Iowa offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to its veterans, covering financial assistance, education, housing, employment, and more. Here’s a summary of some key benefits:
Financial and Housing Assistance
- Injured Veterans Grant: Veterans seriously injured in the line of duty after September 11, 2001, may be eligible for up to $10,000.
- Homeownership Assistance: A $5,000 grant is available for service members who served after September 11, 2001, and purchased a home after March 10, 2005.
- Property Tax Exemption: Veterans can reduce their home’s assessed value for tax purposes by up to $1,852 for property tax purposes.
- Disabled Veteran’s Homestead Tax Credit: Offers 100% property tax exemption for 100% service-connected disabled veterans.
Employment Benefits
- Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive preference in state, public works, county, city, and school jobs, with additional points added for VA disability or pension.
Educational Benefits
- War Orphans Educational Aid: Provides up to $11,844 per year for children of Iowa veterans killed in action post-September 11, 2001. Dependents of those killed in action prior are eligible for $600 per year, up to $3,000.
- National Guard Tuition Benefits: Guard members in good standing can receive up to $4,637 per semester for full-time enrollment, with partial refunds for mobilized members.
Recreational Benefits
- Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License: Veterans with at least a 0% VA disability rating can obtain a lifetime license for $7.00.
Burial Benefits
- Iowa Veterans Cemetery: Located near Van Meter, it provides a dignified burial place for veterans, their spouses, and dependent children. There’s no charge for honorably discharged veterans, while a $300 fee applies for spouses/dependents.
Additional Benefits
- Veterans Home: The Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown offers long-term care for veterans and their spouses, with costs based on need but ensuring no one is turned away due to inability to pay.
- Military Retirement Pay: Exempt from state income tax, including active duty, retired pay, and SBP payments.