The BEST Veteran Benefits By State (2024 Update)

In this definitive guide, Brian Reese the VA Claims Insider reveals and explains the best veteran benefits by state.

All 50 states offer benefits for veterans, which are administered through each state’s veteran affairs offices (we’ve linked to each state’s official veteran’s website below).

The states are arranged alphabetically to help you quickly search and find the best benefits available in your state.

Let’s begin!

Key Findings of Our Research

• 20 states offer full property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, meaning eligible veterans are completely exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence.

• Texas is the #1 overall state for veteran benefits because of its generous property tax exemptions for disabled veterans rated at 10% or more along with no state income tax and free in-state college tuition for veterans and their dependents via the Hazelwood Act.

• Florida is the #2 best state for veteran benefits with offerings such as property tax exemptions for veterans with a VA rating for 10% or higher along with no state income tax and free in-state college tuition benefits via the Congressman C.W. Bill Young Tuition Waiver Program.

• Other states with great benefits for veterans include Alaska, Nevada, Illinois, Virginia, California, North Carolina, New York, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Maryland.

List of 10 States with the Best Veteran Benefits

• #1. Texas

• #2. Florida

• #3. Alaska

• #4. Nevada

• #5. Illinois

• #6. Virginia

• #7. North Carolina

• #8. New York

• #9. Georgia

• #10. Pennsylvania

Alabama Veteran Benefits

Veterans residing in Alabama have access to a range of benefits in various areas, including recreational activities, housing, education, employment, and more.

Recreation Benefits

• Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Alabama veterans with a disability rating of 20% or more can purchase annual freshwater or saltwater fishing licenses at a reduced rate of $3.30 each. Special hunting licenses are also available at discounted rates for 100% service-connected veterans and for those with 50% service-connected disabilities.
• State Parks Admission: The Alabama Parks for Patriots Program offers free admission to state parks for resident veterans and active duty service members, with nonresident service members and veterans also eligible for free admission on state and federal holidays​​.

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Alabama operates four veterans homes providing long-term care, including 24-hour nursing, therapy, and pharmacy services. Eligibility requirements include an honorable discharge, a minimum of 90 days active duty service, and Alabama residency for 12 months prior to application​​.
• Tax Breaks and Exemptions: Veterans can benefit from various tax exemptions, such as ad valorem tax exemption for homes of totally disabled persons over age 65, property tax exemptions for homes acquired under the VA’s specially adapted housing grant, and exemption from license fees and ad valorem taxes on vehicles paid for by the VA grant​​.
• Alabama veterans with a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) VA disability rating are exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence (with no income limitation). A veteran’s surviving spouse may be entitled to the same exemption to which the veteran was entitled with some limited exceptions.

Employment Benefits

• Unemployment Compensation: Honorably discharged veterans and their spouses may be eligible for unemployment compensation under certain conditions, such as following a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move.
• Small Business Incentives: Tax credits are available for businesses employing recently deployed, discharged, and now unemployed veterans, as well as for veterans starting their own businesses.
• Reemployment Protection: Alabama provides job protection and reemployment rights for service members called into service and for state employees or teachers who are military members, allowing them to claim credit for military service towards retirement​​.

Education Benefits

• Tuition Waiver for Purple Heart Recipients: Eligible recipients can receive free education at public institutions in Alabama.
• Alabama GI Dependent Scholarship Program: Offers tuition and book scholarships to dependents of service-connected disabled veterans, with specific eligibility criteria regarding the veteran’s disability rating and residency.
• Alabama National Guard Education Assistance Program (ANGEAP): Provides tuition assistance up to $5,080 per semester for eligible National Guard service members​​.

Alaska Veteran Benefits

Alaska provides a variety of benefits to its veteran residents, touching on housing, education, employment, and recreational opportunities.

Housing Benefits

• Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home: Offers assisted living to veterans 65 or older who require such care and have resided in Alaska for at least a year before applying​​.
• Veterans Land Discount/Purchase Preference: Provides a chance to purchase unoccupied residential land through a restricted sale at fair appraised market value, including a 20% discount for qualified veterans​​​​.
• Veterans Mortgage Program: Administered by the Alaska Housing Finance Corp. (AHFC), it offers financing to qualified veterans at low interest rates, with little or no down payment required​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• Hiring Preference: Veterans and eligible spouses may qualify for priority services through the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, including job search assistance and employment counseling​​.
• State Employment Preference: Veterans and National Guard members may receive a preference in hiring for state government jobs, potentially adding 5% or 10% to their exam scores​​.

Education Benefits

• Tuition Waivers: Surviving spouses and dependents of deceased veterans may qualify for waivers on undergraduate tuition and fees at University of Alaska institutions. National Guard members may also be eligible for up to 100% tuition assistance​​.

Recreation Benefits

• State Park Access: Disabled veterans are eligible for a free Alaska State Park Camping Pass, valid for two years in all developed state park campgrounds​​.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans with at least a 50% disability and an honorable discharge can obtain free hunting and sport fishing licenses. Active-duty military members stationed in Alaska and their dependents can get licenses at resident rates​​.

Additional Benefits

• Property Tax Exemptions: Veterans with a 50% or greater VA or military disability rating are exempt from taxes on the first $150,000 of assessed value of their home​​.
• Death Gratuity: A death gratuity of $750 is available to the surviving spouse or personal representative of a qualified veteran who was a resident of Alaska at the time of death​​.

Arizona Veteran Benefits

Arizona offers a variety of benefits to its veteran residents, providing support across education, employment, housing, financial assistance, and more. Here’s a summary of some of the key benefits available:

Education Benefits

• Tuition and Fees-Deferred Payment: Veterans and eligible dependents can have tuition, fees, and book payments deferred for 120 days with no interest charge while awaiting G.I. Bill benefits​​.
• In-State Tuition: Immediate residency status is granted for eligible veterans and dependents, allowing them to pay in-state tuition rates​​.
• Arizona Purple Heart Tuition Waiver: Offers tuition waivers to post-9/11 veterans with at least a 50% VA disability rating and recipients of the Purple Heart medal, along with dependent children and spouses of Arizona military members killed in the line of duty​​.

Employment Benefits

• Civil Service Preference: Extra points are added to the certification scores of veterans and certain spouses in state, county, or city civil service exams​​.
• Veteran Employment Roadmap: A resource developed to connect veterans to employment, training, and resources in Arizona​​.
• Veterans Toolkit Program: Provides up to $750 in supplies needed for employment for eligible veterans​​.

Housing Benefits

• State Veteran Homes: Arizona has veteran homes in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Yuma offering skilled nursing care​​.
• Arizona Veterans Stand-down Alliance (AVSA): Organizes events providing resources for veterans experiencing homelessness or housing instability​​.

Financial Benefits

• State Income Tax Exemptions: Federal payments up to $2,500 per year are exempt from state income tax for veterans​​.
• Vehicle License Tax and Registration Fees: Exemptions are available for 100% service-connected disabled veterans​​.
• Arizona Military Family Relief Fund: Offers financial assistance to families of deployed service members and post-9/11 veterans experiencing hardship​​.

Additional Benefits

• Benefits Counseling: Free information and assistance on veterans benefits through Veterans Benefits Counselors​​.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Free or discounted licenses for 100% disabled veterans​​.
• State Parks Access: “Disabled Veterans Annual Day Use pass” for free access to state parks​​.
• Veteran Designation on Driver Licenses and ID: Option to have a “VETERAN” designation on Arizona issued licenses and IDs​​.

Arkansas Veteran Benefits

Arkansas offers a variety of benefits to its veteran residents across several categories, including education, employment, housing, financial assistance, and recreational opportunities. Here’s an overview based on the information gathered:

Education Benefits

• Tuition Benefits for Military Dependents: Offers free tuition and fees for qualifying military spouses and dependent children at state-supported colleges, universities, technical schools, or vocational schools​​.
• In-State Tuition: Veterans, qualifying military dependents, currently serving military members, and dependent spouses are eligible for in-state tuition rates​​.
• Diplomas for Veterans Program: Provides high school diplomas to veterans who left high school to serve in WWII, Korea, or Vietnam​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Hiring Preference Points: Veterans and spouses of disabled or deceased veterans receive preference points for state job applications​​.
• Arkansas Workforce Services for Veterans: Offers job counseling and referral services, including programs specifically designed for disabled veterans​​.

Housing Benefits

• Arkansas State Veterans Homes: Two veterans’ homes in Fayetteville and North Little Rock provide 24-hour nursing service and medical care​​​​.
• Homestead and Personal Property Tax Exemption: Available for veterans with certain disabilities, un-remarried surviving spouses, and dependent minor children​​.
• Arkansas veterans with a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) VA disability rating are exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence. To qualify for the exemption, the veteran must own the property and must have a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) VA disability rating OR have been awarded Special Monthly Compensation by VA for (1) The loss or loss of use of one or more limbs or (2) Total blindness in one or both eyes.

Financial Benefits

• Military Retirement Pay Tax Exemption: Military retirement pay is fully exempt from state taxes in Arkansas​​.
• Homestead Tax Exemption: Disabled veterans who meet specific criteria are exempt from state taxes on their homestead and personal property​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Park Discounts: 100% permanently disabled veterans can enjoy half-price camping in most Arkansas State Parks​​.
• Hunting and Fishing License Discounts: Available to military retirees over age 60 and 100% disabled veterans who are Arkansas residents​​.

Additional Benefits

• Arkansas State Veteran Cemeteries: Veterans, spouses, and dependent children may qualify for interment at the state veterans’ cemeteries in North Little Rock and Birdeye​​.

California Veteran Benefits

California offers a wide array of benefits to its veterans, from property tax exemptions and educational assistance to employment opportunities and recreational privileges. Here’s an overview:

Property Tax Exemptions

• General Exemption: Eligible veterans or their spouses/pensioned-parents can receive a $4,000 exemption on real or personal property.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Offers a significant property tax exemption for homes of 100% disabled veterans or their unmarried surviving spouses, with two exemption levels based on income​​.

Education Benefits

• College Fee Waiver: For dependents of veterans with service-connected disabilities, Medal of Honor recipients, or those who are deceased or have a service-related condition. This waiver is for systemwide tuition and fees at California public colleges.
• California National Guard Education Assistance: Covers tuition costs at state universities and community colleges for California National Guard members​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans and their spouses are given preference in state employment exams, enhancing their eligibility for state jobs.
• The Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise program provides disabled veterans with an opportunity to compete for state contracts​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Discounted fishing and hunting licenses for veterans with a 50% or greater service-connected disability.
• State Parks and Recreation Pass for war veterans who are California residents with a 50% or more service-connected disability, former prisoners of war, or Medal of Honor recipients, offering free access to state parks​​.

Vehicle Registration Fees Waived

• Medal of Honor recipients, former POWs, and certain disabled veterans may qualify for waived registration fees and receive free license plates for one vehicle​​.

California Military Family Relief Fund

• Provides financial assistance to California National Guard members and their families affected by mobilization and deployment​​.

Veterans Homes

• California operates veterans homes providing comprehensive care to veterans. Eligibility criteria include having no criminal record, an honorable discharge, and a medical need for nursing home placement. Arkansas residents have first priority, and veterans’ spouses and Gold Star parents may also apply​​.

