Mission Ready: Estate Planning Tips for Veterans

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many overlook how military benefits intersect with real estate and estate planning. Whether you used a VA loan or are looking to pass your legacy to your children, here are critical steps to ensure your plan is as disciplined as your service. 1. The "Trust" Factor with VA Loans If you bought your home with a VA-backed loan, you can generally transfer it into a Living Trust without triggering a "due-on-sale" clause, provided it remains your primary residence. This allows your family to avoid probate—the long, expensive court process of proving ownership after you pass. 2. Protect Your Tax Exemptions Illinois offers significant property tax breaks for disabled veterans. However, these don't always "travel" automatically. If you move your home into a trust, ensure your attorney includes specific language that preserves your right to the homestead and veteran tax exemptions. Also, check if these exemptions are portable for a surviving spouse. 3. Update Your Beneficiaries A common mistake is updating a Will but forgetting the beneficiary forms on life insurance (VGLI) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Rule: A beneficiary form overrides a Will. If an old beneficiary is still listed on your policy, they will likely receive the payout regardless of what your Will says. 4. Secure Your DD214 In the military, if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen. Your family will need your DD214 to access almost every benefit, from burial honors to survivor pensions. Keep a digital and physical copy in a fireproof safe and ensure your executor knows the location. About the Author: Cathy Yanda is a USMC Veteran and a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner in Oak Park. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), she is dedicated to helping fellow veterans navigate the complexities of real estate and legacy planning.

Cook County

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River...

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many...

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized international curriculum combine the best of both worlds, giving our Preschool, Primary, Middle School and High School students a truly global outlook rooted in Chicago’s rich heritage.

Chicago

British International School of Chicago, South...

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized...

Discover Oak Park’s Hidden Gem – A living world of beauty

Oak Park Conservatory

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites. Free and open to the public, the Conservatory offers visitors a lush escape into nature with three distinct indoor showrooms — the Mediterranean Room, Tropical Room, and Desert Room — each showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Outside, the urban gardens continue the experience with native Illinois landscapes featured in the Elsie Jacobsen Discovery Garden and Rubinstein Garden. Sweeps of prairie grasses and native blooms welcome you at the entrance, inviting you to slow down and explore this hidden oasis in the heart of the village. Owned and operated by the Park District of Oak Park, the Conservatory provides year-round opportunities to connect with nature through programs, events, and community initiatives. Highlights include: • Seasonal Events: Enjoy festive gatherings throughout the year such as the Candlelight Walk, Shamrock Scavenger Hunt, and Halloween Fright at Night. • Plant &amp; Garden Markets: Shop a variety of seasonal plant sales, including the Winter Seed Sale, Valentine’s Market, Spring Plant Sale, Perennial Pollinator Sale, Succulent &amp; Cacti Sale, Fall Mum &amp; Bulb Sale, and Winter Greens Market. • Private Event Rentals: Celebrate life’s milestones surrounded by natural beauty. The Conservatory is available for weddings, showers, graduations, birthday parties, memorial services, and other special occasions. • Educational Programs: Participate in a variety of hands-on programs for all ages — from adult gardening workshops to free early childhood nature programs that inspire young explorers. Whether you’re a lifelong plant lover or simply seeking a moment of calm, the Oak Park Conservatory offers a space to reconnect with nature, beauty, and community — right in your own backyard.

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites....

We at Keepers of Wisdom Productions are video biographers who specialize in "capturing and preserving" your life story.We do this by conducting one-on-one interviews with you.  Let us help you capture and preserve your story today.To learn more or to schedule an appointment call us at 708.494.0127 Like us on Facebook or visit our website ~<a href="http://www.keepersofwisdom.com/keepersofwisdom.com/Welcome.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.keepersofwisdom.com/keepersofwisdom.com/Welcome.html</a>

We at Keepers of Wisdom Productions are video biographers who specialize in "capturing and preserving" your life story.

