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Tax Benefits | Any Alabama residents is exempt from ad valorem taxes on their home and adjacent 160 acres of land if they are permanently and totally disabled OR 65 years of age or older. Any veteran who has a home that was acquired under the VA’s specially adapted housing grant is tax exempt if it is owned and occupied by the veteran or their surviving spouse. Any disabled veteran with at least 25% disability may be exempt from business or occupational license taxes. Any disabled veteran who owns a vehicle which was paid for by the VA will pay no license fees or ad valorem taxes on it. |
Employment Benefits | Alabama offers state employment hiring preference to eligible Alabama veterans, Alabama disabled veterans, spouses, and surviving spouses. |
Education Benefits | ANGEAP provides financial educational assistance to Alabama National Guard members attending college at an Alabama State-Supported School. The current award amount per semester is $5,464 or $4,098 per quarter. ANGEAP will cover tuition and fees that are not covered by any VA education benefits. |
Recreation Benefits | Veterans are granted reduced rates on hunting and fishing licenses as well as free admission to all Alabama state parks. |
Tax Benefits | Veterans who have a VA or military disability of 50% or more are exempt from taxes on the first $150,000 of assessed value of their home. |
Employment Benefits | Alaskan law offers 10- and 5-point preferences to all who qualify. A veteran or national guard member may be eligible for 5 points added to any state employment examination score when applying for a state government job if they meet all other qualifications. A disabled veteran or former POW is eligible for 10-point preference.
A taxpayer who hires a veteran and employs the veteran in the state is entitled to a tax credit. |
Education Benefits | In-state tuition rates are available at any University of Alaska System school for active-duty military personnel or members of the National Guard, or their spouses or dependent children. All universities and local community colleges in Alaska use the recommendations made by the American Council on Education to award academic credit toward a degree for education and training received in the military. |
Recreation Benefits | Resident hunting and sport fishing licenses are available at no charge to honorably discharged veterans with a 50 percent or more service-connected disability who are Alaska residents. |
Tax Benefits | Active-duty pay is considered tax-free. Federal (Civil Service or Military Retirement) payments (including SBP) of up to $3,500.00 per year are tax-free. License tax and registration fees are waived for 100% Disabled Veterans for one personally owned vehicle. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans who pass an examination for employment by the state, county or city will have 5 points added to their certification score. Veterans entitled to compensation for a service-connected disability will have 10 points added to their certification score. Spouses or surviving spouses (of a member of the United States Armed Forces serving no less than 90 days on active duty) may be given a 5-point preference if the veteran: Died of a service-connected disability Is missing in action Was captured, forcibly detained, or interned by a foreign power Has total and permanent service-connected disability or died while such disability was in existence Wartime Veterans have a preference in employment with state agencies or offices, as do widows and children of those killed on active duty. State agencies must practice veterans’ preference until they have reached 40% Veteran employment. |
Education Benefits | Eligible veterans and dependents can be granted immediate residency, thereby receiving in-state tuition rates. Arizona veterans and their dependents may apply for a deferment of payment of tuition, fees and required books and materials for a period of up to 120 days while awaiting federal education benefits. Tuition waivers for Arizona Public Universities are also available to some veterans and dependents who are residents of the state or stationed in-state. Honorably discharged veterans who were unable to complete their high school education due to of service in the Armed Forces during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War may apply for an honorary diploma via the Arizona Honorary Diploma program. Post-9/11 veterans who have at least a 50% VA disability and have received a Purple Heart award may receive a tuition-free education at any public state university or community college. Dependent children under 30, un-remarried spouses of AZ military members killed in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, and post-9/11 AZ guard members who received a Purple Heart may also be eligible. |
Tax Benefits | Property tax exemptions are available to widows, widowers, and disabled individuals. The disabled veteran may be eligible for a property tax exemption of up to $3,000 on their primary residence if their total assessment is under $10,000. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans that pass an employment examination will receive 5 additional points on their certification score. Veterans receiving VA benefits will receive 10 additional points on their certification score. The Veteran Tool Kit Program was created to help unemployed veterans get the supplies they need to start working. |
Education Benefits | The tuition waiver program provides eligible veterans or surviving dependents with tuition-free education at any public state university or community college. |
Recreation Benefits | 100% service-connected disabled veterans who have been a resident of the state of Arizona for at least 12 months are eligible for a hunting/fishing combo license at no cost to them. |
Tax Benefits | California provides a $4,000 real property (e.g., a home) or personal property (e.g., a boat) exemption for honorably discharged veterans or the spouse or pensioned-parent of a deceased, honorably discharged veteran. However, a person who owns property valued at $5,000 or more ($10,000 or more for a married couple or for the unmarried surviving spouse of a qualified veteran) is not eligible for this exemption. California gives a property tax exemption: There is a basic $100,000 exemption or a low-income (less than $58,754) $150,000 exemption available to a disabled veteran who, is blind in both eyes, has lost the use of two or more limbs, or is rated totally disabled by the VA or military. |
Employment Benefits | Honorably discharged veterans and their spouses; or surviving spouses of 100% disabled veterans are automatically ranked at the top of the eligibility list when they pass a test for state employment. |
Education Benefits | All universities and local community colleges in California use the recommendations made by the American Council on Education to award academic credit toward a degree for education and training received in the military. There are tuition waiver program for dependents of veterans and a Non-Resident College Fee Waiver. |
Recreation Benefits | Any veteran with a 50% or greater service-connected disability may be eligible for reduced annual fees for fishing and hunting licenses. Veterans do not have to be a California resident for this benefit. |
Tax Benefits | There is a Property Tax Exemption for 50% of the first $200,000 of a home’s value for 100% permanently and totally disabled service-connected veterans. If you are receiving 100% disability solely as a result of an individual unemployability rating you do not qualify |
Employment Benefits | Colorado gives veterans’ preference in the form of extra points added to the state employment examination. Eligibility requirements are as follows: Five-point preference for: Honorably separated active-duty veterans who served during a time of war or in receipt of a campaign medal. The spouse of a veteran unable to work because of a service-connected disability The widow/widower of a deceased veteran who was or would have been entitled to veterans’ preference. Ten point preference for: Honorably separated veterans who are receiving VA disability or pension. |
Education Benefits | Any member of the Colorado National Guard is eligible for state tuition assistance, up to 100% tuition paid at any CO state-funded school depending on funding available. |
Recreation Benefits | For Colorado residents who are also disabled veterans, the CPW offers a Free Lifetime VA Combo License. |
Tax Benefits | Veterans who have ninety days of wartime service, including Merchant Marines who served during WWII, are eligible for a $1,500 exemption for property tax purposes (e.g., real property or automobiles). In Connecticut, Active-duty pay is tax-free if stationed out-of-state, provided you own a home in Connecticut or live there for more than 30 days per year. Military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are also tax-free. |
Employment Benefits | Military members or veterans within one year of separation who operated military vehicles that would require a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) in the civilian world, can skip the skills test portion of a CDL exam. Some veterans are eligible for sales and use tax exemptions for property used exclusively in commercial agricultural production. The waiver includes veterans who never engaged in the practice of farming or have farmed for less than two years. |
Education Benefits | Tuition and fees at State Regional Community & Technical Colleges as well as State Universities may be waived for CT resident veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty during a period of war. A veteran’s dependents can also qualify for the tuition waiver if the veteran is declared missing in action while serving in the armed forces after Jan. 1, 1960. Connecticut State Colleges & Universities proudly welcome military students who have served and/or are currently serving our country. It is possible that military service – training, coursework or occupation – can earn the equivalent of college credit towards a degree program. |
Recreation Benefits | Connecticut offers a free lifetime pass to all state parks and forests for Connecticut residents with a service-connected disability. |
Tax Benefits | Up to $2,000 of military retirement and SBP (Survivor Benefit Plan) payments are tax-free if under age 60. For those 60 or older, the amount is $12,500. Qualified persons may be eligible for a tax credit against 100% of non-vocational school district property tax. A special license plate is available to those veterans who are eligible for both the Disabled American Veteran designation and the universally-recognized symbol for those requiring special parking accommodations. |
Employment Benefits | When applying for state jobs, an additional ten points are given to disabled veterans and five points given to all other eligible veterans. Military spouses relocating to Delaware are given a six-month temporary occupational license. The temporary license will allow the spouse to obtain employment in their discipline, pending application for endorsement or reciprocity. |