Colorado Veteran Benefits

Colorado offers a comprehensive array of benefits for veterans, including housing assistance, financial benefits, educational opportunities, and recreational privileges. Here’s a brief overview based on the information gathered:

Housing and Financial Assistance

• Property Tax Exemptions: Colorado provides a significant property tax exemption for 100% permanently and totally disabled service-connected veterans. Additionally, the Property Tax Deferral Program offers a way for military personnel and seniors to defer property tax payments​​​​.
• CHFA Home Loans: Qualified veterans have access to affordable interest rates on home loans through the Colorado Housing Finance Authority (CHFA), including Firststep, Firststep Plus, SmartStep, and SmartStep Plus programs​​.
• Income Tax Benefits: Active-duty military stationed outside of Colorado are exempt from state income tax. Retired military pay is also partially exempt from income tax, with exclusions varying by age​​.

Education and Employment

• Colorado National Guard Education Benefits: Members are eligible for state tuition assistance, covering up to 100% tuition at Colorado state-funded institutions, depending on funding availability​​.
• Veteran Employment Benefits: Colorado offers veterans preference points for state employment exams to honorably discharged veterans, their spouses, or surviving spouses of 100% disabled veterans​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Colorado provides free or discounted hunting and fishing licenses for veterans with disabilities and active-duty military personnel. Additionally, all active-duty members and veterans receive free state park admission in August and on Veterans Day​​​​.
• State Parks Admission: Veterans with a Disabled Veterans License Plate enjoy free admission to state parks. The Columbine Annual Pass offers discounted access for residents with total and permanent disabilities​​.

Other Benefits

• State Veterans Community Living Centers: Colorado maintains five state veterans’ homes offering comprehensive care for veterans, their spouses, widows, and Gold Star parents​​.
• Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado: Provides a dignified final resting place for veterans, meeting the same eligibility requirements as for VA national cemeteries, but includes a residency requirement​​.

Connecticut Veteran Benefits

Veterans in Connecticut have access to a variety of benefits ranging from educational support to healthcare, financial aid, and employment opportunities. Here’s a detailed overview:

Education

• Tuition Waivers: Veterans can attend Connecticut Public Colleges and Universities tuition-free, covering 100% of tuition for General Fund courses and 50% for Extension Fund and summer courses at Connecticut State Universities​​.
• High School Diplomas: WWII veterans who left high school for military service may receive diplomas from local Boards of Education​​.

Employment

• State Job Protection: Veterans who leave certain jobs for military service are entitled to be reinstated in their former positions upon return, within 90 days of confirming satisfactory service​​.
• Hiring Preferences: Wartime veterans may receive additional points on state and municipal employment exams, with specific points awarded based on eligibility for VA compensation, wartime service, and more​​.

Health and Welfare

• Healthcare Services: Veterans and their families are eligible for medical, dental, and prescription coverage, with specialized services available for female health issues and mental health support, including PTSD treatment​​.
• Veterans Home in Rocky Hill: Offers a residential program, substance abuse recovery program, and skilled care, with services provided by staff physicians, nurses, and community specialists​​.

Financial

• Tax Breaks: Veterans may qualify for property tax exemptions, with additional exemptions for disabled veterans and surviving spouses​​​​. Connecticut does not tax military retirement pay​​.
• Military Relief Fund: Provides grants to service members and their families experiencing financial hardship due to military service, with grants not exceeding $5,000​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Active-duty military members can purchase licenses at the resident rate​​.
• State Parks: Connecticut offers a free lifetime pass to all state parks and forests for residents with a service-connected disability​​.

Additional Support

• Veterans Cemetery: Eligibility for burial in the state veterans cemetery in Middletown for veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and their spouses​​.
• Connecticut Military Mortgage Option: Special home buyer benefits are available through the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority for military families and veterans​​.

Delaware Veteran Benefits

Delaware offers a range of benefits to veterans, including educational support, financial assistance, employment opportunities, housing programs, and recreational discounts.

Educational Benefits

• Delaware Veterans Home: Available for veterans who were Delaware residents for at least one year before applying, served at least 180 days on active duty, and require nursing home level care​​.
• Children of Deceased Veterans: Eligible children of military members who died on active duty or from related diseases can receive up to four years of free college education​​.
• Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance: Offers up to 100% tuition at state colleges/universities or the average of in-state tuition at private colleges/universities in Delaware​​.

Financial and Employment Benefits

• Pension for Paraplegic Veterans: A pension of $3,000 per year is available for paraplegic veterans​​.
• Income Tax Exemptions: Military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are partially tax-free​​.
• State Employment Veterans Preference: Provides additional points for disabled veterans and other eligible veterans applying for state jobs​​.

Housing and Loan Programs

• Delaware State Housing Authority Preferred Plus Home Loan: Assists borrowers, including veterans, in purchasing a primary residence​​.
• First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit and Transfer Tax Break: Offers tax credits and refunds under certain conditions to qualifying first-time homebuyers, including veterans​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Park Admission: Active duty members or veterans with honorable discharge receive a 50% discount on the annual fee for vehicle entrance to state parks and recreational areas​​.
• Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Discounts and special rates are available for active-duty members stationed in Delaware and disabled veterans​​.

Other Benefits

• Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: Eligibility for burial in state veterans cemeteries is similar to national veterans cemetery requirements and includes a residency requirement​​.
• Document and Notary Services for Veterans: Assistance with obtaining service-related documents and free notary services are available​​.

Florida Veteran Benefits

Florida offers a comprehensive array of benefits for veterans, covering housing, education, employment, financial assistance, and recreational privileges.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Florida has six Veterans’ nursing homes and one assisted living facility across the state. Eligibility includes an honorable discharge, Florida residency for one year before admission, and a need for nursing home care certified by a VA physician​​.
• Property Tax Exemptions: Various property tax exemptions are available, including for disabled veterans, homestead exemption for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans, and exemptions for surviving spouses of service members who died from service-connected causes​​​​.
• No State Income Tax: Veterans in Florida benefit from the state’s lack of a personal income tax, applying to veterans and non-veterans alike​​.

Education Benefits

• Tuition Waivers and Scholarships: Florida waives out-of-state tuition fees for veterans and offers scholarships for dependents of deceased or disabled veterans. Priority registration is provided to students using the GI Bill at state colleges and universities.
• College Credit for Military Training: Veterans can earn academic credit for military training and education​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• Occupational License and Business Fee Waivers: Florida offers waivers for various fees, including occupational licenses for veterans, spouses, and in some cases, fee waivers for veteran-owned businesses​​.
• Veterans’ Employment Preference: Veterans receive hiring preference for state jobs, with additional points added to civil service exams for veterans, disabled veterans, and certain family members​​​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Park Admission: Discounts on annual passes to state parks for all honorably discharged veterans and free passes for those with service-connected disabilities. Reduced fees or free hunting and fishing licenses are also available for certain veterans​​​​.

Additional Benefits

• Driver’s License and ID Cards: Special veteran designations on driver licenses and state ID cards, along with no-fee licenses for 100% disabled veterans​​.
• Legal and Burial Benefits: Florida has established veterans courts to address specific issues, and while the state itself doesn’t extend burial benefits, national cemeteries within Florida are available for veterans​​.

Georgia Veteran Benefits

Georgia provides a variety of benefits for veterans, covering areas like education, employment, housing, health care, and recreational opportunities. Here’s an overview based on the information from Military.com​​, VA Claims Insider​​, and Veteran.com​​:

Educational Benefits

• Resident Tuition Rates: Veterans and their dependents can qualify for resident tuition rates under certain conditions.
• College Credit for Military Experience: Georgia colleges may award academic credit for military training.
• Waivers for Mandatory Fees: Combat veterans may be eligible for waivers of mandatory fees at University System of Georgia schools.
• Georgia Hero Scholarship: Offers tuition assistance for members of the Georgia National Guard or Reserves and their dependents.
• High School Diplomas for Veterans: Veterans who did not graduate due to service in WWII, Korea, or Vietnam can obtain a high school diploma.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Hiring Preference: Georgia gives a hiring preference to qualifying war veterans and those with service-connected disabilities for state employment.
• Business Certificate of Exemption: Qualifying veterans can receive exemptions from certain taxes and fees for conducting a business or profession.

Housing Benefits

• Georgia Dream Loan: Provides down-payment assistance for active-duty service members and other groups.
• Veterans Assisted Care Homes and Nursing Homes: Available for eligible war veterans, with facilities in Augusta and Milledgeville.

Health Care

• Georgia offers comprehensive VA health care services across various locations, ensuring veterans have access to the medical care they need.

Recreational Benefits

• State Park Discounts: Veterans with service-connected disabilities and honorable discharges can get a 25% discount on state park entrance fees.
• Free Full Privilege Sportsman Licenses: Returning veterans may be eligible for a one-year free sportsman’s license.

Additional Benefits

• Tax Exemptions and Credits: Veterans may be eligible for property tax exemptions, income tax benefits, and vehicle tax exemptions.
• Free Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Qualifying veterans and their spouses can receive free driver’s licenses and ID cards.
• Veteran License Plates: A variety of veteran-designated license plates are available, some of which are free.
• Burial Benefits: Qualified veterans and their dependents have access to state veterans cemeteries.

Hawaii Veteran Benefits

Hawaii offers a variety of benefits to veterans, including housing assistance, financial benefits, education programs, employment preferences, recreational opportunities, and more.

Housing Benefits

• Hawaii State Veterans Home: Offers skilled nursing care for eligible veterans over 55. Costs not covered by VA or Medicare are the responsibility of the veteran​​.
• Special Housing for Disabled Veterans: Provides up to $5,000 for purchasing or remodeling a home to improve accessibility for totally disabled veterans​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income and Property Tax Exemptions: Retired pay and SBP payments are tax-free. Property owned and occupied by a totally disabled veteran or their surviving spouse may be exempt from all property taxes​​.

Employment Benefits

• Hiring Preferences: For public employment, non-disabled veterans receive 5 preference points, while disabled veterans receive 10. Preference points are added to examination scores for applicants in competitive recruitments​​.

Educational Benefits

• Resident Tuition Eligibility: For U.S. troops stationed in Hawaii, Hawaii National Guard and Hawaii-based Reserve members, and nonresident veterans within three years of discharge who live in Hawaii​​.
• Hawaii National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP): Offers tuition waivers for eligible service members, covering 100% of community college tuition and 50% of four-year university tuition​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting Licenses: Active duty military personnel and their dependents stationed in Hawaii are considered residents for hunting license purposes​​.

Vehicle Registration and Special Licenses

• Vehicle Registration Fee Waiver: Available for permanently disabled veterans, offering a $45 discount on state registration fees​​.
• Veteran Designation for Driver Licenses and ID Cards: Eligible veterans can receive a “Veteran” designation on their driver’s license or ID card​​.

Additional Support Services

• Hawaii National Guard State Family Program: Offers resources and assistance to service members, veterans, and their families​​.
• Medical Coverage for Hawaii National Guard Members: Compensation is provided for personal injuries arising out of duty performance​​.

Idaho Veteran Benefits

Idaho offers a comprehensive suite of benefits for veterans, ranging from housing and financial assistance to recreational opportunities and employment benefits. Here’s an overview:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Idaho has state veterans homes in Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Post Falls offering skilled nursing care. Eligibility includes honorable discharge, Idaho residency, and unemployability due to age, illness, or disability​​​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax: Military pay is exempt from state taxes if stationed out-of-state. Retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) income deductions are available, with specific amounts for single and joint filers based on age and disability status​​.
• Property Tax: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability or deemed unemployable by the VA can receive significant property tax reductions. There are also benefits for veterans with at least a 10% service-connected disability based on income​​.
• Grocery Tax Credit: Available to veterans aged 65 or older, or disabled and aged 62 or older, who may not be required to file an income tax return​​.
• Emergency Financial Assistance: A grant of up to $1,000 is available for wartime veterans facing extreme emergencies, with specific eligibility criteria​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment Preference: Veterans receive preference points for state employment, with additional points for disabled veterans. These points are also available to surviving spouses​​​​.
• Occupational Licenses: Expedited processing and fee waivers for military members and their families, with credit for military training towards licensing requirements​​​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Parks Veterans Pass: 100% service-connected disabled veterans enjoy free access and camping at state parks​​.
• Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Reduced fees for resident disabled veterans and nonresident disabled veterans with a VA disability rating of at least 40%​​.

