Illinois pays a cash bonus for service during World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf and the Global War on Terrorism, and compensation for having been a prisoner of war in Southeast Asia. You have to have lived in Illinois for the 12 months before you entered the U.S. Armed Forces, and if you have separated, you have to have been honorably discharged. Each era has its own amount and its own medal or service requirements.
Apply online through the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs war bonus application and attach a copy of your discharge documents. If you are still serving, submit a completed Illinois Veterans Compensation Armed Forces Certificate instead of discharge documents.
A copy of your discharge documents, or the Illinois Veterans Compensation Armed Forces Certificate if you are still serving, plus award documentation for the medal your era requires.