Education Benefits | Children of military members who was killed while on active duty or who died from disease, wounds, injuries or disabilities arising or resulting from performance of duty as well as children of POW/MIA members are eligible for up to four years of free college. The college need not be in the state of Delaware. |
Recreation Benefits | Delaware offers a reduced cost annual pass by 50% for military members who are permanent residents of the State of Delaware. Veterans with a VA disability rating of 60% can get a free hunting and fishing license. Veterans with at least a 60% service-connected disability rating are eligible for a veteran license exemption. |
Tax Benefits | Resident veterans with VA disability of at least 10% can get a $5,000 deduction on their home’s assessed value. The unremarried surviving spouse who had been married to the veteran for at least 5 years may also entitled to this exemption. Florida resident veterans with an honorable discharge and are 100% permanently and totally disabled as well as quadriplegic veterans are exempt from paying property tax on their residence. Drivers License and ID Card: Veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability are eligible for a no fee driver license, with endorsements, or an identification card. |
Employment Benefits | Florida state, county, and municipal governments give disabled veterans with an honorable discharge, wartime veterans, spouses and surviving spouses of totally disabled veterans preference in hiring for government jobs. |
Education Benefits | Florida provides four-year college educational opportunities for dependent children and spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected disability or who are 100% percent service-connected totally and permanently disabled veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. |
Recreation Benefits | 25% discount for annual pass to all state parks for all honorably discharged veterans. Veterans with a service-connected disability can receive a free military entrance pass, good for admission to all Florida State Parks. This lifetime pass is valid for park admission of up to eight people, at most locations. |
Tax Benefits | Any qualifying disabled veteran may be granted an exemption of $50,000 plus an additional sum from paying property taxes for county, municipal, and school purposes. No ad valorem tax on vehicles for permanently and totally disabled veterans or those getting VA disability for loss of vision or limbs. A disabled veteran who receives a VA grant for the purchase and special adapting of a vehicle is exempt from paying the state sales tax on the vehicle (only on the original grant). Georgia offers multiple Veteran’s License Plates with no Registration fee, manufacturing fee, or annual fee. |
Employment Benefits | A 5-point credit is given to war veterans seeking state employment. A 10-point credit is given to those with a VA service-connected disability of 10% or more. Georgia veterans are eligible for a certificate granting exemption from any occupation tax, administrative fee, or regulatory fee imposed by local governments for peddling, conducting a business, or practicing a profession or semi-profession for a period of ten years. This applies to veterans with a VA disability of at least 10% and an honorable discharge. |
Education Benefits | Georgia veteran benefits include in-state tuition rates. In-state tuition rates are offered at any University System of Georgia school for active-duty military personnel stationed in Georgia or members of the National Guard or their spouses or dependent children. |
Recreation Benefits | Veterans rated permanently and totally disabled by the VA or DOD are eligible for a discounted sportsman’s license. Discounted disability hunting and fishing licenses are available to residents of Georgia. |
Tax Benefits | Payment by the state of up to $5,000 to each qualified, totally disabled veteran for the purpose of purchasing or remodeling a home to improve handicapped accessibility. Retired pay and SBP (Survivor Benefit Plan) payments are tax-free. Hawaii National Guard and Reserve drill pay are tax-free. Up to the amount that an E-5 with eight years of service receives for forty-eight drills (equivalent of twelve weekends) and fifteen days of annual training duty is exempt. Real property owned and occupied as a home by a totally disabled veteran or their surviving spouse may be exempt from all property taxes on their primary residence. Permanently disabled veterans can get a $45.00 discount on the state registration fee. To be eligible, you must have a service-connected 100% VA disability rating, be a Hawaii resident and have an other than dishonorable discharge. |
Employment Benefits | Non-disabled veterans receive 5 preference points, disabled veterans receive 10 points. Preference points are added to examination scores completed by applicants for open competitive state employment positions. |
Education Benefits | The Hawaii Army National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP) offers tuition waivers for eligible National Guard members who have completed Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training. The waiver covers 100% of your tuition if you are a community college student, and 50% of your tuition if you are a four-year university student. |
Recreation Benefits | Active-duty military personnel and their dependents stationed in Hawaii are considered to be residents for the purposes of obtaining a hunting license. |
Tax Benefits | Military pay is tax free if stationed out-of-state. Military retirement and SBP payments are tax-free for those over 65 or disabled and over 62, as well as their unremarried surviving spouses. Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability, or those rated unemployable by the VA may reduce the property on their home and up to one acre of land by as much as $1,500. The program doesn’t have an income limit. Property Tax Reduction – This program reduces the amount of taxes qualified individuals pay on their home and up to one acre of land. Benefits range from $250 to $1,500. There’s an income limit for this program. Property Tax Deferral – This program defers the taxes on the home and up to one acre of land for qualified individuals. The deferred taxes become a lien on the property and have to be repaid to the state of Idaho. There’s an income limit for this program. |
Employment Benefits | Idaho offers military members and their families expedited processing for occupational licenses. They also accept credit for military training that is relevant to the occupational license/registration being applied for. |
Education Benefits | Operation Education is a leading scholarship and assistance program offered through the University of Idaho. This scholarship is available to military personnel who sustained permanent disability while serving our nation since September 11, 2001. Spouses of qualifying veterans are also eligible for the scholarship. |
Recreation Benefits | Idaho Veterans with a service-connected disability, rated at 100% permanent and total, receive free day-use access and one free campsite per stay within Idaho State Parks. Day Use: Waives the Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee for one personal vehicle. Camping: Waives fees for one campsite per eligible veteran. Campers are responsible for associated reservation fees. 15-day stay limit on a campsite. |
Tax Benefits | Active duty, national guard, reserve, retired pay and SBP (Survivors Benefit Plan) payments are tax-free. Illinois offers many different bonus programs for veterans with varying eligibility: World War II Bonus Payment, Korean, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, and Global War on Terrorism (OIF, OEF) Bonus, Vietnam Veteran Survivors Compensation, POW Compensation Tax Exemptions: Up to a $100,000 reduction in the property’s value for taxation purposes is available for homes that were purchased or modified with the Specially Adapted Housing Grant for as long as the veteran, spouse, or surviving spouse (if not remarried) live there. The Disabled Veterans’ Standard Homestead Exemption reduces the property tax of the home of a veteran with a service-connected disability, depending upon the degree of disability: 30%-40% = $2,500 exemption 50%-60% = $5,000 exemption 70% or higher = full exemption for primary residence. |
Employment Benefits | Honorably discharged veterans who served during wartime get preference in state job hiring. The educational requirements needed to join the Illinois State Police will be waived for veterans who have been honorably discharged with a campaign service medal for Afghanistan or Iraq. Licenses & Credentials testing and fees for EMT, CNA, EMR, and CDL may be waived if you have military experience in that job. |
Education Benefits | The Illinois National Guard (ING) Grant pays tuition and eligible fees (registration, graduation, general activity, matriculation and term fees) at all Illinois public universities or public community colleges. Each county in the state shall be entitled, annually, to up to 3 tuition waivers at the University of Illinois, for the benefit of children of veterans of WWI, WWII, Korean War, the Vietnam Conflict and any time on or after August 2, 1990 and until those persons in service are no longer eligible for the Southwest Asia Service Medal. Veterans and service members can enter college with earned course credits, useful credits that apply toward meeting degree requirements, simply by documenting their already-completed military training. |
Recreation Benefits | Illinois veterans are exempt from admission and camping fees at Illinois state parks. Fishing and hunting licenses are not required for disabled veterans receiving 10% or greater service-connected compensation, or total disability pension benefits. Veterans who served abroad may be eligible for half-price licenses. Honorably discharged veterans of all ages and their families shall be admitted FREE, when they properly identify themselves, on Veterans’ Day at the fair. Veterans Day includes a day-long program of drum corps, drill teams, and color guard competition. Admission is FREE to people 60 and older on Senior Day. |
Tax Benefits | Up to $5,000 of active-duty pay is tax-free. Up to $6,250 plus 25% of retired pay and SBP payments are tax-free in 2019. That will increase to 50% in 2020, 75% in 2021 and 100% for tax years after 2021. A $24,960 dollar deduction is available to wartime veterans who have at least a 10% VA disability. Up to a $14,000 deduction is available to veterans who are at least 62 with at least a 10% VA disability OR have a VA total disability. This deduction is only available if the assessed value of the property owned by the veteran is less than $200,000. Veterans who served during wartime and are at least 62 years old with a 10% service-connected disability rating OR have a permanent and total service-connected disability rating at any age AND whose home’s assessed value is $200,000 or less, can receive both property tax deductions for a total of $38,960. |