Burial Benefits

• State Veterans Cemeteries: Located in Blackfoot and Boise, following National Veterans Cemetery eligibility requirements without the need for state residency​​​​.

Illinois Veteran Benefits

Illinois offers a variety of benefits for veterans, encompassing financial assistance, housing, education, employment, healthcare, and recreational opportunities. Here’s an overview of some key benefits available:

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax Exemption: Active duty, National Guard, reserve, retired pay, and SBP payments are not subject to state income tax.
• Bonus Payments: Illinois provides a $100 bonus for service during specific conflict periods, including Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, and the Global War on Terrorism, with certain eligibility criteria based on service and residency​​​​.

Housing Benefits

• Specially Adapted Housing Tax Exemption: Offers up to a $100,000 reduction in property value for taxation purposes for homes purchased or modified with the Specially Adapted Housing Grant​​.
• Veterans Homes: Illinois has several Veterans’ Homes providing care for veterans. Eligibility typically requires residency in Illinois, service during wartime, and other specific criteria​​.

Education Benefits

• Illinois Veterans’ Grant (IVG): Covers tuition and certain fees at Illinois state-supported colleges, universities, and community colleges for eligible veterans​​.
• Troops to Teachers: Offers resources and financial aid for veterans transitioning to careers in public school teaching​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive preference in state job hiring, with additional benefits for those with specific service medals or those transitioning from military to police or firefighter roles​​.
• State Jobs for Vets Program: Provides training and job placement assistance through the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES)​​.

Healthcare Benefits

• Illinois Warrior Assistance Program: Offers a 24-hour helpline for veterans dealing with PTSD or Traumatic Brain Injury symptoms​​.
• Veterans Care Program: Provides comprehensive health care coverage for uninsured Illinois veterans, subject to an income threshold​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Camping and Admission Fees: Exemptions for Illinois veterans at state parks, matching the time spent in service abroad or mobilized​​.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: No requirement for disabled veterans receiving 10% or greater service-connected compensation or total disability pension benefits​​.

Indiana Veteran Benefits

Indiana offers a range of benefits for veterans and their families, covering education, housing, employment, and more. Here’s a summary of some key benefits:

Education Benefits

• College Tuition for Children of Disabled Veterans: Free or discounted tuition at state schools for children of disabled veterans, Purple Heart Recipients, and former POW/MIA families, with varying discounts based on the veteran’s disability rating​​.
• Indiana National Guard Supplemental Grant: Provides free tuition at state schools for active drilling members of the Indiana National Guard​​.
• High School Diploma for Veterans: No cost high school diploma for war veterans who left school to join the military, applicable to WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam War veterans​​.
• Tuition and Fee Exemption: For children and spouses of deceased or disabled veterans, including 100% tuition and fees for children of Purple Heart recipients, with specific eligibility criteria​​.

Housing and Financial Assistance

• Property Tax Deductions: Deductions range from $12,480 to $24,960 for veterans depending on disability status, wartime service, and other criteria​​​​.
• Indiana Veterans Home: Offers nursing care, short-term rehabilitation services, and domiciliary care for honorably discharged veterans and their spouses​​.
• Indiana Military Family Relief Fund: Grants for service members and their families for needs such as education​​.

Employment and Business Opportunities

• Veterans’ Employment Services: Assistance in finding employment, including job postings, career counseling, resume writing, interview coaching, and job placement services​​.
• Peddlers, Vendors, or Hawkers License: Free for honorably discharged wartime veterans​​.
• Indiana Veteran Owned Small Business Program: Aims to procure three percent of state contracts with Hoosier veteran-owned businesses​​.

Health and Recreational Benefits

• VA Healthcare Facilities: Multiple facilities across the state providing a wide range of medical services​​.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Reduced fee licenses for service-connected disabled veterans​​.
• State Park Access: The Hoosier Golden Passport provides unlimited admission to state-owned parks and recreational areas for those eligible for a Disabled American Veteran license plate​​.

Special Programs and Licenses

• Disabled Hoosier Veteran License Plates: For veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 50%, addressing mobility issues​​.
• Veterans Memorial and State Soldiers Home Cemeteries: Free burial for veterans and their spouses with perpetual care in Madison and Lafayette, Indiana​​.

Iowa Veteran Benefits

Iowa offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to its veterans, covering financial assistance, education, housing, employment, and more. Here’s a summary of some key benefits:

Financial and Housing Assistance

• Injured Veterans Grant: Veterans seriously injured in the line of duty after September 11, 2001, may be eligible for up to $10,000.
• Homeownership Assistance: A $5,000 grant is available for service members who served after September 11, 2001, and purchased a home after March 10, 2005.
• Property Tax Exemption: Veterans can reduce their home’s assessed value for tax purposes by up to $1,852 for property tax purposes.
• Disabled Veteran’s Homestead Tax Credit: Offers 100% property tax exemption for 100% service-connected disabled veterans​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive preference in state, public works, county, city, and school jobs, with additional points added for VA disability or pension​​.

Educational Benefits

• War Orphans Educational Aid: Provides up to $11,844 per year for children of Iowa veterans killed in action post-September 11, 2001. Dependents of those killed in action prior are eligible for $600 per year, up to $3,000.
• National Guard Tuition Benefits: Guard members in good standing can receive up to $4,637 per semester for full-time enrollment, with partial refunds for mobilized members​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License: Veterans with at least a 0% VA disability rating can obtain a lifetime license for $7.00​​.

Burial Benefits

• Iowa Veterans Cemetery: Located near Van Meter, it provides a dignified burial place for veterans, their spouses, and dependent children. There’s no charge for honorably discharged veterans, while a $300 fee applies for spouses/dependents​​.

Additional Benefits

• Veterans Home: The Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown offers long-term care for veterans and their spouses, with costs based on need but ensuring no one is turned away due to inability to pay​​.
• Military Retirement Pay: Exempt from state income tax, including active duty, retired pay, and SBP payments​​.

Kansas Veteran Benefits

Kansas offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to its veterans, including education support, housing assistance, employment benefits, recreational licenses, and special vehicle license plates.

Education Benefits

• Kansas Hero’s Scholarship: Available for dependents and spouses of deceased and disabled public safety officers and military personnel, covering tuition and required fees at eligible Kansas postsecondary institutions​​.
• Operation Recognition: Honors WWII and Korean War veterans who left high school for service by awarding them honorary high school diplomas​​.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Kansas has veterans homes in Fort Dodge and Winfield, offering care for disabled, indigent veterans, or those able to pay for their care​​.
• Income Tax Benefits: Military retirement pay and SBP payments are exempt from state income tax​​.
• Homestead Act Refund: Disabled veterans can claim a refund for a portion of their real estate taxes​​.

Employment Benefits

• Hiring Preference: Veterans with campaign medals, a service-connected disability, or retired as an O-3 or below, as well as spouses of 100% disabled veterans, receive preference for state jobs​​.

Recreational Licenses and Discounts

• Free Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Available for National Guard Members and veterans with a 30% or greater disability​​.
• State Park Admission Discounts: Offered to Kansas Army and Air National Guard and disabled veterans​​.

Special Vehicle License Plates and Other DMV Benefits

• Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption: Kansas resident service members are exempt from motor vehicle tax on two vehicles​​.
• License Plates: Kansas has 20 license plate designs honoring service members, veterans, and family members, with special categories like Purple Heart and Disabled Veteran plates​​.

Health and Insurance Benefits

• Reimbursement of Health Insurance Premiums: For Kansas National Guard members ordered to State Active Duty for more than 30 days​​.
• State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): Available to Kansas National Guard Service members, offering several voluntary group life policies​​.

Kentucky Veteran Benefits

Kentucky offers a broad range of benefits for veterans, their dependents, and spouses, emphasizing education, housing, financial assistance, and employment.

Education Benefits

• Veteran and Dependent Tuition Waiver Program: Provides tuition waivers for dependents and spouses of veterans who meet specific service-related criteria. This benefit is applicable at Kentucky public educational institutions​​.
• Kentucky National Guard Tuition Award Program: Active members of the Kentucky National Guard are eligible for tuition awards for study at Kentucky educational institutions, covering full or part-time study until the first bachelor’s degree​​.
• High School Diploma Program: Kentucky awards high school diplomas to veterans who left high school to serve during WWII, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War, acknowledging their service and sacrifice​​.
• Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children: Aims to ease the educational transitions of military children by addressing issues related to enrollment, placement, graduation, and more​​.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veteran Housing Benefits: Kentucky has four long-term care facilities for veterans, with eligibility based on residency, discharge status, and the veteran’s ability to pay​​.
• Income Tax Benefits: Military income is tax-exempt, and military retirement pay up to a certain amount is tax-free. The Survivor Benefit Plan payments are also tax-exempt​​.
• Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Offers a significant deduction on the assessed value of the home for property tax purposes for totally disabled veterans​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Preference for State Jobs: Veterans receive preference points for state job applications, which varies by the nature of their discharge and disability status​​.

Recreation Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses, and State Park Discounts: Disabled veterans and Kentucky resident veterans home on leave can benefit from discounted licenses and park admissions​​.

Burial and Memorial Benefits

• Kentucky Veterans Cemeteries: Offers burial services for Kentucky resident veterans, spouses, and dependent children without any fees. Kentucky has several veterans cemeteries across the state​​.

Louisiana Veteran Benefits

Louisiana offers a wide array of benefits for its veterans, ranging from educational assistance and housing benefits to financial incentives and employment services.

Educational Benefits

• Educational Benefits for Children, Spouses, and Surviving Spouses of Veterans: This includes tuition waivers for eligible dependents of veterans who have died in service, from service-connected disabilities, or are rated 90% or more service-connected disabled. Eligibility requirements vary, including residency and age limits for dependents​​.
• Louisiana State Tuition Exemption Program (STEP): Provides tuition exemptions at state-supported educational institutions for Louisiana National Guard members under certain conditions​​.
• Residency for Tuition Purposes: Service members, veterans, and their dependents stationed or residing in Louisiana are granted residency status for tuition purposes at public colleges and universities​​.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Louisiana operates five veterans homes across the state for veterans who are residents of Louisiana and have an other-than-dishonorable discharge. Eligibility for spouses and Gold Star parents is also provided under specific conditions​​.
• Income Tax Benefits: Active duty pay up to $30,000 is exempt if stationed out of state, with additional exemptions for retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments. Property tax exemptions for disabled veterans were approved in November 2022, with the exemption amount correlating with disability percentage​​.
• Military Family Assistance Fund: Offers financial aid to Louisiana veterans and their families facing financial hardships, with the possibility to receive up to $10,000 based on eligibility and available funding​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment Preference: Veterans receive a 5- to 10-point preference for Louisiana state and city civil service jobs. This benefit extends to spouses of veterans who are rated unemployable by the Department of Veterans Affairs, among others​​.
• Veterans’ Employment and Training Services: Offers job assistance, training referrals, and placement services, with priority given to veterans and eligible spouses for job training programs​​.

