We recently came across this extremely informative post on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Blog that was posted on July 29th, 2020. It is Part 2 of a 5-part series of helpful posts listing various facts about veterans benefits by state. This post, copied here in its entirety, lists the response from all 50 states to what their most underused veteran benefit is.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Links to the other informative posts are provided at the bottom of this article.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
U.S. states offer Veterans a wide range of benefits. State representatives provided VA the most underused benefit for Veterans, part of a five-part series. Below is a list of the benefits in alphabetical order by state.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
For VA benefits, people can download and print the VA Welcome Kit at https:\/\/www.va.gov\/welcome-kit<\/a>. People can provide general feedback and suggestions on ways VA can improve the Welcome Kit via email at vawelcomekit@va.gov. A YouTube video on the welcome kit is at https:\/\/youtu.be\/DZvITWcWutE<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cOur professional Veteran service officers, with offices in communities throughout Alabama, are our most underutilized Alabama benefit. Despite our best efforts, too many remain unaware that help filing for VA benefits is available at no cost. Their training and expertise really are the best chance a Veteran has to submit a fully developed claim that allows the VA to grant the maximum benefits to which they are entitled the first time.\u201d \u2013 Mark Sullivan, manager, Appeals and Review Division.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans and beneficiaries can learn more about the benefit at https:\/\/va.alabama.gov\/serviceofficer\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cAlaska offers a Veteran land discount\/purchase preference and it can only be used once, so many Veterans do not pursue this program thinking they will save it for later and then never use this valued benefit. This program provides a 20% discount off the purchase price of state residential\/recreational land. The land is offered under a Veteran exclusive opportunity and the sale is at fair appraised market value.\u201d \u2013 Verdie Bowen Sr., director, Office of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about this program at (URL) http:\/\/veterans.alaska.gov\/Documents\/LandDiscount.pdf<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe Arizona Military Family Relief Fund provides financial assistance to the families of currently deployed service members, plus military and Veteran families for hardships caused by the service member\u2019s deployment. The lifetime financial assistance limit for service members, Veterans and their families is $20,000. Applicants can receive emergency assistance of up to $3,000 once in a lifetime.\u201d \u2013 Wanda Wright, director<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the Military Family Relief Fund at https:\/\/dvs.az.gov\/requesting-MFRF<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe state\u2019s most underused benefit is Resident Military Retiree Lifetime Combination License.\u201d \u2013 Gina Chandler, assistant director, Veterans Services.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Information about that license and other hunting and fishing benefits to Veterans is at https:\/\/www.agfc.com\/en\/resources\/licensing\/disability-65-plus-and-lifetime-licenses\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cCalifornia\u2019s most underused state benefit would be our hunting and fishing license program. For 2020, reduced-fee licenses are available for any honorably discharged Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces with a service\u2013connected disability rating of 50% or greater at the price of $8.13.\u201d \u2013 Roberto Herrera, chief, Veteran and Community Engagement<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the program at https:\/\/www.calvet.ca.gov\/VetServices\/Pages\/Fishing-and-Hunting-Licenses.aspx<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cColorado has a free Lifetime Fish & Game small game license for Veterans 60% or more service connected.\u201d \u2013 Richard J. Tremaine, director, Division of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/www.colorado.gov\/Vets<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cAmong the most underutilized state benefits is the Connecticut Qualified Veterans\u2019 Charitable Organization list maintained by the Department of Veterans Affairs. To be included on the list, the Veterans\u2019 organization must be one that: (1) Holds itself out to be established for any benevolent, educational, philanthropic, humane, scientific, patriotic, social welfare or advocacy purpose relating to or on behalf of Veterans; and (2) has been (A) a nonstock corporation, organized under chapter 602, or any predecessor thereto, for three or more years, or (B) a tax exempt organization under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or any subsequent corresponding internal revenue code of the United States, as amended from time to time, for three or more consecutive years.\u201d \u2013 Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Thomas J. Saadi<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans\u2019 organizations can learn more about this program at https:\/\/portal.ct.gov\/DVA\/Pages\/Veterans-Charitable-Organization-Listing\/Application<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is discounted hunting, trapping and fishing licenses.