IDAHO STATE VETERAN BENEFITS
We endeavor to keep this information current, but it is subject to change without notice.
IDAHO VETERAN STATE EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE
Idaho adds preference points to applicant’s examination scores when they apply for competitive state positions. Veterans without disabilities who have honorable discharges get 5 points and those with disabilities have 10 points added to their final scores. Surviving spouses who have not remarried received the number of preference points their veteran would have received.
IDAHO VETERAN FINANCIAL BENEFITS
Income Tax
The Gem State does not tax active duty military pay when resident’s duty station is out-of-state.
They also do not tax military retirement pay if the retiree is more than 65 years or disabled and more than 62. Surviving spouses who do not remarry receive the same consideration.
Property Tax
As of July 01, 2018, 100-percent service-connected disabled Veterans can seek the State to lower their property taxes. Qualified applicants may save up to $1,320.
Grocery Tax Credit
Idaho offers a Grocery Tax Credit to certain eligible veterans, and if their VA disability is their sole source of income, they do not need to file a tax return. To qualify for the Grocery Tax Credit, Veterans must be 65 or older, or age 62 or older if disabled.
Financial Assistance
Veterans who entered the Armed Forces from Idaho or who have lived in the state for five years or more may be eligible to receive emergency financial assistance. The State grants up to $1000 to wartime veterans provided the request comes within 90 days of an extreme event or emergency in the veteran’s life.
IDAHO VETERAN RECREATION BENEFITS
Idaho State Parks
Veteran residents of the State who are 100% disabled with service-connected disabilities can enjoy day passes and camping at any Idaho State Park at no charge.
Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Certain disabled veterans pay less fees to receive hunting and fishing licenses: Disabled veterans who are Idahoans pay discounted fees. Non-residents who are at least 40% service-connected pay a discounted rate for non-resident hunting and fishing licenses.
IDAHO VETERAN HOUSING BENEFITS
Idaho does not restrict admissions to one of their three state veterans’ homes solely to veterans with wartime service; however, these wartime Vets do receive priority in the admittance process. Veterans homes are in Boise, Lewiston and Pocatello.
Other eligibility requirements include:
- Being an Idaho resident
- Being discharged from the military under honorable conditions
- Being unemployable due to illness, disability or age
In addition, Veteran must be eligible and apply for Medicaid benefits or he or she must pay monthly fees.
IDAHO STATE VETERANS CEMETERY
Idaho does not restrict burial in their veteran cemetery (next to Dry Creek Cemetery in Northwest Boise) to veterans who are Idaho residents. However, they do follow the National Veterans Cemetery eligibility requirements and Idaho law when deciding eligibility.
You can find more information regarding these benefits and other programs at the Idaho Division of Veterans Services website.