Recreation Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans with a service-connected permanent disability rated 50% or higher are eligible for free licenses. Active-duty military and their dependents also qualify for licenses at the resident rate​​.
• State Park Admission: Discounts or free admissions are available for disabled veterans and active-duty military personnel​​.

Burial Benefits

• Veterans Cemeteries: Louisiana has four veterans cemeteries that offer burial services for qualifying veterans, their spouses, and dependent children at no charge for the veteran and a small fee for dependents​​.

Maine Veteran Benefits

Maine offers a comprehensive array of benefits for veterans, covering everything from housing and education to employment and recreation.

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Maine has six veterans homes located in Augusta, Bangor, Caribou, Machias, Scarborough, and South Paris. Eligibility extends to honorably discharged Maine veterans, their spouses, widows, widowers, and Gold Star parents.
• Home Loans: The Maine State Housing Authority’s Salute Home Again program provides a 0.5% discount on mortgages for active-duty personnel, veterans, and military retirees​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax: Military pay earned out of state is exempt from state taxes, as are military retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan payments​​.
• Property Tax Exemption: Eligible veterans can receive a property tax exemption of $6,000 to $50,000, based on certain criteria such as age, disability, and service connection​​.
• Emergency Financial Assistance: Veterans facing emergency financial situations may qualify for assistance up to $2,000​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veteran Employment Preference: Veterans receive preference in state employment, including an automatic interview for qualifying applicants. Maine also offers interview guarantees to Gold Star spouses​​​​.
• Professional Licensing Initiative: Maine expedites the professional licensing process for service members, veterans, and their spouses, acknowledging the skills and experience gained through military service​​.

Educational Benefits

• Dependents Educational Benefits: Maine provides a 100% tuition waiver at state schools for dependents of veterans who meet specific service and disability criteria​​.
• National Guard Tuition Assistance: Members of the Maine National Guard are eligible for a 100% tuition waiver at University of Maine System schools​​.
• In-State Tuition: Current and former military members, regardless of their GI Bill benefits status, and their dependents using the GI Bill, are eligible for in-state tuition rates at University of Maine System schools​​.

Recreation Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more can receive free licenses for fishing, trapping, and hunting​​.
• State Park Admission: Maine veterans with an other-than-dishonorable discharge, 100% disabled veterans, and active-duty members and their dependents are eligible for free or discounted admission to state parks​​.

Veteran Cemeteries

• Maine operates four veterans cemeteries located in Caribou, Augusta (two), and Springvale, offering free burial for veterans and their dependents​​.

Maryland Veteran Benefits

Maryland offers a variety of benefits for veterans, ranging from housing and financial assistance to education, employment, and recreational opportunities.

Housing and Financial Assistance

• Veterans Home: The Charlotte Hall Veterans Home caters to Maryland resident veterans who are 62 years and older or are disabled and unable to work. Costs are reduced through U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs per diem payments​​.
• Property Tax Exemption: Permanent and totally disabled veterans from service-connected causes are exempt from property tax on their primary residence. This benefit also extends to certain surviving spouses​​.
• Income Tax Benefits: Service members who are Maryland residents may exempt up to $15,000 of military pay if earned while serving overseas, under certain conditions. Retired military pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments have exclusions, which increase after the age of 55​​​​.

Education Benefits

• State Tuition Waiver: Maryland provides tuition waivers for National Guard members for undergraduate or graduate courses at state-supported colleges and universities, excluding the University of Maryland Global Campus​​.
• Scholarships: The Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship & Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program, and the Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship Program, offer financial aid for veterans and their family members attending public institutions within the University System of Maryland​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment Veterans Preference: Veterans receive a preference in state employment, with a credit of 10 points added to selection tests, and additional points for those with a service-connected disability​​.
• Veteran-Owned Small Business Loan Program: Maryland offers no-interest loans to veteran entrepreneurs ranging from $1,000-$50,000 to help cover business expenses​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans are eligible for free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses. Maryland residents on active duty and home on leave do not need to purchase a license, and non-residents stationed in Maryland can buy at the resident rate​​.
• State Parks: Entrance charges to Maryland state parks are waived for all veterans and active-duty personnel​​.

Massachusetts Veteran Benefits

Massachusetts provides a range of benefits for its veterans, encompassing housing, financial, educational, employment, and recreational services:

Housing Benefits

• Soldiers’ Homes: Veterans have access to soldiers’ homes in Holyoke and Chelsea, offering residential and long-term care​​.
• Homeless and Transitional Housing: The state funds nonprofit organizations that offer housing services to eligible veterans, including emergency shelters and single-room occupancy quarters across various locations​​.

Financial Benefits

• Tax Exemptions: Veterans may be eligible for property tax exemptions ranging from $400 to $1,500, with specific eligibility criteria like a minimum 10% disability rating from the VA​​​​. Additionally, motor vehicle sales and excise tax exemptions are available for disabled veterans under certain conditions​​.
• Annuities: A $2,000 annual annuity is provided to 100% disabled veterans, their spouses, Gold Star Parents, and un-remarried spouses​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment Preference: Veterans receive preference in civil service exams, including additional points for disabled veterans and certain priority for promotional exams and appointments​​.

Educational Benefits

• Tuition Waivers: Veterans are eligible for tuition waivers for state-supported courses at public colleges or universities. The Massachusetts National Guard Education Assistance Program offers a 100% tuition and fee waiver for members attending state colleges, universities, or community colleges​​​​.
• Veterans Upward Bound Program: Free pre-college programs are available at UMass Boston and Suffolk University, providing veterans with college and career awareness and academic skills required for higher education​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Licenses and State Park Access: Active-duty, non-resident military personnel stationed in Massachusetts are eligible for hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates. Also, parking fees at state parks are waived for vehicles bearing disabled veteran license plates from any state​​.

Veterans’ Bonuses

Massachusetts offers bonuses for veterans who served during specific periods, including the Persian Gulf War, Vietnam Conflict, Korean War, and World War II, with varying bonus amounts based on service details and location​​.

Chapter 115 Benefits

The Chapter 115 Benefits Program provides financial aid to veterans and their dependents who have limited income, covering daily living expenses, medical costs, rent assistance, and more​​​​.

Michigan Veteran Benefits

Michigan offers a variety of benefits to its veterans, ranging from educational assistance and employment opportunities to housing benefits and financial support. Here’s a summary of some key benefits:

Education Benefits

• Children of Veterans Tuition Grant: Offers tuition assistance to children of certain deceased or disabled veterans.
• Michigan National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program: Provides tuition assistance to members of the Michigan National Guard.
• VetSuccess on Campus: A program providing on-campus vocational rehabilitation and counseling services to veterans.

Employment Benefits

• Veteran Employment Services: Includes occupational licensing for military experience, apprenticeships, and special unemployment compensation.
• State Employment Hiring Preferences: Gives hiring preferences to veterans and their spouses for state employment.
• Occupational Licensing: Military experience can count towards qualifications for certain occupational licenses.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Michigan has veterans homes in Marquette and Grand Rapids offering comprehensive care.
• Income Tax: Active duty and retired pay are not taxed.
• Property Tax Waiver: Available for 100% disabled veterans or those rated 100% due to unemployability.
• Emergency Assistance: Offers support for temporary financial issues.

Additional Benefits

• Disabled Veteran Vehicle Registration: Free registration for one vehicle for 100% disabled veterans.
• Veteran License Plates and Driver’s License Designation: Special designations and plates for veterans.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Free or discounted for eligible veterans.
• Free State Park Access: For Medal of Honor recipients, 100% disabled veterans, and ex-POWs.
• Veteran Treatment Courts: Support for veterans involved with the legal system.
• Veterans’ Burial Expenses: Financial assistance for burial expenses for eligible veterans and spouses.

Minnesota Veteran Benefits

Minnesota offers a wide range of benefits for veterans, covering education, employment, health, housing, and financial support, among other areas.

Education Benefits

• Minnesota GI Bill: Offers up to $3,000 per academic year for eligible veterans, certain non-veterans, spouses, surviving spouses, and children of permanently and totally disabled veterans or of those who died due to service-connected conditions. This benefit is aimed at supporting higher education and training​​​​​​.
• Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit: Provides free tuition for surviving spouses and dependents of veterans who died on active duty or as a result of service-connected conditions, allowing them to attend state-supported and some private higher education institutions in Minnesota. Additionally, they receive $750 per year for fees, books, supplies, and room/board​​​​.

Employment Benefits

Minnesota supports veteran employment through various initiatives, including:

• Veterans Preference Act: Gives veterans a preference in hiring and promotion for public employment and provides protection against unfair dismissals​​.
• WorkForce Centers Veteran Preference: Offers priority services at Minnesota WorkForce Centers, including assistance with resumes, job search guidance, and referrals to veteran-specific services​​.

Health & Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Minnesota operates veterans homes in Fergus Falls, Hastings, Luverne, Minneapolis, and Silver Bay, providing a range of services from skilled nursing care to rehabilitation services​​​​.
• Dental and Vision Care: Eligible veterans can receive up to $1,000 of free dental care and up to $400 of free vision care annually, based on income​​.

Financial Support

• Income Taxes: Military pay, retirement pay, and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are exempt from state income tax​​.
• Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Offers a reduction in the assessed value of their home for disabled veterans with a 70% or greater VA disability​​.
• Short-Term Financial Assistance: Provides temporary financial aid for housing, utilities, and other expenses for veterans facing financial hardships​​.

Additional Benefits

• Recreational Benefits: Active-duty personnel, disabled veterans, and Purple Heart recipients enjoy free admission to Minnesota state parks. There are also special provisions for hunting and fishing licenses for veterans and active-duty military members​​.
• Veterans Cemeteries: Minnesota has state veterans cemeteries where eligible veterans can be interred free of charge, with dependents possibly incurring a small fee​​.

Mississippi Veteran Benefits

Mississippi offers a variety of benefits for veterans, from educational assistance to tax exemptions and healthcare services. Here are some of the key benefits available:

Educational Benefits

• In-State Tuition: Veterans and those entitled to education benefits under Title 38, including survivors and dependents, may qualify for in-state tuition rates, regardless of their state of residence​​​​.
• Education for POW/MIA Children: Children of those reported as missing in action or prisoners of war may qualify for eight semesters of education benefits from the State of Mississippi​​.
• Mississippi National Guard Scholarships: Some members of the Mississippi National Guard may qualify for free tuition at accredited institutions, requiring Mississippi residency​​.
• High School Diploma Program: Veterans of WWII, the Korean Conflict, and Vietnam who couldn’t complete high school due to military service may be awarded an honorary diploma​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment: Veterans receive preference points for state employment, with additional points for disabled veterans​​​​.
• Retirement Credit: Veterans with wartime service may be entitled to retirement credit under the Mississippi State Public Employees Retirement System​​.

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Mississippi operates four veterans’ homes providing skilled care, with eligibility requirements including Mississippi residency and qualifying military service​​​​.
• Home Purchase Board: Offers low-interest mortgage loans up to $400,000 for eligible veterans to purchase a home, with certain conditions​​​​.

Financial Benefits

• Tax Exemptions: Military retirement pay is exempt from state income tax. Additionally, veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are exempt from all ad valorem taxes on their homestead property​​.
• Privilege Tax: Certain disabled veterans are exempt from the privilege tax for specified businesses​​.

Additional Benefits

• Driver’s License/ID and Vehicle License Plates: Veterans can obtain a “veteran” designation on their driver’s licenses and access military-themed license plates​​​​.
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Veterans with a 100% VA disability rating are eligible for free hunting and fishing licenses​​.
• Burial Benefits: Mississippi operates two state veterans cemeteries, providing a range of burial services for veterans and eligible family members​​.

