State / Territory Benefits - Connecticut
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Summary: Connecticut offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including a Soldiers, Sailors' and Marines' fund, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
State Tax Advantage: Property tax advantage varies by town.
Retired Military Pay: Connecticut exempts 50% of federally taxable military retirement pay from the state income tax. The exemption applies to federal retirement pay to members of the U. S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Army and Air National Guard.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.
Property Tax Exemption: A reduction of the assessed value of property for tax purposes is available - $1,500.00 off the assessed value of either real estate or automobile before tax is assessed. Veterans below a certain income level and/or have service connected disabilities are eligible for additional property tax exemptions (up to $10,000 for paraplegics).
Eligibility: Veterans who have at least 90 days of active duty during wartime and are honorably discharged. Surviving spouses of Veterans may also be eligible for this benefit.
Automobile Sales Tax for Military Personnel: Members of the U.S. armed forces who are residents of Connecticut are subject to a 6.35% (7% for vehicles over $50,000) sales and use tax. Members of the U.S. armed forces who are stationed in Connecticut on full-time active duty and are residents of another state may purchase motor vehicles from a licensed Connecticut dealer at a reduced sales tax rate of 4.5%. Nonresident military personnel may also jointly purchase motor vehicles with their spouses from a licensed Connecticut dealer at the 4.5% sales tax rate.
Eligibility: Members of the US Armed Forces must provide proof to the motor vehicle dealer that they are not Connecticut residents and that they are on full-time active duty in Connecticut.
Veterans Tuition Waiver: Tuition waivers for certain Veterans (see eligibility requirements below) cover 100% of tuition for General Fund course at all public colleges and universities and 50% for Extension Fund and summer courses at Connecticut State Universities. Veterans may attend Connecticut Public Colleges and Universities tuition free. Connecticut statutes provide that tuition may be waived for qualified Veterans attending the University of Connecticut, Connecticut State Universities and the 12 Community Technical Colleges. Waivers cover only the cost of tuition for credit-bearing undergraduate and graduate programs. Books, student activity and course fees, parking, and room and board are not waived. If a Veteran has elected to receive benefits under the Federal Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (Post 9/11 GI Bill), these are applied first, and the tuition waiver pays the balance
Eligibility: Veterans must be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, 90 days active Military duty during war, and Connecticut residents at least for one year upon enrolling in college; Veterans must have been accepted in a degree program.
Periods of Service - Only those Veterans who served in the following manner may qualify:
-- Active duty for at least (90) days:
-- World War II (December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946)
-- Korean Hostilities (June 27, 1950 to January 31, 1995)
-- Vietnam (February 28, 1961 to July 1, 1975)
-- Persian Gulf Era (August 2, 1990 - a date to be determined by Presidential proclamation or federal law - Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom are included in this category
Engaged in combat or in combat support role in the:
-- Lebanon Conflict (July 1, 1958 to November 1, 1958)
-- Peace Keeping Mission in Lebanon (September 29, 1982 to March 30, 1984)
-- Grenada Invasion (October 25, 1983 to December 15, 1983)
-- Operation Earnest Will (July 24, 1987 to August 1, 1990)
-- Panama Invasion (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990)
High School Diplomas and Veterans of WWII: Local Boards of Education may award diplomas to those WWII Veterans who did not receive them when they left high school before graduation for military service.
Employment Benefits:
Employment Reinstatement: An employee who leaves any public authority or public agency to enter the armed forces can be reinstated in their former position. Veterans must reapply within ninety (90) days following receipt of a certificate from the armed forces confirming satisfactory service.
Veterans' Preference: For classified competitive state exams, a wartime Veteran eligible for or receiving VA compensation receives an additional ten (10) points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for VA compensation or pension receives five (5) additional points. A spouse of a qualified Veteran is also eligible for additional points. However, to qualify, the Veteran or spouse must achieve a passing grade on the examination score. If an honorably discharged Veteran has served in a military action for which he/she received, or is entitled to receive, a campaign badge or expeditionary medal, he/she qualifies for five (5) additional points if they receive a passing grade on their examination. On a competitive municipal examination, a wartime Veteran eligible for VA compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives ten (10) additional points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives five (5) additional points.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 15 days paid military leave each year
Eligibility: Members of the National Guard or Army Reserve
State Employment: State employees receive 15 days paid military leave each year.
Eligibility: National Guard or Army Reserve Service members.
Unemployment Compensation: Unemployment Insurance (UI) is temporary income for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own and who are either looking for new jobs, in approved training, or awaiting recall to employment. The funding for UI benefits comes from taxes paid by employers. Workers do not pay any of the costs. To qualify for unemployment benefits, you must have earned sufficient wages during a specified time (monetary eligibility). To collect those benefits, you must meet certain legal eligibility requirements.
To apply for Unemployment Insurance, you must complete an initial (or new) claim by telephone. A claim should be filed with the Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) TeleBenefits Line as soon as you are separated from employment.
http://www.dol.gov/elaws/vets/realifelines/stateinfo.htm?state=CT
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits:
Special Vehicle License, Registration and License Plates: There are now a number of special military license plates available including: Disabled American Veteran, First Company Governor's Foot Guard, First Company Governor's Horse Guard, Flag-Style Veteran, Gold Star Family, Greater Hartford Chapter of 82nd Airborne, Iwo Jima Survivor, Korean War Veterans Association Inc., Laos Veterans of America, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Guard Association of Connecticut (Active), National Guard of Connecticut (Retired), Pearl Harbor 1941, Second Company Governor's Foot Guard, U.S. Submarine Veteran, Veteran Motorcycle Plate.