We do this by conducting one-on-one interviews with you.  Let us help you capture and preserve your story today.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment call us at 708.494.0127 Like us on Facebook or visit our website ~<a href="http://www.keepersofwisdom.com/keepersofwisdom.com/Welcome.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.keepersofwisdom.com/keepersofwisdom.com/Welcome.html</a>

Forest Park

Keepers of Wisdom Productions

Community Corner

West Side

David Giuliani

La Grange

Western Springs

DuPage County

Elmhurst

Oak Brook

Bucktown-Wicker Park

Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills

North Center-Roscoe Village

Lincoln Park

Join us this Sun, May 3rd (11am-5pm) to shop small, local &amp; sustainable with 115+ talented artisans at our flagship Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market&nbsp;at historic Morgan MFG&nbsp;(401 N. Morgan St., Chicago). Get tix in advance &amp; save: <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">ChicagoArtisanMarket.com/tickets</a>
This Sun, May 3rd is 1 week before Mother's Day -- so pick-up thoughtful gifts for Moms, Dads, Grads and Housewarmings. (Tip: Bring friends &amp; family with our 4 for $20 ticket option - in advance online.)
Locally owned &amp; operated, this curated INDOOR Sunday market celebrates the ingenuity of independently owned, small businesses who channel their passions into creating one-of-a-kind designs, home goods, art and food.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Get tickets at <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://ChicagoArtisanMarket.com/tickets</a>
EVENT DETAILS:
* Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
* Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
* Venue: Morgan MFG – 401 N. Morgan St., Chicago, IL 60642
* Cost: $8 General Admission ($10 at door) | 4 for $20 for groups (online in advance) | Deluxe CAM Tote + Gen Adm $10
Kids &lt;12 are free | Dog-friendly (leashed, well-behaved only)
TICKETS: <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets-fulton-market" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets</a>
MARKET HIGHLIGHTS:
* 115+ Chicago/Midwest artisans per market in food, fashion, home goods, &amp; art at each market.
* We offer bistro seating, plated food &amp; a fully stocked bar selling cocktails, wine &amp; beer so you can relax &amp; re-connect with friends, family &amp; co-workers.
* Food:&nbsp; Shop gourmet food items including pastries and confections, chocolate &amp; candy, sauces &amp; spices, healthy snacks, cocktail mixers, beverages, &amp; more.
* Fashion: Meet &amp; shop top clothing, jewelry, handbag, accessories designers
* Home Goods: Discover items showcasing smart design in home decor, bath &amp; body, natural skincare &amp; more.
* Decorative Art: Meet independent artists producing functional, decorative &amp; wearable art.
“Keep your friends close, and your supply chain closer." – Chicago Artisan Market
Gather &amp; re-connect with friends &amp; family , while shopping small, local, safe &amp; sustainable. <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Get tickets now</a>.
Can't make it to Fulton Market this Sunday? The Chicago Artisan Market will also be back at Morgan MFG on Sun, Jul 12th. &nbsp;We're also in <a href="https://napervilleartisanmarket.com/rsvp" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Naperville</a>, <a href="https://northshoreartisanmarket.com/rsvp-winnetka" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Winnetka</a>, <a href="https://oakbrookartisanmarket.com/rsvp" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Oak Brook</a> &amp;&nbsp;<a href="https://northshoreartisanmarket.com/rsvp-northbrook" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Northbrook</a> OUTDOORS in May &amp;&nbsp;June.&nbsp;<a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/calendar" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">View our full 2026 Market Calendar</a>
About Us: We are a Chicago company based in Oak Brook, IL that has been showcasing independent artisans and small businesses for 20+ years. We operate two City markets in the vibrant <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets-fulton-market" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Fulton Market</a> and <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/tickets-ravenswood" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Ravenswood</a> neighborhoods. We also operate the <a href="https://oakbrookartisanmarket.com/rsvp" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Oak Brook Artisan Market</a> in Oak Brook, IL, the <a href="https://napervilleartisanmarket.com/RSVP" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Naperville Artisan Market</a> at CityGate Centre in Naperville, IL, and the <a href="https://northshoreartisanmarket.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">North Shore Artisan Market</a> in downtown Winnetka, IL and downtown Northbrook, IL.
Are you a talented Midwest artisan looking to vend in the greater Chicago area? Learn more at <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/vendors" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://ChicagoArtisanMarket.c...</a> or apply now at <a href="https://chicagoartisanmarket.com/apply" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://ChicagoArtisanMarket.c...</a>. (Vendors - we don't charge junk fees just to fill out application online.)
<button>Share</button>

Local Event: Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market - Sun, May 3rd (Spring Market)

Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market - Sun,...

Join us this Sun, May 3rd (11am-5pm) to shop small, local & sustainable with 115+ talented artisans at our flagship Chicago...

Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market - Sun, May 3rd (Spring Market)

Lyons Township High School South Campus

Hitchcock meets HILARITY!
6 actors. 130 characters. 100 minutes of MAYHEM.
On-stage plane crashes ✈️ 
Train &amp; car chases 🚂 
Lightning-fast costume changes 🎭 
Monty Python-style humor 😂
Perfect for families, teens, and anyone who loves to laugh.

SHOW TIMES: 
Thurs May 7 – 7 PM 
Fri May 8 – 7 PM 
Sat May 9 – 2 PM &amp; 7 PM
LOCATION: 
LT South Campus PAC 
4900 Willow Springs Rd 
Western Springs, Illinois 60558

Tickets: $5–$15 
<a href="https://www.lattetheater.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.lattetheater.com</a> 
708-655-0989

Support local kids in theater and enjoy a fun night out!

Local Event: LATTE Theater presents: THE 39 STEPS

LATTE Theater presents: THE 39 STEPS

Hitchcock meets HILARITY!
6 actors. 130 characters. 100 minutes of MAYHEM.
On-stage plane crashes ✈️ 
Train & car chases 🚂...

Are you ready for what AI&nbsp;is changing in the workplace?While artificial intelligence is transforming how work gets done, many organizations are discovering that the biggest challenges aren't technical—they're human. Judgment, trust, accountability, and decision-making are now more critical than ever.&nbsp;Join us for a free, interactive webinar, <a href="https://grad.depaul.edu/register/?id=35307656-9eb0-44ac-b08e-8224ce29e40b&amp;utm_source=Patch&amp;utm_medium=desc_link&amp;utm_campaign=may_webinar" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Human Fluency in an AI World</a>, presented by Stephen Carman, PhD, and explore what it truly takes to succeed in an AI-enabled workplace.

Local Event: Human Fluency in an AI World

Human Fluency in an AI World

Are you ready for what AI is changing in the workplace?While artificial intelligence is transforming how work gets done, many...

🌱 Patch AM: Berwyn Public Library's 5th Annual...

Also, don’t miss Chicago Artisan Market in Fulton Market - Sun, May 3rd (Spring Market) on the Forest Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Berwyn Public Library's 5th Annual Local Authors' Fair and 12 more events

🌱 Patch AM: Will Forest Park tighten rules on...

Also check out Free Comic Book Day  on the Forest Park Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Will Forest Park tighten rules on Airbnbs after one problem property?

Across Illinois

Relative Interrupts Attempted Murders | Woman...

Plus: Perfect ACT score, inmate fight, Lysol attack, Bill Murray visits "City of Champions."

Relative Interrupts Attempted Murders | Woman Who Dismembered Landlord Wants New Trial: IL News

Across America

Popular Chocolate Recalled For Salmonella:...

A common item in your lunch tote may be among more than 8 million recalled for safety concerns; cuddly teddy bears pose an injury hazard.

Popular Chocolate Recalled For Salmonella: Recall Roundup

Health & Fitness

Stars And Sluggers, Kindergarten Collab: Good...

Need a little pickmeup? Look no further than these good news articles from throughout Illinois. 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Community Corner

Keepers of Wisdom Productions

Thomas Lydon, Neighbor

Find out what's happening in Forest Parkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.