Missouri Veteran Benefits

Missouri offers a range of benefits for veterans, covering areas such as education, employment, housing, and healthcare, among others. Here’s an overview of some key benefits available to veterans in Missouri:

Educational Benefits

• Missouri Returning Heroes Act: This act limits undergraduate tuition at any state college to no more than $50 per credit hour for Missouri residents with other than dishonorable discharge and who served in a combat zone after Sept. 11, 2001​​.
• War Veteran’s Survivor Grant Program: Available to children and spouses of veterans whose deaths or injuries were a result of combat action, or were attributed to an illness contracted while serving in combat action, or who became 80% disabled as a result of injuries or accidents sustained in combat action since Sept. 11, 2001​​.
• Educational Assistance: Missouri provides several forms of educational assistance, including in-state tuition benefits for service members, veterans, and their families, as well as specific programs for children of POWs and MIAs and scholarships for active members of the Missouri National Guard​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment Preference: Veterans receive a five-point preference when testing for any state employment position, with ten points for service-connected disabled veterans. Spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify​​.
• Show-Me Heroes Program: Offers on-the-job training support by reimbursing businesses for 50% of the wages of workers hired through the program, for up to 1040 hours of OJT​​.
• Professional License Qualifications: Missouri considers military education, training, or service as valid qualifications for professional licensing or certification​​.

Housing and Financial Assistance

• Missouri Veterans Homes: There are seven veterans homes across Missouri, providing skilled nursing care for veterans who require it and meet eligibility criteria​​.
• Tax Benefits: Missouri offers various tax benefits for veterans, including income tax exemptions for active duty and reserve pay, as well as property tax credits for 100% VA disabled veterans​​.
• Missouri FIRST Program: Supports veteran-owned small businesses through low-interest loans, aiming to grow and expand economic opportunities​​.

Additional Benefits

• Driver and Vehicle Licenses: Veterans can obtain a “veteran” designation on their driver’s licenses and state IDs and access various military-themed license plates​​.
• Recreational Benefits: Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability of 60% or more, as well as active duty members and their families stationed in Missouri, can receive hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates or even for free in certain conditions​​.

Montana Veteran Benefits

Montana offers a wide array of benefits for veterans, covering everything from housing and financial assistance to education and employment support. Here’s a summary of some key benefits available to veterans in Montana:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Montana operates veterans homes in Columbia Falls and Glendive for honorably discharged veterans requiring skilled care. Eligibility extends to spouses on a space-available basis​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax Exemptions: Active-duty and Reserve/Guard pay is exempt from state income tax, and a portion of military retirement pay is also tax-exempt, depending on gross income and other conditions​​.
• Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Provides property tax exemptions for 100% disabled veterans under certain income limits, with eligibility also extending to unmarried surviving spouses​​.
• Montana Military Family Relief Fund: Offers grants up to $2,000 for family members of Montana National Guard members or reservists under specific service conditions​​.

Education Benefits

• Tuition Waivers: Tuition waivers are available for honorably discharged veterans and dependents under specific conditions, including service in combat zones and for those who received the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, or Iraq Campaign Medal​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veteran Hiring Preference: Veterans receive a preference in public employment, with additional points added for disabled veterans and some spouses or un-remarried surviving spouses​​​​.
• Commercial Driver’s License Military Waiver: Allows eligible active-duty members and veterans to waive the skills test portion of the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) based on their military driving experience​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Offers discounted licenses for disabled veterans and allows active-duty non-residents and their families to purchase licenses at resident rates​​.
• State Park Admission: Discounts are available for Montana resident veterans on campsites and amenities at state parks​​.

Additional Veteran Benefits

• Vehicle Registration for Veterans: Qualifying veterans and their un-remarried surviving spouses may be exempt from registration fees for up to two non-commercial vehicles under specific criteria, including being a Purple Heart recipient or having a 100% disability rating due to military service​​.
• License Plates and Parking Benefits: Montana provides several specialized license plates for qualifying veterans, each offering specific benefits, such as a one-time plate production fee and no annual renewal fee for certain plates​​.

Nebraska Veteran Benefits

Nebraska offers a comprehensive suite of benefits for veterans, ranging from housing assistance and financial support to educational benefits and employment services. Here’s an overview of key benefits available to veterans in Nebraska:

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Nebraska operates veterans homes in Bellevue, Kearney, Norfolk, and Scottsbluff, offering care for veterans and their spouses under certain eligibility requirements​​.
• Retired Military Pay: Retirement pay is tax-exempt in Nebraska, though SBP payments are taxable​​.
• Nebraska Veterans’ Aid Fund: Provides temporary emergency aid for unforeseen emergencies disrupting normal living conditions, available for food, fuel, shelter, and other needs​​.
• Nebraska Homestead Exemption: Offers property tax reduction for totally disabled veterans and their unmarried surviving spouses​​.
• Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption: Provides a tax exemption for one motor vehicle owned and used for personal transportation by a disabled or blind veteran​​.

Educational Benefits

• Tuition Waiver: Available for eligible children of veterans, covering tuition at the University of Nebraska campuses, Nebraska state colleges, and Nebraska community colleges​​​​.
• Nebraska Reservist Tuition Credit Program: Offers a 50% tuition credit for active Selected Reserve members at approved colleges​​.
• Operation Recognition: Awards high school diplomas to qualifying wartime veterans who left high school to serve and did not graduate due to their military service​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment Veterans Preference: Grants an additional 5% to the score on employment testing for honorably discharged veterans, with another 5% for disabled veterans. This benefit extends to spouses of active duty members, those separated within 180 days, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans​​​​.
• Occupational Licenses: Veterans, active duty members, and their families may receive occupational licenses based on military experience, with expedited and temporary license approvals​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses are available for Nebraska resident veterans who are at least 50% disabled. Veterans aged 64 and older can acquire licenses for $5, and active duty members stationed in Nebraska can purchase licenses at the resident rate​​.

Veteran Cemetery

• Nebraska Veterans Cemetery: Located in Alliance, offers burial for veterans and their dependents at no charge, with eligibility requirements mirroring those for federal veterans cemeteries​​.

Nevada Veteran Benefits

Nevada provides a variety of benefits to veterans, ranging from housing and educational assistance to employment services and recreational privileges. Here’s a concise overview:

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Nevada operates veterans homes in Boulder City and Sparks, offering care for veterans, their spouses, and gold star parents​​.
• Veterans Tax Exemption: An annual tax exemption is available for veterans with wartime service, which can be applied to vehicle privilege tax or real property tax​​.
• Disabled Veteran Tax Exemption: Provides a property tax exemption for honorably discharged residents with a service-connected disability of 60% or more​​.

Education Benefits

• Non-Resident Tuition Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans are exempt from non-resident tuition rates if they matriculate within two years of discharge​​.
• Nevada National Guard Fee Waiver: Active members of the Nevada National Guard, their dependent children, and qualifying spouses are eligible for a registration fee waiver for higher education​​.

Employment Benefits

• Nevada State Hiring Preference for Veterans: Veterans, members of the Nevada Guard, and surviving spouses receive preference points added to state employment exams​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting & Fishing License: Discounted licenses are available for veterans with a service-connected disability of 50% or more, and active-duty members stationed in Nevada can acquire these licenses at resident rates​​.
• State Park Admission: Honorably discharged Nevada veterans with a permanent disability of 10% or more receive a pass for free entrance to all state parks​​.

Veteran Cemeteries

• Nevada State Veterans Cemeteries: Located in Fernley and Boulder City, these cemeteries offer free plots and services for veterans, with a small fee for spouse or dependent burials​​.

New Hampshire Veteran Benefits

New Hampshire offers a variety of benefits to veterans, including housing assistance, financial support, education benefits, employment services, and recreational opportunities.

Housing and Financial Assistance

• New Hampshire Veterans Home: Provides care for honorably discharged veterans from New Hampshire with at least 90 days of wartime service. The facility is located in Tilton and has specific medical and asset requirements for admission​​​​.
• Financial Bonuses: New Hampshire offers $100 bonuses for eligible veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, with specific residency and service requirements​​​​.
• Property Tax Exemption: Various property tax exemptions are available for wartime veterans, their spouses, and widows, with the possibility of cities and towns adopting a higher tax credit. There are also tax credits and exemptions specifically for totally and permanently disabled veterans​​​​.

Education and Employment

• Tuition Assistance: Active members of the New Hampshire National Guard, regardless of residence, can apply for tuition waivers at public colleges within the state, with certain restrictions​​.
• Employment Services: Veterans receive a 5-point preference for state jobs, increasing to 10 points for those with a disability rating of 10% or more. Spouses of 100% P&T disabled veterans are also eligible for this benefit​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Parks and Fishing Licenses: Veterans with any VA disability rating can access New Hampshire state parks without a fee. Additionally, NH resident veterans who are VA permanently and totally disabled can obtain a free lifetime hunting & fishing license​​​​.

Additional Support Services

• Veterans Cemetery: Eligible veterans can be interred at the NH State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, without needing to be a NH resident. A fee is charged for the burial of spouses or dependents​​.
• License Fee Waivers and Tax Credits: Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be exempt from certain license fees, and there are several tax credits available to veterans for property tax relief​​.

New Jersey Veteran Benefits

New Jersey offers a range of benefits to its veterans, from housing assistance and financial support to education, employment services, and recreational opportunities. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the benefits available to veterans in the Garden State:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Memorial Homes: New Jersey operates veterans’ homes in Menlo Park, Paramus, and Vineland, offering care to honorably discharged wartime veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents​​.
• Veterans Haven: A transitional housing program for homeless veterans with facilities in Glen Gardner and Winslow, focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax: Active-duty income is not subject to state taxes under certain conditions. Retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments are tax-free​​.
• Veteran Income Tax Deduction: A one-time $6,000 tax deduction for honorably discharged veterans in the year they are discharged from active duty​​.
• Property Tax Benefits: Various deductions and exemptions are available, including an annual $250 deduction for veterans who served in a combat zone and total exemption for permanently and totally disabled war veterans​​.
• Catastrophic Entitlement: Monthly payment of $150 for permanently and totally disabled wartime veterans with specific disabilities​​.

Education Benefits

• War Orphans Tuition Assistance: $500 annually for children of veterans who died in service or from service-connected disabilities​​.
• POW/MIA Tuition Benefit Program: Free undergraduate tuition for children of POWs or MIAs​​.
• Veterans Tuition Credit Program: Partial reimbursement for tuition costs for eligible veterans​​.

Employment Benefits

• Civil Service Preference: Veterans receive preference when applying for New Jersey state jobs, with top priority given to disabled veterans​​.
• CDL License Waiver: Veterans with military commercial drivers licenses may be exempt from the behind-the-wheel portion of the CDL exam​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Free or discounted licenses for disabled veterans and National Guard members​​.
• State Park Admission: Discounts and free entry for veterans with disabilities and active New Jersey National Guard personnel​​.

Veteran Cemeteries

• Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery: Offers free interment for NJ resident veterans, their spouses, and dependent children in Wrightstown​​.

