Calling All Veteran Job-Seekers: Sign up Now!
Job-seeking veterans -- whether unemployed, underemployed, or just seeking a change -- should enroll in the Illinois Department of Employment Security's new, free jobs site, Illinois Job Link (IJL). IJL is an Internet-based job search tool that features current job openings and includes both statewide and nationwide job banks. By enrolling in IJL, veterans will be able to navigate job opportunities; may qualify for assistance from IDES's veteran employment representatives; and will be included in the main database used to search for qualified veterans as IDES works directly with major employers seeking to hire veterans.
For advanced job notifications for veterans, skill certification and training programs, and access to other services, sign up for a "Plus Account" today, it's free! For additional information on setting up an account, FAQ's, and IJL resources, please visit IDES's website.
State Government/Employment Preference
Preference is given in Central Management Services entrance examinations to honorably discharged veterans who served in times of hostilities and peacetime. Contact the Veterans Outreach Program for more information at (217)524-1313 or (800)643-8138.
Jobs for Vets
The Department of Employment Security/Illinois Job Service provides a trained "Veterans Representative" to help you get the training and job you need. An electronic statewide job search information system is available at different locations throughout the State of Illinois. Contact your local Employment Security office for more information.
The Department of Human Services provides services for veterans with mental/physical disabilities that assist them in returning to gainful employment.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs have a number of Small Business Administration loan and Job Training Programs.
Veteran's Tax Credit
Illinois employers can earn an income tax credit of up to $1,200 annually for hiring Veterans of Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, or Operation Iraqi Freedom. The credit is 10 percent of the total wages paid to every qualified Veteran hired after January 1, 2010. Veterans must work at least 185 days during the tax year for the employer to qualify for the Veteran's Tax Credit.
For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2007, and ending before January 1, 2010, the Veterans Jobs Credit is 5 percent of qualified wages and may not exceed $600 per year for any veteran.
The Veteran’s Tax Credit can be claimed by employers on income tax returns.
To file for the Veteran’s Tax Credit, please visit the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) and file Income Tax Form 1299-D for corporations, Income Tax Form 1299-C for individuals, or Income Tax Form 1299-A for partnerships and S corporations. For further questions, please contact IDOR for additional information.