Iowa Military and Veteran Benefits

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State Taxes
Education Benefits
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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Iowa
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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 Veteran Service Offices: The IDVA has County Veteran 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, health supplies, medical or dental care, job placement, counseling, and transportation.

For more information, please call 515-252-4698, 800-838-4692, or email idva@iowa.gov.

Learn more about the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, County Veteran Service Offices


Welcome to Iowa sign

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 in the U.S. Armed Forces 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 Disabled Veteran with prostetic legForces 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.

Learn more about Iowa Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Military Disability Retirement Pay

Iowa State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DICis a tax-free monetary benefit Honor Guardpaid 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.

Learn more about Iowa State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Iowa State Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not taxed in Iowa.

Learn more about the Iowa State Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities

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.

Learn more about Iowa Tax Exclusion for Withdrawals from Retirement Plans for Reserve Component Service Members Called to Active Duty

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.

Learn more about Forgiveness of Iowa Income Tax for Deceased Service Members and those Missing and Presumed Dead

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 and meet one of 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, or
  • Former or Current service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves or Iowa National Guard who served at least 20 years, or
  • 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, or
  • Former reserve component service member whose enlistment would have occurred during the Korean Conflict but chose to serve five years in a reserve component, or
  • Honorably discharged Veterans who served during a qualifying period of service (refer to the application for a list of qualifying periods of service), or
  • 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 Department of Revenue, 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 total and permanent 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 as long as they continue to live on the homestead.

All claims must be filed on or before July 1 and must include a VA Benefit Summary Letter and a DD214. Tax credit applications 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

Iowa Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits: Iowa does not tax Social Security benefits.

Learn more about the Iowa Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits

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What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Education Benefits?

Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship (INGSS): INGSS provides annual awards to IowaNational 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 college aid
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
  • Serving 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
  • Maintains 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 Slide Show
INGSS National Guard Webpage

Learn more about the Iowa National Guard 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 in the U.S. Armed Forces, or who died as a result of that service. Children of service members who died prior to September 11, 2001, are eligible for $600 per year with a maximum benefit of $3,000. Children of service members who died following September 11, 2001, are eligible for up to $11,844 per year in tuition assistance.
Who is eligible for Iowa War Orphans Tuition Assistance? To be eligible student must meet the following requirements:

Children of Veterans who Died Before September 11, 2001: Children may be eligible if their service member parent died under the following circumstances:

  • Died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces during one of the following time periods:
    • World War I between April 6, 1917, and June 2, 1921
    • World War II between September 16, 1940, and December 31, 1946
    • Korean Conflict between June 25, 1950, and January 31, 1955
    • Vietnam Conflict between August 5, 1964, and May 7, 1975
    • Persian Gulf Conflict between August 2, 1990, and Feb 28, 1991
  • Active and reserve component service members who die while serving on federal active duty
  • Reserve component service members who die during authorized training, or under military orders

Financial assistance is provided for eligible children to attend an Iowa college, business school, or vocational training. Children must have lived in Iowa for at least two years before they can apply. Eligible children will receive $600 per year, with a lifetime maximum of $3,000.

Children of Veterans who Died on or after September 11, 2001: Children may be eligible if their service member parent died under the following circumstances:

  • An active or reserve component service member who died while serving on federal active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
  • Reserve component service member who died in the line of duty during authorized training, or under military orders

The service member parent must have lived in Iowa for at least 6 months before they entered service in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Children must attend a postsecondary educational institution in Iowa. Financial assistance is capped at the highest in-state undergraduate tuition at a state university, minus any state and federal education benefits, grants, or scholarships, or the amount of the child's established financial need, whichever is less. The lifetime maximum benefit is five times the highest in-state undergraduate tuition. Students must start using the scholarship before age 26 and are eligible until their 31 st birthday.

For more information, please call 800-838-4692, or 515-252-4698.
Iowa Administrative Code, War Orphans Educational Assistance Fund

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 discharged Iowa 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)

For more information, please call 800-838-4692, or 515-252-4698.
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): Thepurpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their Children sitting on the steps of a schoolparents 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

MIC3 Assistance Request

Points of Contact
Phone:515-480-4283

Learn more about the Iowa Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

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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 serving 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-temporary state 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 coordinate services provided to eligible applicants within the IowaWORKS system.

Some of the services provided are:

  • Development of an individual employment plan
  • Résumé building and translation of military skills into civilian equivalent
  • Referrals to partner programs
  • Assistance with internet-based job searches
  • One-on-one career and job counseling
  • Labor market information
  • Assistance tailoring skills and abilities to a new job

A Veteran or the spouse of a Veteran who has served at least one day on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for Priority of Service for employment and training services that are funded, wholly or in part, by the U.S. Department of Labor.

IowaWORKS also maintains the Veterans’ Work in Iowa webpage that has online job listings, training and workshop resources to help improve job hunting. Veteran-friendly employers can use the portal to sort through a database of Veteran résumés.

For more information, please complete the registration on the IowaWORKS Veterans Portal to be contacted by a Veteran Career Planner, or visit the nearest IowaWORKS Center.