Employment Benefits | Indiana offers veterans preference in state government jobs for honorably discharged veterans. The BMV may waive the required drive skills test for veterans with specific training and were truck drivers during their military service when they apply for an Indiana Commercial Driver’s License. Honorably discharged veterans may receive a vending license for free. The state will help you apply for a job with dozens of corporations, and if hired will pay you $5,000 to relocate to Indiana. |
Education Benefits | Indiana offers free or discounted tuition at state schools to children of disabled veterans, Purple Heart Recipients and their children, and children of former POW/MIA. |
Recreation Benefits | A Hoosier Golden Passport provides unlimited admission to all Indiana State owned parks, recreation areas, reservoirs, and forests on an annual basis. It is NOT valid for historic sites, museums, memorials, and other Department of Natural Resource (DNR) facilities. The pass is good for one calendar year. The license sells for $2.75 and covers the hunting of small game as well as fishing, excluding any stamps. Or veterans can buy a 10-year DAV license for $27.50. This covers the same as above for a total of 10 hunting/fishing seasons. |
Tax Benefits | Active duty, retired pay and SBP (Survivor Benefit Plan) payments are tax-free. This legislation, from the year 2014, exempts federal retirement pay received for military service and survivor benefits from state individual income tax. This benefit reduces a veteran’s assessed home value for property tax purposes by $1,852. In order to qualify, a service member must have served on active duty during a period of war or for a minimum of 18 months during peacetime. Iowa disabled veteran benefits encourage homeownership by providing 100% exemption of property taxes for 100%-disabled (service-connected) veterans and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) recipients. The current credit is equal to 100% of the actual tax levy. |
Employment Benefits | Honorably discharged veterans get five percentage points added to their grade or score attained in qualifying examinations for jobs with the state, public works, counties, cities, and schools. An additional five points are added to the grade or score for veterans getting VA disability or pension. |
Education Benefits | Children of Iowa veterans killed in action following Sep. 11, 2001 are eligible for up to $11,844.00 per year in tuition assistance at an Iowa post-secondary institution. Children qualify up to the age of 26. Dependents of those killed in action prior to Sep. 11, 2001 are eligible for $600 per year with a maximum of $3,000. Iowa National Guard members in good standing are eligible for up to $4,637 per semester for full time enrollment. Part-time students are eligible for $196 per semester hour. Additionally, Guard members who are mobilized will receive a tuition refund. The Branstad-Reynolds Scholarship fund provides post-secondary educational scholarships for children of deceased military service members who died while in an active military status after September 11, 2001. |
Recreation Benefits | Veterans in receipt of at least a 0% service-connected disability can receive a lifetime hunting or fishing license for a $7.00 fee. In order to qualify, the Iowa resident must have served on active federal service and was disabled as a result of that service |
Tax Benefits | Military retired pay that is included in federal adjusted gross income is not taxed in Kansas. Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. The Kansas Department of Revenue offers a Homestead Refund for Disabled Veterans, their Surviving Spouse and the Surviving Spouse of a Service member killed in the line of duty. |
Employment Benefits | Any veteran with a campaign medal, a service-connected disability, retired as an O-3 or below, or the spouse of a 100% disabled veteran can get veterans preference for a state job. Veterans’ preference guarantees an interview and to consideration for the position. |
Education Benefits | Kansas colleges offer service members and veterans college credit for education, training, and skills acquired while in the military. The tuition at state universities, community colleges, or vocational technical colleges is free for dependents of Kansas residents who are killed in the line of duty while on active duty or in the Kansas National Guard. The Kansas Military Service Scholarship is available for the payment of tuition and fees at a public Kansas institution for resident veterans that meet the eligibility requirements. The Kansas Hero’s Scholarship Act is a waiver which allows eligible dependents and spouses of certain deceased or disabled military servicemembers to attend a public Kansas postsecondary educational institution without payment of tuition and required fees. |
Recreation Benefits | National Guard Members and 30% or greater disabled Kansas resident veterans can get free hunting and fishing licenses. Kansas residents age 65 or older or persons with disabilities who display a state issued special license plate or placard can buy a special park vehicle permit directly from a KDWP office or vendor. Veterans can receive free copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates and death certificates when they will be used for VA purposes. |
Tax Benefits | Military income is tax-free. Military retirement pay is tax-exempt up to $31,110. If receiving more than $31,110, only the portion above that amount may be taxed. Totally disabled veterans are eligible for up to a $40,500 deduction on the assessed value of their home for property tax purposes. The value of the homestead exemption for the 2019-2020 assessment years is $39,300. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans with an other-than-dishonorable discharge can get 5 points added to their test score for a state job. Disabled veterans can get 10 points. KY Works is a regional job portal, built and maintained by Kwantek, which makes searching for career opportunities and/or searching for qualified candidates easier than ever. My Next Move is an interactive tool for job seekers and students to learn more about their career options. My Next Move has tasks, skills, salary information, and more for over 900 different careers. |
Education Benefits | Most Kentucky colleges and universities have special programs and staff to help veterans get financial assistance and other help in making the transition back to school. A tuition waiver is provided for children, stepchildren, adopted children, spouses, and unremarried surviving spouses of KY veterans who died on active duty, as a result of service-connected injuries, or is VA rated totally disabled. |
Recreation Benefits | Kentucky veterans with 50% of more service-connected disability are authorized a discounted license. The license includes the same licenses and permits as the Resident Sportsman’s License, plus additional deer permits. Kentucky residents home on leave can fish for free without a license. |
Tax Benefits | Up to $50,000 active-duty pay is tax-free if stationed out-of-state for 120 consecutive days or more. Retired pay and SBP payments are tax-free. The Louisiana Homestead Tax exemption equals $7,500 of a homestead’s assessed value ($75,000 of market value) and can be claimed for up to 160 acres as long as the home is an owner-occupied property. Exempts from ad valorem tax, property receiving the homestead exemption which is owned and occupied by a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 100%. |
Employment Benefits | Louisiana state and city civil service departments award a 5-point preference to honorably discharged veterans and 10 point preference to honorably discharged service connected disabled veterans. Spouses of veterans who are rated VA unemployable as well as un-remarried widows of deceased veterans and Gold Star parents are also eligible for this preference. |
Education Benefits | Louisiana Title 29 Dependents Educational Assistance provides educational assistance to surviving spouses of deceased or disabled war veterans. The benefit also includes children of veterans with at least a 90% service-disabled rating and children of war veterans who have a 100% disability rating due to individual un-employability. Eligible students will receive a Fee Exemption Certificate from the Louisiana Department of Veteran Affairs. |
Recreation Benefits | Disabled veterans classified with a service-connected permanent disability, rated 50% or higher and who are Louisiana residents can get hunting and fishing licenses free of charge. Disabled veterans, as well as everyone in the same vehicle as them, are exempt from paying the day-use entrance fee to any Louisiana state park. |
Tax Benefits | Veterans, their unremarried surviving spouses, and minor children who own and occupy their property may be eligible for a $6,000 property tax exemption in Maine. Veterans are not taxed on military retirement pay. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans and disabled veterans receive preference when applying for federal, state, county, and local government jobs in Maine. Maine offers interview preference to veterans and gold star spouses. Maine provides specialized employment and training services at Maine CareerCenters throughout the state for veterans and spouses. |
Education Benefits | Maine has offered in-state tuition at all University of Maine System schools to all current and former military members with an honorable discharge, regardless of whether or not they’re receiving federal GI Bill benefits. Maine’s public university system uses the Prior Learning Assessment system to award college credit for military training. Maine offers a 100 percent tuition waiver for Maine’s National Guard members to attend all of the schools in the University of Maine and Maine Community College Systems. |
Recreation Benefits | Maine veteran benefits include free access to state parks for state residents. Veterans who are residents of Maine with a 100 percent disabled disability rating are exempt from reservation and camping fees for family camping. Spouses and children are also exempt. |
Tax Benefits | Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to service-connected disabilities are exempt from paying property tax on their primary residence. Maryland disabled veteran benefits also include county-specific additions to property tax exemptions. These exemptions may be slightly different from the State of Maryland tax exemption. If you are 65 or older, totally disabled, or your spouse is totally disabled, you may qualify for Maryland’s current calendar year maximum pension exclusion. This amount is determined in Instruction 13 of the Maryland resident tax booklet. |
Employment Benefits | The appointing authority for skilled and professional appointments will award a credit of 10 points on any selection test to an eligible veteran, the spouse of an eligible veteran who has a service-connected disability, or the surviving spouse of a deceased eligible veteran. |
Education Benefits | Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship program awards educational scholarships to the children or surviving spouse of various military employees and state or local employees who died or were disabled because of military service or while in the line of duty. The scholarship will be offered to no more than 15 recipients annually for veterans who suffered a service-connected disability of 25 percent or greater and have exhausted or are no longer eligible for federal veterans’ educational benefits. |