\u201d \u2013 Larence Kirby, executive director, Office of Veterans Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Any member of the Armed Forces while stationed within the state shall be deemed a resident of the state for the purpose of obtaining a license. Veterans with a disability rating of 60 percent or more by VA may obtain a no-fee license.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n To learn more about Delaware\u2019s services for Veterans, visit https:\/\/vets.delaware.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cFlorida waives undergraduate-level tuition at state universities and community colleges for Florida recipients of the Purple Heart and other combat-related decorations superior in precedence to the Purple Heart. The waiver program also includes the state\u2019s career and technical training facilities.\u201d \u2013 James S. \u201cHammer\u201d Hartsell, deputy executive director, Florida Department of Veterans\u2019 Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more by visiting https:\/\/www.FloridaVets.org\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cMany of Georgia\u2019s Veterans do not take advantage of the discounts available for state park entrance fees or for hunting and fishing licenses. Honorably discharged Veterans with a VA service-connected disability rating are eligible for a 25% reduction of the entrance fee to state parks, historical sites, and recreational areas. Veterans discharged after July 1, 2005 and who served 90 days on active duty are eligible for a free one-year full sportsman license. All honorably discharged Veterans are eligible for a 20% discount on hunting and fishing licenses.\u201d \u2013 Mike Roby, Georgia\u2019s commissioner of Veterans Service<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the program at https:\/\/veterans.georgia.gov\/hunting-and-fishing-licenses<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cHawaii\u2019s Most underused state benefit is the Specialty Veteran\u2019s License Plates. For the same cost as a regular license plate, Veterans can choose, if qualified, a Veteran, Combat or Combat Wounded, Pearl Harbor Survivor, Former POW, World War II Veteran, Korea Veteran, Vietnam Veteran, Persian Gulf Veteran, or Gold Star Family license plate.\u201d \u2013 Ronald Han, Director State Office of Veterans\u2019 Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the exemption at http:\/\/dod.hawaii.gov\/ovs\/benefits-and-services\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Recently, Idaho passed legislation to make it easier for Veterans, military members and their families to get occupational licenses. Under the Occupational Licensing Reform Act Chapter 94, Title 67, Idaho Code, those benefits may include expedited processing of license applications and credit for military training that is relevant to the occupational license\/registration being applied for. This is a significant reduction in regulatory hurdles and will meaningfully impact Veterans, military members and their families as more become aware of this benefit.\u201d \u2013 Marv Hagedorn, Idaho Division of Veterans Services chief administrator<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about this benefit at https:\/\/ibol.idaho.gov\/IBOL\/AgencyAdditional.aspx?Agency=427&AgencyLinkID=100<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cIllinois\u2019 newest benefit is the Veteran designation for Illinois state driver\u2019s licenses. This has quickly become our most popular benefit in terms of the number of Veterans who have obtained it. Our most popular monetary benefit is the Illinois Veterans Grant\/Illinois National Guard Grant.\u201d \u2013 Linda Chapa LaVia, director of the Illinois Department of Veterans\u2019 Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Illinois Veterans and their families can learn more about these programs at https:\/\/www2.illinois.gov\/veterans\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Indiana has several property tax deductions. Indiana has $14,000 deduction for Veterans that served during peace time or the surviving spouse of a service member that was killed in action or died during active duty. The Veteran must be totally disabled or must be 62 years old with a 10% service-connected disability rating. There is an assessed value limit of $200,000. Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/www.in.gov\/dva\/2383.htm<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n There\u2019s a $24,960 deduction for wartime Veterans with at least a 10% service-connected disability rating. There is no assessed value limit for this benefit. Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/www.in.gov\/dva\/2383.htm<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n A Veteran who served during a period of war and is at least 62 years old with a 10% service-connected disability rating OR has a permanent and total service-connected disability rating at any age AND whose home\u2019s assessed value is $200,000 or less, can receive both property tax deductions for a total of $38,960. Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/www.in.gov\/dva\/2383.htm<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cWe receive the least applications for the Brandstead-Reynolds Scholarship Program, which provides post-secondary educational scholarships for children of deceased military service members who died on active duty after Sept. 11, 2001; and our War Orphan Tuition Assistance Program.\u201d \u2013 Karl J. Lettow, public information<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Details on these are at https:\/\/va.iowa.gov\/benefits<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cOne of the best kept secrets for Kansas Veterans is internment opportunities at our four beautiful Veterans cemeteries strategically located throughout the state. These facilities provide burial options for the Veteran and their eligible dependents.