Idaho Veterans: Understanding Your Benefits and How to Access Them
For the men and women who’ve served our country, Idaho offers a wide range of benefits designed to honor their service and support their well-being. Yet many veterans and families don’t realize how much help is available or how to access it. In a new episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight speaks with Mitzie Cheldelin from the Idaho Division of Veterans Services (IDVS) to explore the programs, benefits, and resources that every Idaho veteran should know about.
Comprehensive Support for Idaho Veterans
The Idaho Division of Veterans Services offers a robust network of assistance to veterans and their loved ones across the state. From housing and education to healthcare and memorial services, the IDVS ensures veterans receive the respect and care they’ve earned.
Among its core programs are:
- Idaho State Veterans Homes located in Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Post Falls. These homes provide high-quality long-term care and rehabilitation services for aging and disabled veterans.
- Idaho State Veterans Cemeteries in Boise and Blackfoot, with a third location in north Idaho. These sacred grounds offer honorable, no-cost burial options for veterans and eligible family members.
- Education & Training Support through the GI Bill certification process for Idaho institutions, helping veterans and dependents use earned benefits for school or vocational training.
Guidance from Certified Service Officers
For many veterans, understanding VA claims and disability benefits can feel overwhelming. That’s where certified Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) come in. These professionals are trained and accredited to guide veterans through the process of filing claims for service-connected disabilities, accessing VA healthcare, and obtaining assistance with long-term care benefits such as Aid and Attendance.
As Mitzie Cheldelin explains, service officers work one-on-one with veterans and their families to ensure they receive the maximum benefits available—completely free of charge. They can also help review existing disability ratings to make sure they reflect current needs and conditions.
Useful Links & Resources
- PACT Act and your VA benefits: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/ Veterans Affairs
- Idaho Disabled Veterans Property Tax Benefit: https://tax.idaho.gov/taxes/property/homeowners/veteran-benefit/ Idaho State Tax Commission+1
- 2025 Federal Benefits for Veterans Guide: https://department.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Federal-Benefits-for-Veterans-Dependents-and-Survivors.pdf S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- List of Idaho veteran state benefits: https://veterans.idaho.gov/benefits-services/state/ idaho.gov
If you or someone you love could benefit from personalized assistance, contact the Idaho Division of Veterans Services at 208-780-1380.
Expanded Awareness and Community Outreach
Beyond direct benefits, the Division continues to strengthen its community outreach initiatives. These programs help veterans connect with local resources, healthcare providers, and support networks. Whether you’re a recent veteran transitioning to civilian life or a senior veteran planning for the future, these outreach programs help bridge the gap between information and action.
The Division’s mission is simple but powerful: no veteran should ever feel forgotten or unsupported.
Estate Planning and Veteran Benefits
Integrating veterans’ benefits into a comprehensive estate plan can protect a veteran’s legacy and provide financial stability for loved ones. By coordinating legal documents with available state and federal benefits, families can ensure long-term security and peace of mind. Idaho Veterans are invited to contact Idaho Estate Planning to discuss legacy planning; https://www.idahoestateplanning.com/contact
Listen and Learn
🎧 Listen to this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast featuring Mitzie Cheldelin of the Idaho Division of Veterans Services to learn more about veteran programs, eligibility, and how to access free state resources.
👉 IdahoEstatePlanning.com/podcast
📞 To reach a certified service officer, call 208-780-1380.