New Mexico Veteran Benefits

New Mexico offers a variety of benefits to veterans, including financial exemptions, educational scholarships, employment opportunities, housing assistance, and recreational privileges. Here’s a summary of key benefits:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Located in Truth or Consequences, offering services to honorably discharged veterans, their spouses, and providing preference to New Mexico residents​​​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax Exemptions: Active duty military pay is exempt from state taxes, and a portion of military retirement pay is tax-exempt up to $30,000 per year.
• Property Tax Exemptions: Disabled veterans rated 100% service-connected by the VA may qualify for a complete waiver on property tax for their primary residence​​​​.
• Vehicle Registration Fees and Excise Tax Exemptions: Qualifying veterans can receive reduced vehicle registration fees and exemptions from excise taxes on vehicle purchases​​.

Educational Benefits

• Tuition Assistance: Various scholarships are available, including for Vietnam veterans, wartime veterans, and children of deceased veterans, offering tuition waivers and financial assistance for education at state-supported colleges​​​​.
• In-State Tuition: Qualifying veterans, spouses, and dependents are eligible for in-state tuition rates without having to wait to establish residency​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Job Hiring Preference: Veterans receive a 5-point preference, and those with a service-connected disability receive a 10-point preference for state jobs​​​​.
• Business Tax Credit: New Mexico offers a tax credit for businesses hiring recently returned veterans​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Park & Museum Admission: Veterans with a 50% or higher service-connected disability rating can receive a free day-use pass and camping benefits. All veterans receive free admission to state parks and museums on Veterans Day​​​​.
• Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans can qualify for free or reduced-fee hunting and fishing licenses​​.

Additional Support

• Veteran Cemeteries: New Mexico operates three state veterans cemeteries, open to honorably discharged veterans and their spouses​​.
• License Plates: Special military license plates are available, including for recipients of specific medals, Purple Heart awardees, and disabled veterans​​.

New York Veteran Benefits

New York offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to veterans, including financial assistance, educational opportunities, housing programs, and recreational privileges.

Housing Benefits

• Access to Home for Heroes: Financial assistance to make homes accessible for veterans with disabilities.
• Homes for Veterans Program: Offers fixed-rate mortgages with interest rates lower than standard SONYMA mortgages, plus down payment assistance for veterans​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax: Active-duty military pay is tax-free under specific conditions, and retired pay and SBP payments are also tax-free in New York. Property tax exemptions are available for veterans based on their military service, with additional benefits for service-connected disabilities​​.
• Spouse Unemployment Benefits: Available for military spouses who quit their jobs due to their spouse’s military transfer​​.

Education Benefits

• Veterans Tuition Awards: For full or part-time study at eligible schools for honorably discharged New York resident wartime veterans.
• Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans: Offers up to $450 per year to dependents of veterans who served in wartime or during a national emergency and either died as a result of service or have a 40% or higher VA disability rating​​.

Employment Benefits

• Civil Service Credit Preference: Additional credit in civil service exams for veterans and disabled veterans.
• Veterans with Disabilities Employment Program (55-c): Allows veterans with a VA disability rating of at least 20% to apply for state jobs without an exam​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting Licenses & Permits for Disabled Veterans: Low-cost licenses for NY resident veterans with a 40% or greater disability rating.
• State Park Admission for Disabled Veterans: Wartime veterans with a 40% or greater disability are eligible for the Lifetime Liberty Pass, which provides free vehicle entry to state parks and other benefits​​.

North Carolina Veteran Benefits

Veterans in North Carolina have access to a range of benefits, including those related to education, employment, housing, and more. Here’s a summary of some key benefits:

Education Benefits

• Scholarships for Children of Wartime Veterans: Offers financial assistance for up to eight academic semesters to children of certain categories of deceased, disabled, or combat veterans, provided the veteran was a North Carolina resident when active service began​​.
• Tuition Benefits for Out-Of-State GI Bill Users: Qualifying spouses and children of active-duty service members may be eligible for in-state tuition rates without meeting the 12-month residency requirement if the student uses the GI Bill​​.

Employment Benefits

• Government Hiring Preference for Veterans: Veterans receive preference in employment within state government roles, acknowledging their service and the sacrifices made​​.
• Professional Licensing Credit for Military Experience: Veterans and military spouses can receive credit towards state licensing in various professions based on military training and experience​​.

Housing Benefits

• Home Advantage Mortgage Program: Offers down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers, including veterans, which can be combined with a Mortgage Credit Certificate to lower federal income taxes​​.
• Veterans’ Assisted Care Homes and Nursing Homes: Available for honorably discharged veterans who meet certain eligibility criteria, with facilities located in Fayetteville, Salisbury, Black Mountain, and Kinston​​.

Financial Benefits

• Retirement Income Tax Breaks for Veterans: Service members with creditable service by August 12, 1989, may be exempt from state income tax on military retirement pay​​.
• Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exclusion: Offers a property tax break for primary residences to honorably discharged veterans with VA-rated disabilities​​.

Additional Benefits

• Legal Assistance for Veteran Claims: Provided by the North Carolina Central University School of Law’s Veterans Law Clinic, offering help with filing VA claims and appeals​​.
• State Veteran Cemeteries: Offers burial benefits in six state-run cemeteries for qualifying veterans and their families​​.
• License Plates and IDs: Free or reduced-cost license plates for qualifying veterans, including plates for disabled veterans at no cost​​.

North Dakota Veteran Benefits

Veterans in North Dakota have access to a variety of state benefits, ranging from financial aids to recreational privileges. Here’s an overview of some of the key benefits available:

Financial Benefits

• Income Taxes: Both active-duty and reservist pay for North Dakota residents is tax-free starting from the 2023 tax year. Retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are also tax-free​​.
• Veterans Aid Fund: Offers loans up to $5,000 for veterans and surviving spouses who haven’t remarried​​.
• Property Tax Deduction: Veterans with a VA disability rating of at least 50% are eligible for property tax deductions, with the deduction amount increasing with higher disability percentages​​.

Employment and Education

• Veterans Preference: In state employment, veterans are given preference, with a 5-point preference for veterans and a 10-point preference for disabled veterans​​.
• Educational Training (VET): A free program for honorably discharged North Dakota veterans preparing for certification programs or college degrees​​.
• Tuition Waivers: Dependents of veterans who were killed in action or died from service-connected causes, or were totally disabled due to service-connected causes, can attend North Dakota state schools without paying tuition or fees​​.

Recreational Benefits

• State Park Fees: Veterans with a 50% or greater VA disability and former POWs are eligible for a free annual permit to ND state parks. Other veterans with service-related disabilities can receive an annual permit for $20​​.
• Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Disabled veterans can obtain reduced cost licenses, and active-duty North Dakota residents can hunt and fish without a license while on leave​​​​.

Housing and Transportation

• Veterans Home: Located in Lisbon, it’s available for honorably discharged North Dakota veterans and their spouses, with costs based on income​​.
• Travel for VA Appointments: County Veteran Service Offices offer transport for veterans to medical facilities in Fargo and Ft. Meade, SD, free of charge​​.

Additional Supports

• Service Dogs: Grants are available for PTSD service dogs for veterans residing in North Dakota​​.
• License Plates: A variety of veteran-designated license plates are available, offering benefits such as parking privileges in handicap spots​​.

Tax Exemptions and Credits

• Property Tax Credit: For veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater, offering significant reductions based on the level of disability​​.
• Income Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: Allows nonresident military spouses to be exempt from North Dakota state taxes under specific conditions​​.

Ohio Veteran Benefits

Ohio offers a range of benefits for veterans, encompassing financial support, educational opportunities, employment assistance, and recreational activities. Here are some highlights:

Financial Benefits

• Veterans Bonus Program: Honorable service of more than 90 days after October 7, 2001, may qualify for a bonus, with specifics depending on the location and duration of service​​.
• Income Tax Exemptions: Active-duty pay is exempt if stationed out-of-state, and retirement and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are tax-free​​.
• Homestead Exemption: Expanded for veterans rated 100% disabled by the VA, with rates varying by location​​.
• Military Injury Relief Fund: Offers a one-time, tax-exempt payment to service members injured or diagnosed with PTSD after October 7, 2001​​.

Employment Benefits

• State Employment: Veterans receive additional credit on Ohio civil service exams, enhancing their employment opportunities within state agencies​​.
• License Fee Waivers and Fast Tracks: Ohio facilitates the transition into civilian careers by waiving certain licensure fees for veterans and their spouses and recognizing military training and experience towards professional state licenses or certifications​​.

Education Benefits

• National Guard Scholarship Program: Provides up to 96 educational credits for tuition assistance at Ohio institutions for eligible National Guard members​​.
• Ohio War Orphans Scholarship: Offers tuition assistance for children of deceased or severely disabled Ohio veterans​​.
• College Credit for Military Experience: Ohio colleges are required to consider military training and experience for appropriate credit and credentialing​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Active-duty residents on leave and non-resident active-duty members stationed in Ohio are eligible for free or resident-rate licenses​​.
• Camping Discounts: Active military and veterans receive a discount on state park accommodations, with certain conditions allowing for free access​​.

Housing Assistance

• Veterans Homes: Facilities in Georgetown and Sandusky offer care for eligible veterans, with admissions based on factors including Ohio residency, honorable discharge, and the inability to earn a living due to disabilities​​.
• Ohio Heroes Home Loan Program: Provides mortgage loan interest rate discounts to eligible veterans, active duty members, Guard/Reserve members, and surviving spouses​​.

Additional Supports

• Ohio High School Diploma Program for War Veterans: Offers diplomas to WWII, Korean War, or Vietnam War veterans who left high school to serve​​.

Oklahoma Veteran Benefits

Oklahoma offers a wide range of benefits to its veterans, encompassing housing, education, financial, employment, and recreational supports:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Oklahoma has several state veterans homes providing nursing care, with priority given to certain wartime veterans. Eligibility includes needing nursing care and eligibility for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs per diem payments​​​​.

Financial Benefits

• Property Tax Exemption: Offers a total exemption for 100% disabled veterans​​​​.
• Income and Sales Tax Exemption: Military pay is exempt from state income tax, and 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans are exempt from state sales tax​​​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Preference for State Jobs: Veterans, disabled war veterans, and their un-remarried surviving spouses receive preference in state employment​​​​.

Education Benefits

• Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance: Provides tuition waivers for service members at all Oklahoma public colleges and universities, covering all mandatory fees and academic service fees​​​​.
• College Credit for Military Service: Academic credit is awarded for applicable military training and experience​​.
• Heroes Promise: Offers scholarships for children of service members killed in the line of duty, covering tuition at Oklahoma public colleges or universities​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Discounted lifetime licenses are available for veterans with at least a 60% VA disability rating. All honorably discharged Oklahoma resident veterans get free admission to state-owned parks and museums​​.

Oregon Veteran Benefits

Oregon offers a comprehensive range of benefits to veterans, covering aspects like housing, education, employment, and recreational activities:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Oregon operates two veterans homes in The Dalles and Lebanon, available to veterans with any discharge other than dishonorable, their spouses, and Gold Star parents​​​​.
• Home Loan Program: The state provides its own veterans home loan program, offering fixed-rate financing for eligible veterans for the purchase of single-family residences​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax Exemptions: Active-duty pay earned outside Oregon and up to $6,000 of pay earned within the state is exempt from state taxes​​.
• Property Tax Exemption: Veterans with a VA disability rating of 40% or more may qualify for property tax exemptions​​​​.
• Emergency Financial Assistance: Available for veterans and their immediate family facing valid emergencies​​.

Employment Benefits

• Employment Preference: Veterans receive additional points on tests for state employment, enhancing their job prospects within state agencies​​​​.
• Professional Licensing: Military training or experience may count towards certain professional licensure requirements in Oregon, facilitating quicker entry into civilian employment for veterans​​.