\u201d \u2013 Heidi Goff, state Veteran cemeteries manager<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n More information about the Veteran cemeteries can be accessed at the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office website at https:\/\/www.kcva.ks.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cWe are justly proud of our free benefits counseling by our VA-accredited expert benefits representatives stationed throughout the state. But because many Veterans never seek state or federal benefits, Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs currently represents only 13% of Kentucky Veterans. We are making sustained outreach efforts through the Call Us First promotion and attending Veteran events and meetings throughout the state.\u201d \u2013 Donna Scrivener, Benefits Branch manager.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Kentucky Veterans can find out more about this here https:\/\/veterans.ky.gov\/Benefits\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cOur most underused state benefit is our Military Family Assistance Fund. This benefit can provide financial support to Louisiana Veterans and their families when they experience financial hardships. The MFA can pay up to $10,000 for one claim per active-duty order in a 12-month period. Applicants must submit a completed application to Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs and include all required supporting documentation, as certain criteria applies. The MFA is funded 100% by private donations from individuals and corporations.\u201d \u2013 Joey Strickland, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information on the Military Family Assistance Fund, visit https:\/\/www.vetaffairs.la.gov\/benefit-category\/emergency-assistance\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused benefit that is offered by the State of Maine is the Veterans Dependent Education Benefit. While this specific benefit is only offered to those Veterans who have received a 100% Permanent and Total Disability rating from the State of Maine, many Veterans who qualify do not utilize the benefit. The dependents and spouses of qualifying Veterans are provided a 100% waiver of tuition and all mandatory fees for spouses and dependents of Veterans at all University of Maine System Schools, Maine Community Colleges, and Maine Maritime Academy.\u201d \u2013 David Richmond, director, Maine Bureau of Veterans\u2019 Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information, visit https:\/\/www.maine.gov\/veterans\/benefits\/education\/index.html<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe Hire Our Veterans Act of 2017 created the Hire Our Veterans Tax Credit Program for employers. This underutilized program enables Maryland employers who qualify to receive an income tax credit equal to 30% of up to the first $6,000 of wages paid to a qualified Veteran employee during the first year of employment.\u201d \u2013 George Owings, secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans and employers can learn more about the Program and how to apply at https:\/\/commerce.maryland.gov\/fund\/programs-for-businesses\/hire-our-veterans-tax-credit<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For Massachusetts information, visit https:\/\/www.mass.gov\/orgs\/massachusetts-department-of-veterans-services<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit in Michigan is the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant. This grant provides undergraduate tuition assistance to students ages 17-25 who are the natural or adopted child of a Michigan Veteran. The Veteran must have died or have become totally and permanently disabled as a result of military service. The families of our Veterans are just as important to us as our Veterans, which is why we want to ensure that they take advantage of all of their benefits.\u201d \u2013 Zaneta Adams, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency director<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information visit https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mistudentaid\/0,4636,7-372\u2013481212\u2013,00.html<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cOur most underused benefits are the three State Veterans Cemeteries and the Minnesota GI Bill, especially for licensing and certifications.\u201d \u2013 Larry Herke, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n To learn more about cemeteries, visit https:\/\/mn.gov\/mdva\/memorials\/stateveteranscemeteries\/<\/a>. To learn about the GI Bill, visit https:\/\/mn.gov\/mdva\/resources\/education\/minnesotagibill\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cWhen it comes to the most underused state benefit, look no further than the Mississippi Veterans Home Purchase Board. They provide low-interest mortgage loans in amounts up to $250,000 for eligible Veterans and unmarried surviving spouses to purchase an existing home or to construct a new one.\u201d \u2013 Stacey Pickering, executive director of Mississippi Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information on Mississippi Veterans Affairs, visit http:\/\/www.msva.ms.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cWith a philosophy of honoring our Veterans for their service and sacrifice, the Missouri Veterans Commission has created a network of Veterans cemeteries so that every Missouri Veteran will have reasonable access to a Veterans cemetery. There are five cemeteries in operation at this time; Springfield, Higginsville, Jacksonville, Bloomfield and Fort Leonard Wood.