Office is currently closed due to COVID.

The mission of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) is to empower veterans and their families to thrive. We do this by assisting them in navigating the system of federal state and local resources and benefits; by providing long-term health care for eligible veterans in our Veterans’ Homes; and by partnering with other agencies and non-profits to help veterans address education, mental health, housing, employment, and other challenges.

Who We Are

The IDVA team consists of more than 1,200 staff – many of whom are veterans – who are committed to serving the Illinois veteran community.

•Veteran Service Officers
•Veterans’ Home Staff
•Central Office
•Special programs, including the Illinois Warrior Assistance Program & Veterans Cash
•State-Approving Agency (SAA)
•Grants/Records

Who We Are Not

IDVA is NOT a part of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA – or “the VA,” as it’s often termed). VA medical centers (Jesse Brown, Hines, etc.) and USDVA benefits (disability compensation, etc.) are administered and funded by the federal government. IDVA is an Illinois executive agency, funded and administered under the auspices of the Governor, and operates independently of USDVA.

While the USDVA provides the bulk of healthcare and financial benefits for the nation’s veterans, IDVA provides critical augmenting programs and services for Illinois veterans. Additionally, IDVA’s Veteran Services Officers are experts in both federal and state benefits and resources; they stand by to assist veterans in navigating and applying for USDVA and IDVA programs and benefits.