Illinois Veteran Benefits
Veteran and military benefits available in Illinois: property-tax exemptions, tuition waivers, license and park-fee waivers, and more — each verified from an official Illinois source.
Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans w/ Disabilities (SHEVD)
$2,500–$5,000 off EAV — full exemption at 70%+
Illinois reduces a disabled veteran's home equalized assessed value (EAV): 30–49% rating → $2,500 reduction; 50–69% → $5,000 reduction; 70% or more → total exemption (on the first $250,000 of EAV). You must reapply each year.
Returning Veterans' Homestead Exemption
$5,000 off EAV when you return from active duty
Illinois gives a one-time $5,000 reduction in equalized assessed value to veterans returning from active duty in an armed conflict, applied for the tax year they return (and the following year).
Free Hunting & Fishing Licenses
No license needed for disabled veterans
Illinois does not require fishing or hunting licenses for disabled veterans (any state of residency) receiving 10% or greater service-connected compensation or a total disability pension. You carry an affidavit issued by the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs.
Free State Park Camping & Admission
Free camping & admission at Illinois state parks
Illinois disabled veterans and former prisoners of war may camp free of charge and are exempt from camping and admission fees at Illinois Department of Natural Resources parks (for qualifying Illinois residents).