\u201d \u2013 Ryon Richmond, acting executive director, Missouri Veterans Commission<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the program at https:\/\/mvc.dps.mo.gov\/cemeteries\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cOne of Montana\u2019s most underused state benefits is the free pass to access State Parks along with a free hunting and fishing license for disabled Veterans.\u201d \u2013 Kelly Ackerman, administrator, Montana Veterans Affairs Division<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information, visit http:\/\/fwp.mt.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is the Reservist Tuition Credit. Nebraska residents who are enlisted members of the Nebraska \u2013based unit of the Active Selected Reserve may be eligible for a 50% tuition credit to the University of Nebraska campuses, state colleges and community colleges.\u201d \u2013 John Hilgert, Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs director<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the program at https:\/\/veterans.nebraska.gov\/reservist-tuition<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cNevada provides Veterans preference for those who identify as a Veteran owned business. When completing the form from the Governor\u2019s Office of Economic Development (GOED), simply indicate Veteran-Owned Small Business (SB) (VOSB), Service-Disabled VOSB (SDVOSB), Veteran-Owned (VO), or Service-Disabled VO.\u201d \u2013 Julie Dudley, communications director<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the program at https:\/\/www.diversifynevada.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Nevada-PTAC-POP-Client-Questionnaire-6-26-2020.pdf<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cNew Hampshire\u2019s most underused benefit is the New Division of Veteran Services. Far too often the Veterans in NH do not know that the office exists and that it exists to assist them with their claims with the VA.\u201d \u2013 William Gaudreau, director, NH Division of Veteran Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about benefits at https:\/\/www.nh.gov\/nhveterans\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is the New Jersey Catastrophic Entitlement. Eligible Veterans\/surviving spouses receive a monthly entitlement of $62.50. A Veteran must be a New Jersey resident in receipt of a permanent service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that resulted from wartime service resulting in one of the following catastrophic disabilities: loss of sight; amputation of both hands, both feet or one hand and one foot; hemiplegia and permanent paralysis of one leg and one arm on either side of the body; paraplegia and permanent paralysis of both legs and lower parts of the body; osteochondritis and permanent loss of use of both legs; multiple sclerosis and the loss of use of both feet or both legs; quadriplegia.\u201d \u2013 Patricia A. Richter, acting director, Division of Veterans Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information, call (888) 8NJ-VETS (865-8387) or visit https:\/\/www.nj.gov\/military\/veterans<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The most underused state benefit by Veterans in New Mexico is the Free State Parks, Monuments, and Museums Pass for Disabled Veterans.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n This benefit provides any Veteran rated 50% or higher service-connected disabled with free admission to any state monument or museum.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Last year, the agency processed 1,080 applications for this benefit. Veterans can learn more about the program at http:\/\/www.nmdvs.org\/state-benefits\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cNew York\u2019s most underused state benefit is the Access to Home for Heroes run by Homes and Community Renewal. This program provides financial assistance to make dwelling units accessible for low- and moderate-income Veterans living with a disability.\u201d \u2013 Joel Evans, executive deputy director, New York State Division of Veterans\u2019 Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n New York Veterans can learn more about this program at https:\/\/hcr.ny.gov\/access-home-heroesveterans<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused North Carolina state benefit is property tax relief for adaptative automobiles.\u201d \u2013 Martin Falls, chief deputy secretary for the North Carolina Department of Military and Veteran Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the North Carolina Veteran programs at https:\/\/www.milvets.nc.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is the loan program North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs.\u201d \u2013 Lonnie Wangen, commissioner<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The Veterans Aid Fund is a permanent fund to be used solely for the purpose of making loans to Veterans or their widow\/widowers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more at http:\/\/www.nd.gov\/veterans\/benefits\/loan-programs<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe Ohio National Guard offers tuition assistance at over 150 Ohio colleges and universities for Veterans who serve in an enlisted drilling status with the Guard \u2013 up to four semesters of full time tuition for a three-year commitment, and up to eight semesters for a six-year commitment.\u201d \u2013 Sean McCarthy, assistant director, Department of Veterans Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n A comprehensive Ohio Veterans Resource Guide is available online at https:\/\/dvs.ohio.gov\/wps\/wcm\/connect\/gov\/7c2ff73e-7a10-42a9-b2c1-4688be28837c\/BenefitsGuide.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=n8kF7Cb<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For Oklahoma information, visit https:\/\/odva.ok.