learn more about the Iowa Finance Authority, Military Homeownership Assistance Program
Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), Benefit Specialists: IDVA has Benefits Specialists, accredited by the VA, who specialize in VA and state benefits. These include pension, disability compensation, and many more. Benefit Specialists will advise Veterans and their Family members concerning what benefits they may be eligible for.
Benefit Specialists can also represent Veterans with VA claims to determine if their disability award or denial was correct. To speak to a Benefits Specialist please call 515-252-4698 or 800-838-4692.
Learn more about the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs Benefit Specialists
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Iowa
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Iowa: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and Family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Iowa
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Iowa:The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in Iowa. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Iowa
Military Installations in Iowa
Please see the Iowa Military Resource Locator for additional information.
Active Duty
Army
Iowa Army Ammunition Plant
Air Force
There are no active duty Air Force installations in Iowa.
National Guard
Iowa National Guard
Iowa Air National Guard
132 nd Wing
185 th Air Refueling Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
88 th Readiness Division
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Iowa
Iowa Department of Transportation, Vehicle Registration
Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs
U.S. Department of Labor, Veteran's Employment and Career Transition Advisor
Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission, Iowa
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory