Benefits · Tax Relief
How to apply for Illinois Veterans with Disabilities Homestead Exemption (Partial, 30%–69% Rating)
Chief County Assessment Office (statewide exemption under 35 ILCS 200/15-169, overseen by the Illinois Department of Revenue)
Who it's for
Illinois reduces the taxable value of a disabled veteran's home based on the VA disability rating: a service-connected rating of 30–49% takes $2,500 off the home's equalized assessed value (EAV), and 50–69% takes off $5,000. The exemption applies to the primary residence through the Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities (SHEVD). Veterans rated 70% or higher get a much larger benefit — the first $250,000 of EAV is fully exempt — listed separately in these results. An unmarried surviving spouse can keep the exemption on the home, or carry it to a new primary residence. Apply with Form PTAX-342 at the Chief County Assessment Office, then re-verify each year with Form PTAX-342-R.
The exemption amount steps with the VA rating tier: $2,500 off EAV at 30–49% and $5,000 at 50–69%. A rating of 70% or higher qualifies for the full exemption instead (up to $250,000 of EAV). Dollar savings depend on the local property tax rate — the Chief County Assessment Office applies the exemption and can confirm the exact effect.
What you'll need
- VA disability award letter or certification showing the service-connected rating percentage
- Photo ID (driver's license or state ID)
- Completed Form PTAX-342 (Application for Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities) from the Chief County Assessment Office
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
Renewals
annual — file Form PTAX-342-R (Annual Verification of Eligibility) with the Chief County Assessment Office each year
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.