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cOregon has been offering a state home loan to Veterans since 1945. Not only are Veterans eligible for considerably lower than market interest rates, borrowers can use their home loan benefit up to four times over their lifetime. ODVA services all Veteran home loans, so loans closed under this program will never be transferred. Oregon is one of only five states that offers a Veteran home loan benefit that is separate and distinct from the federal VA Home Loan Guaranty.\u201d \u2013 Cody Cox, Oregon Veteran Home Loan manager<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Oregon Veterans can learn more about the program at https:\/\/www.oregon.gov\/odva\/Home-Loans\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cA lesser-known but very valuable benefit offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is the Blind Veterans Pension. This program, which only has about 100 enrolled Veterans, provides eligible blind Veterans a pension of $150 per month. Our goal is to continue to identify and enroll every eligible Veteran who deserves this benefit because of their service and sacrifice.\u201d \u2013 Joel H. Mutschler, director of the Bureau of Veterans Programs, Initiatives, Reintegration, and Outreach<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Pennsylvania Veterans can learn more about the Blind Veterans Pension program at https:\/\/www.dmva.pa.gov\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is eligible active duty military and Veterans receive in-state tuition rates at University of Rhode Island, Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College immediately upon establishing residence in Rhode Island.\u201d \u2013 Kasim Yarn, director, Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more at http:\/\/www.vets.ri.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n South Carolina provides a tuition waiver for qualified children of certain military Veterans applying to or enrolled in a South Carolina state supported college, university or post high school technical education school; or acceptance into a dual enrollment\/early college credit program prior to graduating high school. Qualifying Veterans and students must meet certain residency requirements.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThere is a lot of confusion surrounding this particular benefit on the Federal and State level. We aim to provide education and support for our Veterans and tuition assistance for their children, to help families understand what is offered to them, specifically here in South Carolina.\u201d \u2013 Stanley Foreman, director of Administration for the South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information, visit http:\/\/va.sc.gov\/benefits.html<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The most underused state benefit in South Dakota is education benefits. South Dakota support the success of Veterans, current military members, and their families. They work to secure both state and federal educational benefits.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cNow, more than ever, we need to keep our sleeves rolled up and work collectively to ensure our Veterans have a successful journey as they transition into civilian life.\u201d \u2013 Greg Whitlock, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Whitlock encourages Veterans to contact their local county or tribal Veterans service officers or the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs office (605-773-3269) to learn more about their benefits. Veterans can also visit https:\/\/vetaffairs.sd.gov\/<\/a> or https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SDDVA\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cUnited States military training is rigorous and provides world class instruction, and it is only appropriate that our colleges recognize this training and provide a head start on attaining a college credential. The TN-SOP tool will provide transparent information to service members and Veterans, continuing our efforts to be the most Veteran friendly higher education system in the nation.\u201d \u2013 Tennessee Higher Education Commission Executive Director Mike Krause<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more about the program at http:\/\/tn-sop.tn.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cMore and more of those transitioning out of the military are seeking careers in established companies. For those who don\u2019t, those wanting to start their own business, we\u2019d like them to know about our entrepreneur program. We can help develop business plan, organize financing and more.\u201d \u2013 Kevin Barber, commissioner of the Texas Veterans Commission.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can connect with a Texas Veterans Commission Veteran business consultant at https:\/\/www.tvc.texas.gov\/entrepreneurs\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe ACE Program is designed to assist Utah Veterans, actively drilling members of the Guard and Reserve and their respective spouses, overcome barriers to employment or better employment by assisting them in attaining certificates and licenses using their military training and experience or by assisting with short-term training. The ACE Program is intended to provide an avenue for eligible participants to gain employment in the civilian job market by capitalizing on their past experience, training and knowledge or by assisting them with short-term training that leads to a certificate or license.\u201d \u2013 Gary Harter, executive director of Utah\u2019s Department of Veterans and Military Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n More information is at https:\/\/jobs.utah.gov\/jobseeker\/veterans\/07_72.pdf<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is free daily passes to Vermont State Parks. Apply through your local town clerk.