Recreation Benefits | A free lifetime hunting license is available to Maryland residents certified as a former POWs as well as to 100% service-connected disabled veterans. The lifetime license includes the bow stamp, muzzleloader stamp, and furbearer permit. The Maryland Migratory Game Bird Stamp is not part of the Complimentary License. A free lifetime fishing license is available to Maryland residents certified as former POWs or 100% service-connected disabled veterans. |
Tax Benefits | Massachusetts veteran benefits feature property tax exemptions ranging from $400 to $1,500. Massachusetts disabled veterans who have paraplegia or have a 100% disability for service-connected blindness, as well as their spouses or surviving spouses, are entitled to the full $1,500 exemption. Massachusetts disabled veteran benefits include a motor vehicle excise tax exemption; the same benefit is available to former prisoners of war (and extends to surviving spouses). Massachusetts does not tax retired military pay. Massachusetts veteran benefits include a one-time bonus for wartime veterans and their families. Bonus payments range from $200 to $1,000, based on operation and length of service. Massachusetts veterans with a 100% VA disability rating may be eligible for a $2,000 annuity. |
Employment Benefits | Massachusetts is committed to helping veterans find gainful employment, and assisting with transitions and career advancement. The MassHire Department of Career Services provides employment and training services to veterans and their families. The Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program (VWIP) grant is a federal grant program that in Massachusetts created The Green TEAM (Training and Employment Access for Massachusetts) veterans’ initiative. This program assists eligible Massachusetts veterans who live in the Boston Metropolitan area with “green job” training, certification and licensure, and employment opportunities. |
Education Benefits | The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers a tuition waiver to all veterans and active duty service members who are permanent and legal residents of Massachusetts. The waiver can be used at any state or community college or university. Massachusetts veteran benefits include the UMass Boston Veterans Upward Bound Program and the Suffolk University Veterans Upward Bound Program. These are free pre-college programs for veterans to gain college and career awareness and the academic skills required for higher education. |
Recreation Benefits | Massachusetts disabled veteran benefits include a free freshwater fishing license and a free hunting license. |
Tax Benefits | 100% disabled veterans (and those rated 100% due to individual unemployability) may be exempt from paying taxes on their home. The veteran must have an other-than-dishonorable discharge and be a Michigan resident. The intent of the Emergency Grant Program is to assist veterans in a financial emergency. When short-term financial hardships occur, the grant can provide the needed funds. Applicants are expected to make the necessary steps to meet their future financial needs. |
Employment Benefits | Michigan veterans and their spouses receive hiring preferences for state employment/Michigan civil service positions. Michigan disabled veterans receive further considerations for hiring. If the selection process involves a numerical score on a written civil service examination, points are added to the veteran applicant’s final passing score: 5 points for a Michigan veteran (or surviving spouse). 10 points for a Michigan disabled veteran, spouse of a Michigan veteran with more than 50% VA disability, a surviving spouse who has a child younger than 18, or a surviving spouse with continuing parental care of a disabled child. |
Education Benefits | The Children of Veterans Tuition Grant provides undergraduate tuition assistance to students older than 16 and less than 26 years of age who are the natural or adopted child of a Michigan veteran. |
Recreation Benefits | 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans get free entry into Michigan state parks. Disabled veterans can receive hunting and fishing licenses for free. |
Tax Benefits | Military pay, retirement pay and SBP (Survivor Benefit Plan) payments are tax-free. Veterans may qualify for past military service credit if their Minnesota adjusted gross income is less than $37,500. If you served in a qualifying combat zone (or hazardous duty area) and are a resident of Minnesota, you may qualify for a $120 tax credit for each month you served there. Veterans who are 100% P&T (including Individual Unemployability) can have the market value of their home (homestead) that is subject to property taxes reduced. |
Employment Benefits | MN Veterans Preference Act (VPA) grants veterans a limited preference over non-veterans in hiring and promotion for MN public employment and also provides protection against unfair dismissals and demotions. VPA grants veterans the right to a hearing, prior to dismissal. A disabled veteran can receive a 15-point preference for local government positions. Spouses of deceased Veterans or disabled Veterans who cannot qualify because of their disability, may also choose to receive extra points. |
Education Benefits | MDVA’s Higher Education Veterans Program provides staff at colleges and universities throughout Minnesota to help identify and remove barriers to Veterans’ enrollment and access to benefits, as well as to create and manage campus Veterans resource centers. The Minnesota GI Bill Program provides a maximum benefit of $10,000. Eligible participants can use the benefit in Higher Education, On-the-job training (OJT)/Apprenticeship or License and Certification. Part-time students can receive up to $500 per semester (up to $3,000 per academic year and $10,000 per lifetime). OJT and Apprenticeship individuals are eligible for up to $2,000 per fiscal year for either program. Approved employers are eligible to receive $1,000 placement credit payable upon hiring a person under this program and another $1,000 after 12 consecutive months of employment. |
Recreation Benefits | The hunting and fishing benefits to active-duty members and veterans are very generous, but specialized licenses such as bear, deer, waterfowl, etc. may require fees not listed here. Always check the current MN DNR regulations before hunting or fishing. Veterans with any level of service-related disability may obtain a free annual state park permit. |
Tax Benefits | Mississippi veteran benefits exempt retirement income, pensions, and annuities from Mississippi income tax if the recipient has met the retirement plan requirements. Military disability retirement pay received as a pension, annuity, or similar allowance (for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service) is not considered taxable income. The first $15,000 received by National Guard or reserve service members is excluded from taxable income. This includes pay for inactive duty training (monthly or special drills or meetings), active-duty training (summer camps, special schools, cruises), and state active duty (emergency duty). |
Employment Benefits | The Mississippi State Personnel Board grants qualified veterans five preference points over other applicants for initial or promotional appointments. Mississippi disabled veterans are given ten preference points. Mississippi veteran benefits are good for four retention points during state layoffs. Mississippi disabled veteran benefits offer veterans eight retention points over nonveteran employees. |
Education Benefits | Honorably discharged, nonresident veterans are eligible for in-state tuition when attending Mississippi institutions of higher learning. Mississippi veteran benefits grant in-state tuition rates to the spouse and children of a service member. Local school districts may award an honorary Mississippi high school diploma to veterans who were unable to finish high school due to military service. |
Recreation Benefits | Mississippi disabled veteran benefits are your ticket to free hunting and fishing licenses! Mississippi veterans with a 100% VA disability rating are eligible for hunting and fishing licenses free of charge. |
Tax Benefits | Military retirement & SBP(Survivors Benefit Plan) benefits are tax-free. The Missouri Department of Revenue has a Military Liaison to assist Service members and their Families with questions about Missouri income tax and other issues. The Missouri Property Tax Credit Claim gives credit to some 100% VA disabled veterans for a portion of the real estate taxes or rent paid for the year. The maximum credit is $750 for renters and $1,100 for homeowners. The actual credit is based on the amount of real estate taxes or rent paid and total household income (taxable and nontaxable). A 100% disabled Veteran is not required to include your veteran payments and benefits on the Property Tax Credit form. Missouri citizens who are Former POWs with a 100% P&T rating with the VA are exempt from paying all property taxes on property used as a homestead. |
Employment Benefits | Missouri Veterans get a five-point preference when testing for any state employment position, with a ten-point preference for a service-connected disabled veteran. Spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify. Active duty or retired military can get a waiver of the skills testing portion of a CDL. You must have a minimum of 60 days active duty driving experience in a commercial motor vehicle for the military within 2 years of applying for the waiver. |
Education Benefits | Certificates and Associates/ Bachelor’s Degrees- Tuition at any state college shall be no more than $50 per credit hour if completed within ten (10) years of the date of the combat veteran’s last discharge from service. Graduate Degrees- Tuition must be limited to no more than 30% of the cost of tuition and fees. |
Recreation Benefits | Certain honorably discharged military veterans may hunt small game or fish without a permit (Except for deer and turkey). |
Tax Benefits | Veterans with a 100 percent disability rating from the VA may be eligible for a property tax reduction on their home. The amount of the reduction depends on the federal adjusted gross income of the veteran. Montana service members are exempt from paying state income tax. |
Employment Benefits | Montana recognizes those who have served by offering employment preference to veterans and their family members when they apply for federal, state, county, and local government jobs in Montana. This also includes members of the Montana National Guard with at least six years of service. |
Education Benefits | Members of the military, their spouses, and children can take advantage of Montana veteran benefits for in-state tuition if they’re stationed in Montana, regardless of state residency. Veterans are eligible for transfer credit of military training and experience in Montana. Most universities and local community colleges in Montana use the recommendations made by the American Council on Education (ACE) to award academic credit toward a degree for education and training received in the military. Montana National Guard members may receive up to 100 percent tuition assistance at any Montana University system school, with up to full tuition paid at the in-state rate (typically around $7,500). |
Recreation Benefits | Disabled veterans and service members receive licenses at steeply discounted prices. |
Tax Benefits | Nebraska veteran benefits provide several tax advantages, including a homestead exemption program, income tax exemptions, and even a motor vehicle tax exemption. Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, you can exclude 100% of your military retirement benefit income from your federal adjusted gross income (taxable income for the year). Military disability retirement pay received as a pension, annuity, or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service is not included in taxable income. |
Employment Benefits | Nebraska’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program helps those with service-connected disabilities and an employment handicap prepare for, obtain, and keep suitable jobs. Nebraska veteran benefits give you or your spouse hiring preference in your initial application for employment with Nebraska state or local government. Veterans with passing scores on all parts of an examination or numerical scoring have 5% added to their passing score. An additional 5% is added to the passing scores of any disabled veteran. This also applies to spouses of active-duty service members for up to 180 days after that service member separates from service. |
Education Benefits | Dependents of Nebraska veterans may be eligible for a state program that waives 100% of tuition and tuition-related fees to attend the University of Nebraska campuses, Nebraska state colleges, and Nebraska community colleges. Nebraska student residents can use this waiver to receive one degree, diploma, or certificate from a community college and one baccalaureate degree from the university or state college. “Operation Recognition” awards honorary high school diplomas to eligible World War II and Korean War veterans who were attending a Nebraska high school but left to enter service and did not graduate after their honorable discharge. |
Recreation Benefits | Nebraska veteran benefits for recreation help you take advantage of all that the Cornhusker State’s great outdoors has to offer. These benefits include reduced fees for hunting and fishing licenses, and lifetime admission to Nebraska state parks for disabled veterans. |
Tax Benefits | An annual tax exemption is available to any Nevada resident veteran with wartime service. The exemption can be applied to your vehicle privilege tax or real property tax. Nevada offers a property tax exemption to any honorably discharged resident veteran with a permanent service-connected disability of 60% or more. Permanent rating of 60% to 79%: Receive a $14,600 exemption of the assessed value of their primary residence Permanent Rating of 80% to 99%: Receive a 21,900 exemption of the assessed value of their primary residence Permanent Rating of 100%: Receive a 29,200 exemption of the assessed value of their primary residence |
Employment Benefits | Veterans and surviving spouses of a members killed in the line-of-duty get ten points added to the passing grade of a state employment exam. National Guard members and all other surviving spouses get five points. Qualified disabled veterans are guaranteed an interview and non-disabled veterans must make up at least 22% of those interviewed for any open state job. |
Education Benefits | The University of Nevada system may grant a waiver of tuition and laboratory fees for any active member of the Nevada National Guard. Eligible veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart for their service in the U.S. Armed Forces may be provided a waiver of certain fees related to registration. A student to whom the fee waiver is awarded shall be deemed a bona fide resident of Nevada for tuition purposes. An NSHE institution shall waive registration, laboratory and other mandatory fees for eligible students. |
Recreation Benefits | The State of Nevada Wildlife Division issues discounted hunting & fishing licenses to any honorably separated veteran who has a service-connected disability of 50% or more. The State of Nevada Wildlife Division will issue a discounted combination license to Nevada residents stationed outside of Nevada and home on leave. |
Tax Benefits | Tax exemptions: $700 to $4,000 is subtracted from the property taxes due on the applicant’s residential property depending on the municipality you reside in, or Exempt from all taxation on their homestead. War veterans and their families who are unable to support themselves may be supported at public expense in the town or city where they live. |
Employment Benefits | Honorably discharged veterans get preference for city, town, and district jobs. Preference is also given in appointing employees of the State Liquor Commission, the State Veterans Council, the Commandant, and employees of the New Hampshire Veterans Home. Unremarried surviving spouses and spouses of disabled veterans may also qualify. |
Education Benefits | The University System of New Hampshire institutions will award tuition waivers to children of totally and permanently 100% disabled New Hampshire veterans when all eligibility requirements are met. Children of military members who die in service during wartime, and children of certain wartime veterans who die from a service-connected disability, may qualify for free tuition at New Hampshire colleges. They can also get a scholarship up to $2,500 per year for room/board/rent, books, and supplies for a period of no more than 4 years. Children must be between 16 – 25. |
Recreation Benefits | Honorably discharged NH resident veterans who are VA permanently and totally disabled can get a free lifetime hunting & fishing license. A one time $10 administration fee will be charged. Patients at the VA Medical Center in Manchester, NH, and residents of the NH Veterans’ Home may be issued free fishing permits under certain conditions. Disabled veterans may hunt from motor vehicles or boats under certain conditions with a proper permit. |
Tax Benefits | The full property tax exemption for 100 percent permanently and totally (P&T) disabled veterans is one of the best New Jersey disabled veteran benefits. Honorably discharged disabled veterans with a VA service-connected rating of 100 percent P&T may qualify for an annual full property tax exemption on their primary residence as long as they are New Jersey residents. No wartime service is required for this benefit. New Jersey veteran benefits include a $250 deduction on annual property tax for ALL honorably discharged veterans or their surviving spouses, so long as they are New Jersey residents. If both spouses are veterans, each can claim a deduction. |
Employment Benefits | New Jersey veterans receive absolute preference over non-veterans. Qualified veterans who receive a passing score on their civil service exam are placed at the top of competitive employment lists. Disabled veterans with a disability rating of 10 percent or greater, or the spouse of a veteran with a disability rating of 10 percent or greater, are given the highest preference. Veterans must have an honorable discharge to receive preference. |
Education Benefits | New Jersey veteran benefits for education include tuition assistance under separate programs for New Jersey National Guard members, Vietnam veterans, Prisoner of War or Missing in Action, and War Orphans. Active members of the New Jersey National Guard are eligible for free tuition for up to 16 credits per semester. New Jersey resident veterans who served between December 31, 1960 and May 7, 1975 are eligible for $400 per year reimbursement for college for full-time or $200 for part-time. Children of POW-MIA are eligible for free undergraduate college at any New Jersey private or public institution as part of New Jersey veteran benefits. |
Recreation Benefits | Disabled veterans are eligible for free fishing, firearm, bow hunting, and trapping licenses, saving up to $144. Active duty members stationed in New Jersey are eligible to purchase licenses at resident prices, saving up to $388. Any New Jersey resident veteran with an honorable discharge who also has ANY service-connected disability rating from the VA is eligible for free hunting and fishing licenses (worth up to $144). |
Tax Benefits | Any veteran who is rated 100% service-connected disabled by the VA can get a total waiver on their home’s property tax. Certain discharges may disqualify the veteran for this program. Any veteran, or their surviving spouse may be eligible for a deduction of up to $4,000 of the taxable value of property for property tax purposes. Every person who is entitled to a veteran exemption and who does not have sufficient real or personal property to claim the full property tax exemption may be eligible to pay motor vehicle registration fees at two-thirds the rates charged on vehicles the veteran owns. |
Employment Benefits | All honorably discharged veterans or anyone currently serving in the National Guard gets five points added to their final passing score on hiring exams for state employment. Honorably discharged veterans honorably discharged with a service-connected disability get ten points. Any business in the state of New Mexico can qualify for up to a $1,000 business tax credit for each hire of a recently-returned veteran. The state of New Mexico shall set aside an additional 5% hiring preference for veteran-owned businesses or contractors over the existing 5% preference currently established for locally-owned businesses during the bidding process for state contracts and jobs. |
Education Benefits | Children between the ages of 16-26 whose veteran parent was killed in action or died as a result of their wounds incurred in battle, qualify for a full tuition waiver at any state funded post-secondary school. A $150 stipend, per semester, will be issued to help with books or fees. A state scholarship for resident undergraduate and graduate students that provides tuition, fees, and book allowances to Vietnam Veterans certified by the New Mexico Veterans’ Service Commission. |
Recreation Benefits | Every Veterans Day, any honorably discharged New Mexico resident veteran or active duty member—along with their spouse and children–gets into any state park for free. Admission fees are also waived for campsites, the Museum of New Mexico, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, and the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Any veteran rated 50% or higher service-connected disabled can get an annual free day-use pass and three free nights of camping for personal use only. They can also get a free state monument and museum pass for personal use only. |
Tax Benefits | Military Pay: If your permanent home was New York state before entering the military, active-duty income is tax-free. New York state has three different property tax exemptions which are based on your military service, with additional benefits based upon degree of service-connected disability. |
Employment Benefits | Ten-point additional credit preference toward original appointment for disabled wartime veterans; five-points for wartime service; and two and a half points for other veterans. Job retention rights applicable to veterans and spouses of totally disabled veterans. |
Education Benefits | Veterans Tuition Awards pay for full-time and part-time study for honorably discharged NY resident wartime veterans at undergraduate or graduate schools or vocational training programs. Provides up to $450 per year to students whose parent(s) served in the US Armed Forces during specified times of national emergency. The veteran must currently be a New York State resident or have been a New York State resident at the time of death. The MERIT Scholarship provides financial aid to dependents of military members who died or were severely and permanently disabled as a result of their military service on or after Aug. 2, 1990. National Guard service counts, and the injury or death need not be combat-related. |
Recreation Benefits | NY resident veterans with a 40% or greater disability rating can get low cost hunting and fishing licenses. New York resident Wartime veterans with a 40% or greater disability are eligible for the Lifetime Liberty Pass. |
Tax Benefits | As of late 2022, all military retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments are tax free. Honorably discharged North Carolina veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled by the VA may be eligible for up to a $45,000 deduction in the assessed value of their home for property tax purposes. Disabled veterans may be exempt from paying the highway tax on vehicles that are specially adapted by the VA to accommodate their disabilities. |
Employment Benefits | North Carolina shows hiring preference to veterans in all state departments, agencies, and institutions. This hiring preference is extended to the spouses of disabled veterans, the surviving spouses of disabled veterans, or surviving spouses of a veteran who died in action. |
Education Benefits | The North Carolina Scholarship for Children of Wartime Veterans is awarded to the qualifying children of certain disabled or deceased veterans. The scholarship is for eight academic semesters at participating North Carolina state colleges, community colleges, technical schools, and private colleges. The recipient has eight years to utilize the eight academic semesters allotted to them. |
Recreation Benefits | All 50% or more disabled veterans can get a lifetime hunting-fishing license for $10 to $110 depending on the type of license. |
Tax Benefits | North Dakota veteran benefits include property tax credits for disabled veterans. Disabled veterans must have a VA disability rating of 50% or greater to be eligible. Veterans must also be honorably discharged. Surviving spouses are also eligible so long as they do not remarry. Disabled veterans who are paraplegic or who have been awarded specially adapted housing by the VA are exempt from property tax on the first $120,000 of the full valuation of their homestead as part of their North Dakota veteran benefits. |
Employment Benefits | All veterans with an honorable discharge receive a 5-point employment preference to interviews and exams over non-veterans for state jobs. Veterans with a disability rating receive a total of 10 points. Unremarried surviving spouses of veterans are also entitled to this benefit. Private employers in North Dakota also have the option of giving preference to veterans and their spouses if they so choose without violating equal employment opportunity law. |
Education Benefits | Veterans who served at least 180 days on active duty and were honorably discharged are eligible for in-state tuition regardless of their current state residency at North Dakota State supported schools. Spouses and dependents of these veterans are also eligible for in-state tuition rates. The annual cost of in-state tuition and fees at a North Dakota public college ranges from $3,300 to $10,000, making this benefit potentially worth $40,000 for a four-year degree. The North Dakota National Guard (NDNG) created a program to work with North Dakota colleges and universities to cover tuition and fees for members. If a North Dakota school participates in the program, the school will cover up to 35% of tuition for undergraduate courses. The North Dakota National Guard will cover up to 65% of tuition for both undergraduate and graduate, along with 100% of all regular fees. |
Recreation Benefits | North Dakota disabled veteran benefits include a discounted fishing license ($5.00) for state resident veterans with a VA disability rating of 50% or more. For resident disabled veterans with a VA rating of 100% P&T, the state also offers a combined general game, habitat stamp, small game, and fur-bearer license for $3.00. The North Dakota Parks and Recreation department offers one free lifetime state parks pass for POWs and resident disabled veterans with a VA disability rating of 50% or more. Veterans with a VA rating under 50% can still purchase an annual permit for $28. |
Tax Benefits | Active duty pay is tax-free if stationed out-of-state. Retirement pay and SBP payments are tax-free. Veterans rated by the VA as 100% disabled due to a service-connected disability and surviving spouses who occupy the same home are eligible for the expanded Homestead Exemption, the rate varies by location. The fund grants a one-time, tax-exempt payment to service members injured on active duty after Oct. 7, 2001, and to individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress while serving after Oct. 7, 2001. Recipients will receive a grant of $500. Surviving spouses may also be eligible for this grant. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans are entitled to 20% added credit on an Ohio civil service exam. Current reserve and guard members who successfully complete initial entry-level training get a 15% added credit. |
Education Benefits | The Ohio War Orphan & Severely Disabled Veterans’ Children Scholarship Program awards tuition assistance to the children of deceased or severely disabled Ohio veterans who served in the armed forces during a period of declared war or conflict. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition and fees at two and four-year public schools and at eligible private colleges and universities, the amount changes every year. |
Recreation Benefits | Ohio active-duty residents don’t have to buy a hunting license, fishing license, Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp, or fur taker permit while on leave. Non-resident active-duty members stationed in Ohio can buy a hunting license, fishing license, Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp, or fur taker permit for the resident rate. Ohio resident veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled and former POWs may receive free 5-year hunting and fishing licenses. |
Tax Benefits | Those with a permanent disability receiving service-connected compensation at the 100% rate as certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs are eligible for a sales tax exemption permit. Sales qualifying for the exemption are limited to $25,000.00 per year. The sales tax exemption for 100% disabled American veterans (DAV) extends to the surviving spouse of a deceased qualified DAV if the surviving spouse has not remarried. Sales qualifying for the exemption are limited to $1000.00 per year for the surviving spouse. All military pay is tax-free. The greater of 75% of retirement pay & SBP payments or $10,000 are tax-free. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans or their unremarried surviving spouses get 5 points added to their employment test. Disabled war veterans get 10 points, and disabled war veterans with at least a 30% disability are automatically placed at the top of the selection list. |
Education Benefits | Veterans with an honorable discharge may receive credit for education, training and experience received through military service that can be applied toward an degree from an Oklahoma college. Must enroll within 3 years for discharged to receive credit. Military Transcripts are known as Joint Services Transcripts. Oklahoma veterans who were prisoners of war of were missing in action and their dependents may be eligible for free tuition. |
Recreation Benefits | Oklahoma resident veterans with a VA disability of at least 60% can get a lifetime hunting & fishing license for $25. Those with a VA disability of less than 60% can get one for $200. |
Tax Benefits | If you’re a disabled veteran or the surviving spouse or registered domestic partner of a disabled veteran, you may be entitled to exempt $23,370 or $28,045 of your property’s assessed value from property taxes. (This amounts to an average savings of $350.)Active-duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve members, may also qualify for a residential property tax exemption. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans and disabled veterans receive preference when applying for federal, state, county, and local government jobs in Oregon. All veterans with other than dishonorable discharges receive a 5-point employment preference over non-veteran competitors (5 extra points added to their successful exam scores, giving them a hiring preference over non-veterans). Disabled veterans in Oregon get an advantage of 10 points. |
Education Benefits | The Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs offers educational benefits for veterans and their dependents, including programs for individuals who served in the Guard or Reserves. A child (including adopted children and stepchildren) or unremarried spouse of an individual who served in the U.S. military and who died while serving, who died due to a service-connected disability, or who is 100% disabled due to a service-connected disability, is eligible for a full tuition waiver at any Oregon public university or community college. All applicants must be residents of Oregon and must be an admitted to a public university or community college. At the time a child applies for a tuition waiver for a bachelor’s degree, he or she must be 23 or younger. Oregon offers a tuition benefit to residents of Oregon who have served in a combat zone since September 11, 2001. The Voyager Aid Program will make up the difference between educational benefits from the VA and remaining tuition and fee costs. |
Recreation Benefits | Service-connected disabled veterans get free parking and camping at Oregon state parks. |
Tax Benefits | Active duty pay earned out-of-state is tax-free. Military retirement pay and SBP payments are tax-free. Pennsylvania may provide temporary financial assistance to veterans and their unremarried surviving spouses for the necessities of life (food, shelter, fuel and clothing). Any honorably discharged Pennsylvania resident veteran with a 100% VA disability and wartime service may be exempt from property taxes on their home. There are income limits. Surviving spouses who have not remarried may also be eligible. |
Employment Benefits | Honorably discharged veterans who served on active duty after Aug. 2, 1990, spouses of disabled veterans, and surviving spouses of disabled veterans can get 10 additional points on their test scores for state employment. |
Education Benefits | Children of those who died in service or are permanently and totally disabled because of military service are eligible for up to $500 per semester for 4 years. The children must be between 16 and 23 years. The Military Family Education Program offers up to 10 semesters free college at a state school for families of National Guard members who execute a six-year contract. You cannot use the same six-year contract for both the National Guard Education Assistance Program and the Military Family Education Program. |
Recreation Benefits | Wartime veterans with 100% disability may be eligible for free hunting/fishing/trapping licenses.Veterans with a 60%–99% disability can get reduced fee licenses. Application can be made at your county treasurer. There are a variety of different hunting/trapping licenses available for Disabled Veterans. We recommend contacting the game commission or visiting the website listed above to see which one best applies. |
Tax Benefits | Veterans may qualify for exemptions up to $15,000 for ages 65 or older and are under the following income limits:$84,700 for single tax filers. $105,850 for married tax filers who file jointly. Rhode Island veteran benefits include no taxation on Military Disability pay or VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) pay. |
Employment Benefits | Rhode Island recognizes those who have served by offering employment preference to veterans and their family members. This also includes National Guard and Reserve retirees with at least 20 years of service. |
Education Benefits | Rhode Island offers free tuition to any Rhode Island public college or university for veterans with a disability rating of 10 percent or higher. he Rhode Island Guard has two separate programs for members of the National Guard: the State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP) and the State Exemption Program (STEP). Rhode Island honors the ultimate sacrifice of its National Guard members by paying full tuition at a state school for spouses and children of members killed in the line of duty. The state will pay tuition for up to four years. Children must enter college between the ages of 16 to 21. |
Recreation Benefits | All service members can purchase Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses at Rhode Island resident prices. In addition, if a resident with a hunting license enters active duty, his or her license remains valid until six months after discharge. Rhode Island veteran benefits also include a Special Deer Season for disabled hunters at the end of October each year. The hunt is limited to paraplegic and double amputee hunters only. Each veteran must be accompanied by an assistant. |
Tax Benefits | Members of the South Carolina National Guard and Reservists do not pay state income tax on their military pay. South Carolina also offers veterans deductions on military retirement pay. There are two options for these deductions: Deduction of up to $17,500 (for veterans under age 65).You must have other earned income to claim this deduction. If you have no other earned income, you can claim a deduction of up to $3,000. Deduction of up to $30,000 (for veterans age 65 and older). Military retirees 65 and older don’t have to have other earned income and can claim a deduction of up to $30,000 of military retirement income for 2020. Any retirement deduction and age 65 and older deductions are reduced by any military retirement deduction taken. |
Employment Benefits | South Carolina veterans and disabled veterans receive preference when applying for federal, state, county, and local government jobs. South Carolina offers interview preference to veterans. The state requires that at least one qualified veteran is interviewed for each job. Veterans must have an honorable discharge to receive preference, and meet minimum training and qualification requirements. |
Education Benefits | South Carolina veteran benefits for education are excellent. These opportunities for veterans and their families augment the federal education support available to all U.S. veterans. In-state tuition rates are available at any public college or university in South Carolina for active-duty military personnel or members of the National Guard (or their spouses or dependent children). |
Recreation Benefits | Active military and their dependents stationed in South Carolina for 30 days or more may purchase licenses at resident prices. Residents who are home on leave may hunt and fish without buying a license. Veterans can get park passes at a 50% discount. |
Tax Benefits | South Dakota disabled veteran benefits include three different options for property tax exemptions and refunds. Applications must be submitted to your local assessor from May 1st to July 1st of the current tax year. South Dakota homeowners with a 100 percent permanent and total (P&T) VA disability rating may be eligible for a $150,000 state property tax exemption. Surviving spouses are also eligible. South Dakota veteran benefits also include a property tax exemption for paraplegic veterans. South Dakota paraplegic veterans can apply for a complete property tax exemption. South Dakota is one of only seven states that doesn’t charge state income tax. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans and disabled veterans receive preference when applying for federal, state, county, and local government jobs in South Dakota. Veterans are automatically added to the interview list for a position as long as they meet minimum qualification requirements for the job. Additionally, veterans with a service-connected disability, spouses of disabled veterans unable to work, and unremarried surviving spouses receive additional interview preference. |
Education Benefits | Education-related South Dakota veteran benefits are excellent for veterans and their families, augmenting the federal education support available to all U.S. veterans. The free college tuition benefit for veterans is one of the best state benefits available. South Dakota veteran benefits include in-state tuition rates. In-state tuition rates are offered at any South Dakota state school for active-duty military, veterans, spouses and dependent children. All universities and local community colleges in South Dakota award academic credit toward a degree for education and training received in the military. |
Recreation Benefits | Veterans with a VA disability rating of 40% or higher or a POW, may qualify for a $10 hunting and fishing license. This license is good for four years and provides a small game license and resident fishing license. |
Tax Benefits | Property tax relief for certain 100% disabled veterans for up to $175,000 of the property’s assessed value. Any former POW or 100% permanent and total disabled veteran is exempt from the county motor vehicle privilege tax. |
Employment Benefits | The following employment benefits are available in Tennessee: Veterans’ preference in state employment Credit for military service in state employment Reemployment rights of public employees |
Education Benefits | Dependents Tuition Waiver - This program covers the full cost of college at Tennessee state colleges for survivors of veterans killed in action or died as a result of injuries suffered in war. Children must be under the age of 23. The Helping Heroes Grant is established and funded from the net proceeds of the state lottery and awarded to US veterans who were honorably discharged or who are a former or current member of a reserve or TN National Guard unit. |
Recreation Benefits | Free hunting and fishing licenses for 100% permanently disabled veterans or those with a 30% disability due to war service. |
Tax Benefits | Property tax reduction between 10% and 90%. No income tax. Exempts military retirement pay, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments, and VA disability compensation payments from any taxation. |
Employment Benefits | The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) offers: One-on-one job coaching, interview skills, and resume development. On-the-Job training programs, which allow Veterans to learn a trade or skill through training on the job rather than by attending a formal program. |
Education Benefits | The Hazelwood Act provides veterans, spouses, and dependent children with up to 150 hours of tuition free college at state schools. |
Recreation Benefits | Texas also offers disabled veterans with a 60% VA rating or higher a free driver’s license and Disabled Veteran plates. Finally, Texas disabled veterans with a 50% VA rating or higher get a free super combo hunting and fishing license each year. |
Tax Benefits | Utah offers disabled veterans with a VA disability rating of 10% (or greater) a property tax exemption of up to $275,699 of the taxable value of their residence (or personal property). The amount of your exemption is based on your VA disability percentage, and veterans with 100% VA disability can claim the entire exemption. Utah disabled veteran retirement pay is not subject to state income tax. |
Employment Benefits | The Utah Patriot Partnership program recognizes the efforts of organizations that hire and retain veterans in their workforce. Utah veteran benefits entitle you to hiring preferences when seeking initial employment with the Utah state government: Five points or 5% of the total possible score (whichever is greater) if the applicant is a veteran 10 points or 10% of the total possible score (whichever is greater) for a Utah disabled veteran or Purple Heart recipient, or A spouse or surviving spouse may receive the same preferences as the qualifying veteran |
Education Benefits | Veterans released from active service within 12 months of attending school are granted in-state tuition rates at Utah schools. See your school’s admissions office to apply. Purple Heart recipients are eligible for a tuition waiver at all public institutions of higher learning in Utah. This benefit can be used toward a degree up to and including a master’s degree. Utah veteran benefits include tuition assistance for the final school year at Utah higher education institutions. The assistance is for tuition only and does not include housing, books, or other expenses. |
Recreation Benefits | Reduced-fee fishing and hunting licenses are available to Utah disabled veterans: One-year fishing license, $12.00 One-year hunting license, $25.50 One-year combination license, $28.50 |
Tax Benefits | No taxes on Military Disability pay or VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) pay. |
Employment Benefits | Vermont recognizes those who have served by offering employment preference to veterans and their family members. Veterans and disabled veterans receive preference when applying for federal, state, county, and local government jobs in Vermont. All honorably discharged veterans receive preference points added to their total application score. |
Education Benefits | The Vermont Armed Services Scholarship provides free tuition for the families of Vermont service members who died on active or inactive duty. In 2018, Vermont began offering student loan forgiveness to Vermont National Guard members. Members are now eligible for loan forgiveness for tuition at a Vermont university, college, or other approved program. Vermont colleges and universities recognize milurary training, and may award academic credit for it toward your degree. |