Learn more about Iowa Veterans Employment Services

Iowa SkillBridge Program for Service Members Separating from the U.S. Armed Forces: Iowa Workforce Development has partnered with the Department of Defense (DoD) to offer the SkillBridge program that offers internships for transitioning service members. With commander approval, service members can participate in internships prior to separation, helping them gain marketable skills and experience to enhance their civilian career opportunities.

Transitioning service members who participate in SkillBridge can expect to receive:

  • On-the-job training at a private employer for up to six months before leaving the U.S. Armed Forces
  • Salary and benefits will continue to be paid during time in the program
  • Training programs often lead to future employment opportunities at the same employer or in a similar occupation

For more information, please email skillbridge@iwd.iowa.gov.
DOD SkillBridge Program Factsheet

Learn more about the Iowa SkillBridge Program for Service Members Separating from the U.S. Armed Forces

Iowa State Employment Veteran Hiring Preference: Iowa offers Veteran hiring preference when hiring for state employment including state departments, county governments, city governments, and school districts. 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 service members or Veterans must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
  • Service member or honorably discharged Veteran who served in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves on federal active duty for 90 or more days (other than for training)
  • Service member or honorably discharged Veteran who served in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves for at least 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

Iowa Private Employer Hiring and Promotion Preference for Veterans and their Spouses: Iowa private employers are authorized by law to implement a hiring and promotion preference for Veterans and eligible spouses.
Who is eligible for the Iowa Private Employer Hiring and Promotion Preference for Veterans and their Spouses? To be eligible service members or Veterans must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
  • Service member or honorably discharged Veteran who served in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves on federal active duty for 90 or more days (other than for training)
  • Service member or honorably discharged Veteran who served in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves for at least at least 20 years

Iowa Code 35.1

For a Spouse to be eligible they must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Spouse of Veteran who has a compensable, permanent, service-connected disability rating from the VA or a military retirement board
  • Surviving spouse of a service member who died while serving on active duty during wartime, or as a result of that service

Learn more about the Iowa Private Employer Hiring and Promotion Preference for Veterans and their Spouse

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 85th ARW 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 anindividual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments Iowa Air National Guardlasting 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 are 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 andtheir spouses looking for careeropportunities. The program alsoHome Base Iowa Program logo 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, 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
National Association of State Workforce Agencies, Hilton Honors Military Program

Learn more about the Iowa Hilton Honors Military Program

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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
  • SF8 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.
Iowa WorkForce Development, Apply for Unemployment Benefits Webpage

Learn more about Iowa Unemployment Insurance

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What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits?

Veteran Designation on Iowa Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Honorably discharged Veteransmay request a Veteran designation on their Iowa driver's license or non-operator ID card. IA Veterans Designation License
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) 90 or more days 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 Veteran Service 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
Iowa County Veteran Service 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

Learn more about the Temporary Extension of Iowa Driver's licenses for Resident Service Members and their Dependents

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 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 Purple Heart License Plate: Service members or Veterans who received the Purple Heart are Iowa Purple Heart License Plate 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 Disabled Veteran License Plate: A disabled Veteran who received a specially adapted Iowa Disabled Veteran License Plate vehicle from the U.S. Government is eligible for the Iowa Disabled Veteran license plate.

This license plate is exempt 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 Veteran License Plate: Honorably discharged Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces Iowa Veteran License Plate 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 Gold Star Family License Plate: Family members of service members who Iowa Gold Star Family License Plate 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

Iowa Military Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Test Waivers: Iowa offers CDL testing exemptions to resident service members and former service members based on their military training and experience.

The even exchange option allows service members who have certain Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the U.S. Armed Forces to have their CDL knowledge and skills testing waived. To be eligible service members must have worked in one of the following Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the past year:

  • Army – 88M, 92F, 14T
  • Air Force – 2T1, 2F0, 3E2
  • Marine Corps – 3531
  • Navy – EO

The skills waiver option is available to service members who have military commercial driving training and experience but do not have the Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings for the even exchange option. Applicants must have been licensed for at least two years on a military vehicle similar to the commercial vehicle class they are applying for. This option only allows a waiver of the skills testing and does not include the knowledge testing requirement.

All applicants must also meet the following requirements:

  • Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past two years
  • Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past two years
  • Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying offenses (listed on the application)
  • Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations (listed on the application)
  • Have not had had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) as a result of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault
  • Must have an Iowa driver’s license

Applicants must submit completed application forms (including certification by their commanding officer) to an Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) CDL Services office.

For more information, please call the Iowa DOT Motor Vehicle Division's help desk at 515-244-1052.
Iowa DOT, Military CDL Test Waiver Application

Learn more about the Iowa Military Commercial Driver’s License Test Waivers

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What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?

Iowa National Guard State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered to Iowa National Guard Service members is made up of several voluntary group life insurance policies that are designed to help meet the needs of National Guard service members and their IA National Guard Officers Association logofamilies. Every Iowa National Guard Service member is eligible for $1,000 in coverage at no cost to the service member.

SSLI Benefits:

  • Over $1,000,000 in coverage through a combination of SSLI plans
  • Coverage available for spouse and children
  • Premiums remain the same after separation
  • Coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
  • No war or aviation exclusion
  • New Recruits are eligible for $10,000 SSLI coverage at no cost for the first year, enrollment must occur within 180 days of joining the Iowa National Guard
  • Can be paid through payroll deduction

    Who is eligible for Iowa National Guard SSLI? Iowa National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for coverage.

    For more information, please call 800-633-8333.
    National Guard SSLI Webpage

    Learn more about the Iowa National Guard State -Sponsored Life 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 militaryService. 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

    Doctor with patient 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

    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 who are injured, become ill, disabled, or die in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation.

    Learn more about Iowa National Guard Service Member Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty

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    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, are authorized to hunt or fish without Deer standing in the woodsa 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 a service-connected disability rating by Man fishing from a dock at the lake 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

    Learn more about Iowa Lifetime Hunting and Fishing License for Resident Disabled Veterans or Prisoners of War

    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.

    Learn more about how Nonresident Service Members Can Purchase Iowa Hunting Licenses at Resident Prices

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    What are my Iowa Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?

    Iowa Veterans Trust Fund logo Iowa Veterans Trust Fund: The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund provides financial assistance to Veterans and their families.

    Benefits Available:

    • Travel expenses for wounded Veterans or visiting spouse - up to $1000
    • Job training or college tuition assistance for retraining or postsecondary education to enable the Veteran to obtain gainful employment - up to $5,000
    • Unemployment assistance due to prolonged service-connected physical or mental condition, or disability - up to $500 monthly, $3,000 per 12-month period with a lifetime maximum of $6,000
    • Dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug assistance for Veterans and dependents
      • Dental care - up to $10,000
      • Vision care - up to $500
      • Hearing care - up to $1,500 per ear
      • Prescription drugs up to - $1,500 per eligible family member
    • Durable equipment to allow a Veteran to remain in or fully utilize their home - up to $5,000 in a 12-month period with a lifetime maximum of $10,000
    • Individual or family counseling and substance abuse programs - up to $150 per hour, $40 per hour for group counseling, up to $5,000 per family in a 12–month period, with reduced limits based on the following:
      • Individual Veteran counseling services - $2,500 maximum
      • Individual Veteran substance abuse treatment and counseling combined -$3,500 maximum
    • Ambulance and emergency room services for Veterans and lodging for immediate family members - up to $10,000
    • Emergency housing repair and emergency transitional housing assistance - up to $10,000
    • Emergency vehicle repair or replacement - up to $5,000
    • Expenses related to establishing a minor child as a dependent of a deceased Veteran - up to $2,500
    • Rental housing assistance for Veterans - up to $1,000

    Who is eligible for the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund? Iowa resident Veterans, 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.

    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 Veteran Service Office to begin the application process.
    IDVA, Iowa Veterans Trust Fund Application
    IDVA, County Veteran Service 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 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 a grant, 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 service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces 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:

    Clinical Services:

    • Pharmacy services
    • Physical, speech, occupational, and respiratory therapies
    • Laboratory services
    • X-Ray
    • Electrocardiogram
    • Prosthesis (including dentures)
    • Eyeglasses
    • Hearing aids
    • Immunizations
    • Health care supplies
    • Oxygen
    • Nutritional supplements

    Non-Clinical Services:

    • Recreational services
    • Chaplain services
    • Nutritional services
    • Social work services
    • Resident work program
    • Library
    • Transportation to outside medical appointments
    • Banking services
    • Bill paying assistance
    • Assistance applying for federal, state, and non-government benefits
    • Wi-fi
    • Gift shop
    • Barber and beauty shop
    • Laundry services
    • Massage therapy

    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.

    For more information, please contact the Admissions Coordinator at 800-645-4591, or 641-753-4325.​

    Iowa Veterans Home

    Veterans home

    1301 Summit Street
    Marshalltown, IA 50158
    Phone: 641-752-1501 / 800-645-4591
    Email: idva@iowa.gov

    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, nearVan Meter, offers a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members.Iowa Veterans Cemetery

    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. Veterans are buried at no charge; eligible family member burials are charged a $300 fee.
    Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits Brochure
    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 the 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 MilitaryHomeownership Program provides eligible service members and Veterans a $5,000 grant for down payment and closing costs on a qualifying home purchase. The funds Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) logomay 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, to present, and received a discharge other than dishonorable
      • Active duty service 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 mortgages 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

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    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

    IA National Cemetery 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

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    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 Army National Guard

    Iowa Air National Guard
    132 nd Wing
    185 th Air Refueling Wing

    U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
    88 th Readiness Division


    Resources

    Iowa Legislature

    Iowa Code

    U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Iowa

    Iowa Department of Transportation, Vehicle Registration

    Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs

    Army National Guard Benefits

    Air National Guard Benefits

    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

    Military State Tax Guide

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    Document Review Date: 31 May 2024