\u201d \u2013 Robert E. Burke, director, Office of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information visit https:\/\/veterans.vermont.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe Virginia Transition Assistance Program (VTAP) is the most underused state benefit. VTAP offers transitioning service members and their spouses the best Virginia has to offer. By providing peer-to-peer support through the transition process, VTAP works alongside the transitioning service member or spouse to make referrals that address their specific needs. The referral services could include, but are not limited to resume review, introduction to the Virginia Labor Market, connection with Virginia Values Veterans (V3) certified companies for employment, and other VDVS programs. VTAP serves those seeking employment and\/or entrepreneurship opportunities in Virginia or enrollment in one of Virginia\u2019s GI Bill approved institutions.\u201d \u2013 Annie Walker, deputy commissioner for Virginia Department of Veterans Services<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/www.dvs.virginia.gov\/education-employment\/virginia-transition-assistance-program-vtap<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cWashington Department of Veterans Affairs Olympia Call Center, which helps the user understand the state and federal benefits, connects Veterans to their earned disability compensation\/pension and health care, and makes referrals to other local services.\u201d \u2013 Liza Narciso, assistant to the director, Washington Department of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n For more information, visit https:\/\/www.dva.wa.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe Jack Bennett Fund will pay up to $380 to cover the cost of installing grave markers for Veteran families unable to have the marker installed.\u201d \u2013 Cabinet Secretary Dennis Davis<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/veterans.wv.gov\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe WDVA recently increased access for Veterans to our Assistance to Needy Veterans Grant program, which provides subsistence payments and other health grants to low income Veterans in need of emergency financial aid. Recently Wisconsin suspended several provisions of the program that would prevent or delay payments to Veterans who have experienced a loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, giving us the flexibility to help as many Veterans as possible during this challenging time.\u201d \u2013 Donald Placidi Jr., Division of Veterans Benefits administrator, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Apply for the Assistance for Needy Veterans Grant online at https:\/\/applications.dva.wisconsin.gov\/mywisvets<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \u201cThe most underused state benefit is the honorary high school diploma. We haven\u2019t had a request in over three years.\u201d \u2013 Tim Sheppard, executive director, Wyoming Veterans Commission<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n The following individuals who have attended a Wyoming high school, entered military service on the dates specified below prior to completing necessary high school graduation requirements and who did not receive a high school diploma, may apply to the state superintendent of public instruction for an honorary high school diploma:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n An honorably discharged Veteran of World War II who served in the U.S. military between Dec. 8, 1941, and Aug. 14, 1945;<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n An honorably discharged Veteran of the Korean War, who served in the U.S. military between June 27, 1950, and July 28, 1953;<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n An honorably discharged veteran of the Vietnam War, who served in the U.S. military between Feb. 28, 1961, and Aug. 15, 1973.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Veterans can learn more at https:\/\/www.wyomilitary.wyo.gov\/veterans\/commission\/<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Source of VA Blog post, Part 2 of 5, can be found here: https:\/\/www.blogs.va.gov\/VAntage\/76440\/veterans-benefits-2020-underused-state-benefit\/<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n PART 1: Most Popular Veterans State Benefit<\/a> We recently came across this extremely informative post on the …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[63],"tags":[29,24,25,27],"class_list":["post-7280","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-veteran-news","tag-veterans-affairs","tag-veterans-benefits","tag-veterans-disability","tag-veterans-legal"],"yoast_head":"\nAlabama<\/h2>\r\n
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Maryland<\/h2>\r\n
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Michigan<\/h2>\r\n
Minnesota<\/h2>\r\n
Mississippi<\/h2>\r\n
Missouri<\/h2>\r\n
Montana<\/h2>\r\n
Nebraska<\/h2>\r\n
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New Mexico<\/h2>\r\n
New York<\/h2>\r\n
North Carolina<\/h2>\r\n
North Dakota<\/h2>\r\n
Ohio<\/h2>\r\n
Oklahoma<\/h2>\r\n
Oregon<\/h2>\r\n
Pennsylvania<\/h2>\r\n
Rhode Island<\/h2>\r\n
South Carolina<\/h2>\r\n
South Dakota<\/h2>\r\n
Tennessee<\/h2>\r\n
Texas<\/h2>\r\n
Utah<\/h2>\r\n
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Wyoming<\/h2>\r\n
PART 3: Most Unique or Newest Veterans State Benefit<\/a>
PART 4: Largest of Most Successful State Employer of Veterans<\/a>
PART 5: Most Popular State Veteran Monument<\/a><\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"