Education Benefits

• College Credit for Military Training: Veterans can receive college credit for their military experience and training, with all Oregon universities and community colleges following the American Council on Education’s guidelines​​.
• Tuition Assistance: The Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance program provides funding for in-state tuition rates at Oregon’s postsecondary institutions for eligible members​​.
• Dependent Tuition Waiver: Dependents of certain veterans are eligible for tuition waivers at Oregon public universities or colleges for bachelor’s or master’s degrees​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans with a VA disability rating of 25% or more, as well as active-duty military members, are eligible for free or discounted licenses​​​​.
• State Parks Access: Service-connected disabled veterans and active-duty military members receive free parking and camping at state parks​​.

Pennsylvania Veteran Benefits

Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive array of benefits to its veterans, spanning across education, employment, housing, and more. Here’s an overview based on the information gathered:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Six homes across the state provide care for veterans and their spouses, with eligibility based on the ability to pay​​​​.
• Disabled Veteran Real Estate Tax Exemption: Offers property tax exemption for veterans with 100% service-connected disabilities and wartime service​​.

Education Benefits

• Educational Gratuity for Dependents: Offers up to $500 per term for children of veterans who are disabled or deceased due to service, with a limit of eight semesters​​​​.
• Pennsylvania National Guard Education Assistance Program: Provides tuition assistance to members who commit to an additional service period, covering up to the cost of tuition at state-owned universities or equivalent​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veteran Employment Services: Career resources are available through Pennsylvania CareerLink, with veteran preference in state Civil Service jobs​​.

Financial Assistance

• Income Tax Exemptions: Military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are exempt from state income tax​​.
• Veterans Temporary Assistance: Offers financial aid for veterans in immediate need, not exceeding $1,600 within a 12-month period​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting/Fishing License: Disabled veterans and those with a 60%-99% disability rating can receive free or discounted licenses​​.

Additional Benefits

• Blind Veterans Pension and Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension: Provides a monthly pension of $150 for qualifying conditions​​.
• Military Family Relief Assistance Program: Offers emergency financial assistance up to $3,500 for eligible service members and their families​​.

Rhode Island Veteran Benefits

Rhode Island offers a range of benefits for its veterans, covering education, employment, housing, and other financial aids:

Housing Benefits

• Rhode Island Veterans Home: Located in Bristol, it’s available for honorably discharged Rhode Island wartime veterans, with costs based on 80% of adjusted net income​​​​.

Education Benefits

• In-State Tuition: Veterans are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Rhode Island under certain conditions​​.
• Tuition Waivers for Disabled Veterans: Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated from 10% to 100% may receive free tuition at Rhode Island public colleges and universities, subject to certain conditions​​​​.
• Rhode Island National Guard State Tuition Exemption Program (STEP): Offers tuition exemptions to Guard members pursuing higher education​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Hiring Preference: Rhode Island provides hiring preferences to veterans for state jobs, including additional points on civil service exams for veterans and disabled veterans​​​​.

Financial and Tax Benefits

• Retiree Income Tax: Military retirement pay is tax-free starting in 2023​​.
• Property Tax Exemption: Various exemptions are available for veterans on real estate or motor vehicle taxes, with specific categories including totally and partially disabled veterans, Gold Star parents, and others​​​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Disabled Veterans Hunting and Fishing Licenses: 100% disabled veterans are eligible for free licenses, applicable to residents and non-residents alike​​.
• State Park Admission: Veterans with a 100% VA disability can access Rhode Island state parks for free, although camping and other specific fees still apply​​.

Additional Supports

• Free Vehicle Registration for Disabled Veterans: Lifetime exemption from annual vehicle registration and license fees is available for veterans who have lost limbs or their use, or are totally disabled​​.
• Rhode Island Veterans’ Cemetery: Provides burial services for eligible Rhode Island wartime veterans, some spouses, and dependents in Exeter​​​​.

South Carolina Veteran Benefits

South Carolina offers a wide range of benefits for veterans, including housing, education, employment, and recreational benefits:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Five homes located in Anderson, Columbia, Walterboro, Florence, and Gaffney, catering to honorably discharged residents in need of nursing care​​.
• Property Taxes for Disabled Veterans: Provides homestead tax deductions and complete property tax exemption for permanently and totally disabled veterans​​.

Education Benefits

• South Carolina National Guard College Assistance Program: Offers up to $5,500 per year for tuition and fees, with a lifetime cap of $22,000​​.
• Free Tuition for Children of Certain Veterans: Available for children of South Carolina veterans meeting specific service and disability criteria​​.
• In-State Tuition Rates: Extended to veterans, active, and reserve component service members and their dependents regardless of residency duration in South Carolina​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Preference: Grants priority for state and public jobs to honorably discharged veterans​​.
• State Retirement Credit for Military Service: Allows state employees to buy credit towards retirement based on their military service​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Available for free or at resident rates for totally disabled veterans and active-duty service members​​.
• State Park Admission: Offers reduced rates for permanently and totally disabled veterans​​.

Additional Benefits

• Income Tax: Military retirement pay is exempt from state taxes.
• Veterans Cemetery: The M.J. “Dolly” Cooper veterans cemetery in Anderson offers free burial for veterans and their spouses​​.

South Dakota Veteran Benefits

South Dakota provides a range of benefits to veterans, from housing and education to financial and recreational advantages. Here’s an overview:

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Homes: Eligible veterans and their spouses can access care at the South Dakota Veterans Home in Hot Springs, emphasizing ambulatory residents who can care for themselves​​​​.

Education Benefits

• Tuition Benefits: There are programs offering tuition reductions and waivers for National Guard members, their dependents, and the children and spouses of veterans who have died or become totally disabled due to service​​​​.
• High School Diplomas for Veterans: Veterans who served during specific periods and didn’t graduate can receive honorary diplomas from the school district of their choice​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Hiring Preference: South Dakota gives hiring preference to veterans for state, county, municipal, and school district jobs. This includes interviews for veterans who meet the minimum qualifications​​​​.

Financial Benefits

• Property Tax Exemptions: Veterans with certain disabilities and qualifications may be exempt from property tax. There are also special property tax exemptions for paraplegic veterans​​​​.
• Veterans Bonus: Bonuses of up to $500 are available for veterans who served during specific periods and were South Dakota residents before their service​​​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Active duty service members stationed outside South Dakota and veterans hospitalized in Veterans hospitals within the state may fish or hunt without a license or at resident prices​​.
• State Park Entrance: Disabled veterans and former POWs can receive a free lifetime State Park Entrance License, offering free admission and discounts on camping fees​​.

Additional Benefits

• Veterans Records: Free certified copies of vital records are available for benefits claims​​.
• State Veterans Cemetery: Eligible veterans, their spouses, and dependents can be buried in the South Dakota State Veteran’s Cemetery in Sioux Falls​​.

Tennessee Veteran Benefits

Tennessee provides a variety of benefits to veterans, including housing, education, employment, and recreational opportunities. Here are some highlights:

Housing Benefits

• State Veterans Homes: Tennessee operates veterans homes in Clarksville, Humboldt, Knoxville, and Murfreesboro, available to Tennessee residents or natives, their spouses, surviving spouses, and Gold Star Parents​​​​.

Education Benefits

• Tennessee Helping Heroes Grant: Offers $1,000 per semester for eligible veterans enrolling in 12 or more semester hours, and $500 for 6 to 11 semester hours, with specific eligibility criteria related to service medals and Tennessee residency​​​​.
• Scholarships for Surviving Military Dependents and Surviving Spouses: Provides free tuition and fees at state-supported colleges for eligible surviving dependents and spouses​​.
• Early Registration for Classes: Veterans attending public institutions in Tennessee can register for classes before the general student population​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veteran Employment Preferences: Veterans receive preference in state employment, including guaranteed interviews for those who meet job qualifications​​​​​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting & Fishing License: Tennessee offers free hunting and fishing licenses to veterans with a 100% permanent disability or a 30% war-service-related disability​​.
• State Park Benefits: Discounted rates for camping and free admission on Veterans Day to state parks and golf courses​​.

Additional Benefits

• Property Tax Relief: Certain 100% disabled veterans are eligible for property tax relief on a portion of their property’s assessed value​​​​.
• Motor Vehicle Sales Tax Exemptions and Privilege Tax Waiver: Combat veterans and certain disabled veterans are eligible for exemptions and waivers on vehicle-related taxes​​.

Texas Veteran Benefits

Texas offers a comprehensive suite of benefits for veterans, including educational programs, housing assistance, financial benefits, and more. Here’s a summary of the best benefits for Texas veterans:

Educational Benefits

• Hazlewood Act: Provides up to 150 hours of tuition exemption at state schools for veterans, their spouses, and dependent children who meet certain residency and service requirements​​​​​​.
• Legacy Act: Allows veterans to assign unused Hazlewood Act hours to their children under certain conditions, ensuring educational benefits for their family​​.

Housing and Financial Assistance

• Veterans Homes: Texas has nine veterans homes located in cities across the state, offering long-term care for veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents, with costs based on income​​​​.
• Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Provides a total property tax exemption for 100% disabled veterans and their surviving spouses, with scaled benefits for veterans with 10 – 90% VA disability​​.
• Veteran Home Loans and Home Improvement Program: The Texas Veterans Land Board offers below-market interest rates for home and land loans as well as home improvement loans for eligible veterans​​.

Employment and Training Services

• Veterans Preference in Employment: Texas provides employment preference to wartime veterans, widows, and children of those killed on active duty, ensuring veterans are considered for state jobs​​​​.
• Veteran Entrepreneur Program: Assists veteran entrepreneurs with business plans, financing, marketing, and other aspects of business management​​.

Recreation Benefits

• Hunting & Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans and active-duty military members are eligible for free or discounted licenses​​​​.
• State Park Admissions: Offers free admission to Texas state parks for veterans with a 60% or greater disability and for active-duty military members​​.

Veterans Cemeteries

• Texas maintains four state veterans cemeteries, providing burial services for veterans and their eligible family members at no charge for the veteran​​.

Utah Veteran Benefits

Utah offers a range of benefits for veterans, covering education, employment, housing, and more:

Education Benefits

• Veterans Tuition Gap Program: Provides tuition assistance for the final school year at state higher education institutions for eligible veterans​​.
• Scott Lundell Military Survivors Tuition Waiver: Offers tuition waivers at state schools for dependents of service members killed in action after September 11, 2001​​.
• Purple Heart Recipients: Eligible for free tuition at public institutions of higher learning in Utah for undergraduate or master’s degree programs​​.
• Veterans Upward Bound Program: Offers support for veterans seeking post-secondary education in certain counties​​.

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Job Preference: Provides additional points for qualifying veterans applying for state jobs, with specific criteria for eligibility​​.

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Assisted Care Homes and Nursing Homes: Utah operates veterans’ homes in cities like Salt Lake City, Ogden, Payson, and Ivins, available to veterans under certain eligibility criteria​​.
• First-Time Home Buyer Grants: Offers a $2,500 grant for qualifying military and veterans purchasing a first home within Utah​​.

Financial Benefits

• Income Tax Exemptions: Military retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are tax-free​​.
• Property Tax Abatement: Disabled veterans can receive a reduction in property tax, with the maximum reduction based on the home’s appraised value and the veteran’s disability percentage​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Disabled Veteran Fishing License: Discounts available for disabled veterans with a 20% or more disability​​.
• State Park Admission: Honorably discharged veterans with a VA disability of 50% or more are eligible for an Honor Pass, providing free access to all state parks​​.