Recreation Benefits | Veterans with a VA disability rating of 60 percent or more are eligible for a free permanent fishing or combination hunting and fishing license. You must be a Vermont resident to apply for a permanent license. Residents of states with hunting and fishing reciprocity agreements with Vermont are eligible for a free one-year license. |
Tax Benefits | Active Duty Pay–Up to $15,000 of military basic pay may be exempted from Virginia income tax. For VA National Guard, up to 39 calendar days of service or $3,000 (whichever is less) may be deducted from your income when filing. This deduction is only available for O-3 and below. Veterans with a VA 100% permanent and total disability or rated at 100% under IU that is permanent and total are exempt from property taxes on their home. The surviving spouse may also be eligible. |
Employment Benefits | Veterans seeking state employment can get a 5% addition to their test score. Disabled veterans can get a 10% addition. Surviving spouses or children may also be eligible to receive a 5% addition to their score. The Virginia Transition Assistance Program (V3 (formerly known as the VTAP program)) - offers transitioning service members and their spouses peer-to-peer support through the transition process. The referral services include such things as resume review, introduction to the labor market, and connections with certified companies for employment, and other DVS programs as applicable. |
Education Benefits | The Military Survivors and Dependents Program provides educations benefits to spouses and children of military service members killed, missing in action, taken prisoner, or who became at least 90% disabled because of military service in an armed conflict. Benefits are available for up to 36 months. VMSDEP Stipend – Eligible students may receive a stipend one time during the semester to off-set educational expenses such as room, board, books, and supplies. SCHEV works with DVS and the public colleges and universities in disbursing funds. |
Recreation Benefits | Virginia offers a free lifetime hunting and fishing license, and a discounted saltwater license for Virginia resident veterans who are permanently and totally service-connected disabled. Veterans with at least 70% VA disability can get discounted hunting and freshwater fishing licenses. Veterans with 100% VA disability are eligible for free admission and parking and admission for the pass holder and anyone needed to assist them at Virginia state parks. |
Tax Benefits | A property tax exemption is available to disabled veterans in Washington. The qualifying applicant receives a reduction of property taxes based on the applicant’s income, value of the residence, and local levy rates. Qualifying surviving spouses may receive a grant to assist them with payment of property taxes. The surviving spouse must be at least 62 years old by December 31 of the year the taxes are due or be retired by reason of disability. |
Employment Benefits | Public employers must offer hiring preference to honorably discharged veterans, surviving spouses, and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants must be able to perform the duties required of the position. If an employer is administering an examination prior to hiring, the employer must add the following percentages to their passing scores: 10% to wartime veterans’ scores 5% to non-wartime veterans’ scores 5% to a promotional exam score of a veteran called to active service while in public employment (only applies until first promotion) |
Education Benefits | State community colleges, as well as other colleges and universities, will waive all or a portion of tuition and fees for eligible veterans. The state will also provide a $500 stipend for textbooks and course materials. State universities, regional universities, the Evergreen State College, and community and technical colleges will waive all tuition and fees for eligible dependents of veterans who are declared prisoners of war, 100% disabled, or who died in active military service. The state will also provide a $500 stipend for textbooks and course materials. Washington state Operation Recognition issues high school diplomas to eligible veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. |
Recreation Benefits | The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife offers licensing fees at half price for disable veterans. Washington state disabled veterans benefits including use of Washington State parks at no charge. |
Tax Benefits | West Virginia veteran benefits include a property tax exemption for disabled veterans. If you have a 100 percent permanent and total (P&T) VA disability rating, you may be eligible for a $20,000 property tax exemption. West Virginia has excellent state income tax benefits for service members and veterans. As an active duty service member, you aren’t required to pay state income tax on your military pay if you’re stationed outside of West Virginia. One major consideration for income tax is military retirement pay, as West Virginia does not levy state income tax on retired military members. |
Employment Benefits | West Virginia recognizes those who have served by offering employment preference to veterans when they apply for federal, state, county, and local government jobs in West Virginia. Veterans with an honorable discharge receive five points added to their civil service exam as long as they have an initial passing score. West Virginia disabled veteran benefits are even better: ten total points for Purple Heart recipients or disabled veterans with any disability rating. |
Education Benefits | In-state tuition rates are available at any public West Virginia college or university for active-duty military personnel or members of the National Guard, or their spouses or dependent children. All universities and local community colleges in West Virginia use the recommendations made by the American Council on Education to award academic credit toward a degree for education and training received in the military. Veterans enrolled in a certified post-secondary class in West Virginia may qualify for a $500 stipend per semester. Children and spouses of service members killed in the line of duty may be eligible for free college from West Virginia. |
Recreation Benefits | West Virginia veteran benefits include free hunting and fishing for residents who are former POWs or veterans with a 100 percent permanent and total (P&T) VA disability rating. If you qualify, you don’t need to purchase a license. Simply carry proof of your disability or POW status while hunting and fishing. |
Tax Benefits | All retirement payments received from the U.S. military retirement system are exempt from Wisconsin income tax. The Wisconsin Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit gives eligible veterans a property tax credit for their primary in-state residence and up to one acre of land. |
Employment Benefits | Recently unemployed or underemployed veterans may receive a grant of up to $3,000 per year, for a maximum of two years, if they have a financial need while being retrained for employment. Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty during certain periods or campaigns are entitled to preference over non-veterans both in federal hiring and in retention during reductions in force. Candidates who pass an examination are ranked by their scores. Those eligible for preference are entitled to have 5 to 10 extra points added to a passing grade of 70% or higher. |
Education Benefits | Service members, reservists, and veterans pursuing a college education may be able to obtain academic credit for military courses they have completed through the military. The Wisconsin GI Bill pays full tuition and segregated fees for eligible veterans and their dependents. Eligible participants can receive up to eight full-time semesters or 128 credits, whichever is greater, at any University of Wisconsin System or Wisconsin Technical College System school. The Veterans Education (VetEd) grant program provides a reimbursement grant based on a credit-bank system based on length of active-duty military service. Veterans who have not yet been awarded a bachelor’s degree may be eligible. |
Recreation Benefits | Wisconsin offers a variety of free or reduced fee hunting, fishing and park admission passes to disabled veterans. |
Tax Benefits | Certain veterans can get $3,000 off their primary residence’s assessed value for tax purposes (or have their vehicle licensing fee waived if they do not own their own home). The exemption applies to taxes on a veteran’s primary residence, lowering the assessed value by $3,000. (The $800 cap was removed in 2007. Veterans who reached the previous cap can reapply.) |
Employment Benefits | All veterans with other than dishonorable discharges receive a 5-point employment preference over non-veteran competitors for state jobs (5 extra points added to their successful exam scores, giving them a hiring preference over non-veterans). Veterans with a disability rating of 10% or more get an advantage of 10 points. Surviving spouses may also be entitled to this benefit. The Wyoming Military Department also has a program to help traditional Guard members and their family members find civilian employment opportunities within their communities. |
Education Benefits | Wyoming Statute 19-14-106 provides a veterans tuition benefit in the form of free tuition and fees for overseas combat veterans, surviving spouses and dependents. For the National Guard, this benefit pays 100% resident-rate tuition and mandatory fees (base fees applicable to all students) at state-sponsored community colleges, the University of Wyoming, and the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy. Wyoming Operation Recognition offers high school diplomas for veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam who were unable to complete their Wyoming high school education before entering service. |
Recreation Benefits | The Game and Fish Department will issue lifetime bird, small game, and fish licenses to Wyoming 100% disabled veterans at no charge. The license is valid so long as the licensee remains a Wyoming resident. |
State | Veterans |
---|---|
California | 1,642,998 |
Texas | 1,567,233 |
Florida | 1,138,558 |
Pennsylvania | 769,423 |
New York | 747,157 |
Ohio | 729,645 |
Virginia | 707,668 |
North Carolina | 703,142 |
Georgia | 690,389 |
Illinois | 608,035 |
Michigan | 562,329 |
Washington | 551,512 |
Arkansas | 508,157 |
Tennessee | 453,621 |
Missouri | 416,035 |
Indiana | 406,757 |
South Carolina | 393,684 |
Colorado | 385,807 |
Maryland | 372,573 |
Alabama | 359,506 |
Wisconsin | 350,042 |
New Jersey | 338,012 |
Minnesota | 313,912 |
Massachusetts | 309,447 |
Oklahoma | 291,315 |
Oregon | 284,141 |
Kentucky | 282,767 |
Louisiana | 279,287 |
Nevada | 219,698 |
Arizona | 211,003 |
Kansas | 195,434 |
Iowa | 193,861 |
Mississippi | 187,072 |
Connecticut | 171,969 |
New Mexico | 149,756 |
Utah | 132,960 |
West Virginia | 132,190 |
Idaho | 127,641 |
Nebraska | 125,852 |
Hawaii | 112,677 |
Maine | 112,626 |
New Hampshire | 101,280 |
Montana | 89,275 |
Alaska | 71,454 |
Delaware | 70,958 |
South Dakota | 65,429 |
Rhode Island | 62,224 |
North Dakota | 53,254 |
Wyoming | 46,906 |
Vermont | 42,029 |