Idaho offers a comprehensive suite of benefits for veterans, ranging from housing and financial assistance to recreational opportunities and employment benefits. Here’s an overview:
Housing Benefits
- Veterans Homes: Idaho has state veterans homes in Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Post Falls offering skilled nursing care. Eligibility includes honorable discharge, Idaho residency, and unemployability due to age, illness, or disability.
Financial Benefits
- Income Tax: Military pay is exempt from state taxes if stationed out-of-state. Retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) income deductions are available, with specific amounts for single and joint filers based on age and disability status.
- Property Tax: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability or deemed unemployable by the VA can receive significant property tax reductions. There are also benefits for veterans with at least a 10% service-connected disability based on income.
- Grocery Tax Credit: Available to veterans aged 65 or older, or disabled and aged 62 or older, who may not be required to file an income tax return.
- Emergency Financial Assistance: A grant of up to $1,000 is available for wartime veterans facing extreme emergencies, with specific eligibility criteria.
Employment Benefits
- State Employment Preference: Veterans receive preference points for state employment, with additional points for disabled veterans. These points are also available to surviving spouses.
- Occupational Licenses: Expedited processing and fee waivers for military members and their families, with credit for military training towards licensing requirements.
Recreational Benefits
- State Parks Veterans Pass: 100% service-connected disabled veterans enjoy free access and camping at state parks.
- Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Reduced fees for resident disabled veterans and nonresident disabled veterans with a VA disability rating of at least 40%.
Burial Benefits
- State Veterans Cemeteries: Located in Blackfoot and Boise, following National Veterans Cemetery eligibility requirements without the need for state residency.