Vermont Veteran Benefits

Vermont offers a variety of benefits for veterans, including assistance in employment, housing support, financial aid, and recreational opportunities:

Employment Benefits

• Veterans Hiring Preference: Veterans seeking state employment in Vermont can receive preference points, enhancing their opportunities for state jobs. This also extends to certain spouses and un-remarried surviving spouses under specific conditions​​.

Housing Benefits

• Veterans Assisted Care Homes and Nursing Homes: The Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington provides a wide range of medical services to eligible veterans, including skilled nursing and rehabilitation therapies. Gold Star parents and spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify for admission​​.

Financial Benefits

• Vermont Veterans Assistance Fund: Offers financial assistance up to $500 for veterans or their families experiencing financial crises that impact their ability to pay for housing, utilities, or other critical needs​​.
• Tax Breaks: Eligible veterans may receive tax breaks on military disability retirement pay and a property tax exemption for totally disabled veterans​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Free Disabled Veteran, Fishing, Hunting or Combination Licenses: Eligible disabled veterans with a service-connected VA disability rating of 60% or greater can receive a free permanent fishing, hunting, or combination license​​.
• Active Duty and Reserve Component Service Member License Benefits: Offers free one-year fishing, hunting, or combination licenses for resident service members on active duty for 120 or more consecutive days, and resident prices for nonresident service members stationed in Vermont​​.
• Green Mountain Passport Lifetime Pass: Provides free or reduced-cost access to Vermont State Parks, historic sites, and fully state-sponsored events for veterans with honorable discharge​​.

Additional Benefits

• Medals for Veterans: Vermont recognizes the service and sacrifice of service members and their families with several medals, including the Vermont Veterans Medal, the Vermont Distinguished Service Medal, and the Vermont Patriots Medal​​.
• Veterans Assistance Fund: Offers a one-time payment to veterans or their families in financial crisis for critical needs​​.
• Veterans Discharge Records: Maintains copies of discharge records for veterans who entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Vermont, assisting with benefit claims​​.

Virginia Veteran Benefits

Virginia offers a wide array of benefits for veterans, spanning financial assistance, education, employment support, and recreational opportunities. Here are some highlights:

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Real Property Tax Exemption: Virginia provides a complete property tax exemption for eligible disabled veterans or their surviving spouses, applicable to the primary residence and up to one acre of land​​.
• Sales and Use Tax Exemption: Disabled veterans with a service-connected, 100%, permanent and total disability rating are eligible for a sales and use tax exemption on the purchase of one vehicle​​.

Education Benefits

• Virginia National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (VNGSTAP): Offers up to $7,000 per fiscal year for tuition toward one degree or credential at each level up to a doctorate, for service members of the Virginia National Guard​​.
• Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP): Provides educational financial assistance for eligible spouses/surviving spouses and children of certain service members and disabled veterans, covering all tuition and mandatory fees for eight semesters at a Virginia public college or university​​.

Employment Support

• Virginia Veteran & Family Support (VVFS): Offers resources, care coordination, and supportive services to Virginia’s veterans, National Guard, Armed Forces Reserves, family members, and caregivers, with a focus on challenges resulting from stress-related conditions or traumatic brain injuries connected to military service​​.

Recreational Benefits

• Hunting, Fishing & Trapping Licenses: Disabled veterans eligible for free permanent licenses, and active duty and reserve component service members on active duty for 120 or more consecutive days qualify for free one-year fishing, hunting, or combination licenses​​.
• Green Mountain Passport Lifetime Pass: Virginia resident veterans who received an honorable discharge are eligible for a $2 lifetime Green Mountain Passport, authorizing free day entry at Vermont State Parks, historic sites, and fully state-sponsored events​​.

Additional Services and Programs

• Veterans Care Centers: Virginia operates multiple veterans care centers providing a range of medical services for eligible veterans​​.
• Veterans Services Foundation: Supports veterans and their families through programs and services not covered by state or federal funds​​.

Washington Veteran Benefits

Washington state offers a variety of benefits and support for its veterans, covering areas such as housing, education, employment, recreation, and additional services.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Property Tax Exemption: Eligible disabled veterans in Washington may qualify for a property tax exemption on their primary residence.
• Veterans’ Home Loans: Washington offers low-interest home loans for veterans, helping them secure affordable housing.

Education Benefits

• Veterans Tuition Waiver: Certain qualifying veterans may receive a waiver of tuition and fees at Washington state colleges and universities.
• Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP): Provides assistance and support for eligible veterans seeking retraining or skill development.

Employment Support

• Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): Offers employment resources, including job training, resume assistance, and job placement services.
• Veterans Conservation Corps: Provides employment opportunities for veterans in conservation-related fields.

Recreational Benefits

• Free State Park Pass: Washington state offers free passes to its parks for disabled veterans and former POWs.
• Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Eligible disabled veterans may receive reduced or waived fees for hunting and fishing licenses.

Additional Services and Programs

• Veterans Homes: Washington operates several veterans homes, providing long-term care and rehabilitation services.
• Veterans Assistance Fund: Offers financial assistance to veterans and their families for emergency needs, such as housing, utilities, and medical expenses.

West Virginia Veteran Benefits

West Virginia provides a comprehensive range of benefits and support for its veterans, encompassing various aspects such as housing, education, employment, recreation, and additional services.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Property Tax Exemption: Eligible disabled veterans in West Virginia may qualify for a property tax exemption on their primary residence. To be eligible, veterans must have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
• Veterans’ Home Loans: West Virginia offers low-interest home loans for veterans, providing affordable housing options. Eligibility typically requires honorable discharge from military service and certain residency requirements.

Education Benefits

• Veterans Education and Training: West Virginia offers educational benefits to veterans and their dependents through programs such as the West Virginia G.I. Promise, which covers tuition and fees for eligible veterans pursuing higher education at West Virginia public colleges and universities. Eligibility criteria often include residency requirements and specific military service criteria.
• Free Tuition for Purple Heart Recipients: Purple Heart recipients residing in West Virginia may be eligible for free tuition and fees at state-supported institutions of higher learning, including community and technical colleges.

Employment Support

• Veterans Employment Services: The West Virginia Division of Veterans’ Affairs provides employment resources and assistance to veterans seeking job placement, training, and career development opportunities. Eligibility typically includes veteran status and may vary based on specific programs.
• Veterans Preference in State Employment: Eligible veterans receive preference in state employment opportunities in West Virginia. Preference points are awarded based on factors such as military service, disability, and wartime service.

Recreational Benefits

• Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: West Virginia offers free hunting and fishing licenses to veterans who are permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service, as well as to former prisoners of war (POWs). Eligible veterans must provide documentation of disability or POW status to qualify.
• State Park Discounts: West Virginia provides discounts on state park accommodations and activities for veterans and their families. Eligibility criteria may include veteran status and residency requirements.

Additional Services and Programs

• Veterans Nursing Home Care: West Virginia operates veterans nursing homes across the state, offering long-term care services to eligible veterans. Priority admission is typically given to veterans with service-connected disabilities and those in need of skilled nursing care.
• Veterans Transportation Assistance: West Virginia offers transportation assistance programs to help veterans access medical appointments, employment opportunities, and other essential services. Eligibility criteria may vary based on specific programs and services.

Wisconsin Veteran Benefits

Wisconsin offers a range of benefits and support for its veterans, covering various aspects such as housing, education, employment, recreation, and additional services.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Property Tax Exemption: Eligible disabled veterans in Wisconsin may qualify for a property tax credit on their primary residence. To be eligible, veterans must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 70%.
• Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit: Wisconsin provides a property tax credit to certain veterans and their surviving spouses who meet specific eligibility criteria, including income limits and residency requirements.

Education Benefits

• Wisconsin G.I. Bill: The Wisconsin G.I. Bill provides eligible veterans with up to eight full-time semesters or 128 credits of tuition and fee remission at University of Wisconsin (UW) System schools or Wisconsin Technical College System institutions. Eligibility typically requires residency in Wisconsin and specific military service criteria.
• Veterans Education Reimbursement Grant: Wisconsin offers a reimbursement grant for eligible veterans who pursued higher education or vocational training during active duty service. Eligibility criteria include honorable discharge and documentation of educational expenses incurred during active duty service.

Employment Support

• Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Employment Services: The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs offers employment resources and assistance to veterans, including job training, resume building, and job placement services. Eligibility typically includes veteran status and may vary based on specific programs.
• Veterans Employment Preference: Eligible veterans receive preference in state and local government employment in Wisconsin. Preference points are awarded based on factors such as military service, disability, and wartime service.

Recreational Benefits

• Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Wisconsin provides free hunting and fishing licenses to certain disabled veterans and former POWs. Eligible veterans must have a service-connected disability of at least 70% or be receiving total disability benefits.
• Free State Park Admission: Wisconsin offers free admission to state parks and forests for certain disabled veterans and former POWs. Eligibility criteria may include disability rating and POW status.

Additional Services and Programs

• Wisconsin Veterans Homes: Wisconsin operates several veterans homes across the state, providing long-term care and rehabilitation services to eligible veterans. Priority admission is typically given to veterans with service-connected disabilities and those in need of skilled nursing care.
• Veterans Housing and Recovery Program: Wisconsin offers transitional housing and supportive services to homeless veterans through programs such as the Veterans Housing and Recovery Program (VHRP). Eligibility criteria may include veteran status, income limits, and homelessness.

Wyoming Veteran Benefits

Wyoming provides a range of benefits and support for its veterans, covering various aspects such as housing, education, employment, recreation, and additional services.

Housing and Financial Benefits

• Property Tax Exemption: Eligible disabled veterans in Wyoming may qualify for a property tax exemption on their primary residence. To be eligible, veterans must have a service-connected disability rated at 50% or higher.
• Veterans Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses: Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or as a result of service-connected disabilities may be eligible for a property tax exemption on their primary residence.

Education Benefits

• Wyoming Veterans Education Benefits: Wyoming offers education benefits to eligible veterans and their dependents through programs such as the Veterans Service Education Program (VSEP) and the Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP). Eligibility criteria typically include residency requirements and specific military service criteria.
• National Guard Tuition Assistance: Members of the Wyoming National Guard may be eligible for tuition assistance for higher education pursuits. Eligibility requirements may include service in good standing and enrollment in eligible educational programs.

Employment Support

• Wyoming Veterans Commission Employment Services: The Wyoming Veterans Commission provides employment resources and assistance to veterans, including job training, resume building, and job placement services. Eligibility typically includes veteran status and may vary based on specific programs.
• Veterans Preference in State Employment: Eligible veterans receive preference in state government employment opportunities in Wyoming. Preference points are awarded based on factors such as military service, disability, and wartime service.

Recreational Benefits

• Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Wyoming offers free hunting and fishing licenses to certain disabled veterans and former POWs. Eligible veterans must have a service-connected disability rated at 50% or higher.
• Reduced Fee State Park Pass: Wyoming provides reduced fee or free state park passes to eligible disabled veterans and former POWs. Eligibility criteria may include disability rating and POW status.

Additional Services and Programs

• Wyoming Veterans Homes: Wyoming operates veterans homes that provide long-term care and rehabilitation services to eligible veterans. Priority admission is typically given to veterans with service-connected disabilities and those in need of skilled nursing care.
• Veterans Transportation Assistance: Wyoming offers transportation assistance programs to help veterans access medical appointments, employment opportunities, and other essential services. Eligibility criteria may vary based on specific programs and services.

Other Great Resources for Veterans

• Top 72 Federal Benefits for Veterans From A to Z

• MyArmyBenefits State & Territory Veteran Benefits List

• 2024 State Veteran Benefits From Military.com

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