Motor Vehicle License: POWs and recipients of the Medal of Honor are entitled to free motor vehicle registration and special plates. Veterans who were state residents at the time of induction and who apply within two (2) years of receiving an honorable discharge are exempt from paying for an operator's license and examination fees for one (1) licensing period.
State law also provides that fees may be waived for the following registration items, subject to a formal determination by the Department of Motor Vehicles:
-- Special license plates for disabled Veterans
-- Special fee license plates for certain disabilities (loss of use or loss of limb, or blind) handicapped and overtime parking.
-- If receiving auto grant from the VA or Medal of Honor recipient, exemption from registration fees.
License and Vehicle Registration Waiver: Connecticut general statues allow for the waiver of license and registration fees for any resident of Connecticut who is on active duty with the armed forces of the US and for two (2) years following the date of their honorable discharge. National Guard members and Reservists are eligible if they have been called to active duty for any length of time and show their active duty orders.
Eligibility: Must be honorably discharged from a component of the U.S. Armed Forces. An Application for Waiver of Registration Fee for Someone in the Military (form B-276) must be submitted along with the renewal notice.
Prisoner of War (POW) Registrations Plate Tag: A POW registration can be issued to any member or former member of the armed forces who is a former Prisoner of War. There is no fee for a new POW registration, transfer, or renewal. However, all other fees apply (i.e. title fee, lien, clean air act fee, etc.).
Eligibility: The vehicle to be registered must be owned or leased by the former POW. A letter of approval from the Veteran's Administration is needed to verify the prisoner of war status and must be submitted on VA letterhead. A registrant is limited to only two (2) POW plates. Vehicles can be registered in the following classes only: passenger, camper, and combination. Upon the death of the POW, the surviving spouse may retain the plate for their lifetime or until they remarry.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Medical Benefits: Full medical
Eligibility: National Guard for line-of-duty
Group Insurance: Free life insurance of $20,000 for accidental death; State association offers members $50,000
Eligibility: National Guard Federal or State Active Duty
Injury: Worker's Compensation
Eligibility: National Guard State Active Duty
Death Benefits: $20,000 to beneficiary
Eligibility: National Guard Federal or State Active Duty
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Connecticut non-residents of the Armed Forces can purchase hunting, trapping and fishing Licenses for the same fee as a Connecticut residence.
Eligibility: Active Duty Service member
Free Inland Fishing and Hunting: Any resident with the loss of a limb or the loss of the use of a limb and a doctor's certificate may be issued a free license. Qualified nonresidents who are residents of states which allow CT residents the same privileges are also eligible.
Disabled Veteran Pass (Life Use): The Disabled Veteran Pass provides access to the State Parks and Forests and is available free to Connecticut residents who have a service connected disability. Free admittance is also provided for the Disabled Veteran Pass holder when visiting Gillette Castle, Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Parks. All other visitors, however, will be required to pay the appropriate fee. Please note that each pass is issued to a specific person and can only be used when presented by that individual. The passes are non-transferable. They are not valid for camping or special events having separate admission charges and may not be used for commercial purposes.
Eligibility: The Disabled Veteran Pass may be obtained in person; proof of residency and service connected disability status is required.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
Soldiers, Sailors' and Marines' Fund: A state fund administered by the American Legion for the purpose of providing temporary financial assistance. This benefit is for those who are disabled, unemployed, or sick. This fund provides for emergency needs such a clothing, food, medical and surgical aid, and general care and relief. To be eligible for assistance you must demonstrate "need".
Eligibility: A Veteran who is a Connecticut resident with 90 days of active duty service during a statutory wartime period with honorable discharge.
State Cemetery: Veterans are eligible for burial in the state Veterans' cemetery.
Eligibility: Any Veteran discharged with other than a dishonorable discharge, who has completed at least twenty years of service in the Connecticut National Guard; or who was killed in action, or who died as a result of accident or illness sustained while performing active service.
State of Connecticut Veterans' Cemetery: The State Veteran's Cemetery is located in Middletown, Ct.
Eligibility: All Veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty and were released from the Armed Forces under honorable conditions and who either entered the service as a resident of the state of Connecticut or died as a resident of the state of Connecticut and their spouses are eligible for burial. Honorable service in the Armed Forces of any country allied with the United States is also acceptable.
Veterans' Home at Rocky Hill, CT: The department has a health care center with a capacity of 120 beds, a 50-bed substance abuse recovery program and a 500-bed Residential Program. Professional services are provided by staff physicians, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, OT, PT, RT, dieticians, and social workers are augmented by community specialists, as well as, networking to local VA and major area hospitals when appropriate. By statute, Veterans who are able to pay in whole or in part for programs or services determined by the applicable fee schedule will receive a monthly bill for such services rendered.
Eligibility: Eligibility to enter our facility is restricted to those with an Honorable Discharge or General under Honorable Conditions. Veteran must be a current resident of the State of Connecticut.
Fellowship House: The Fellowship House is a residential substance abuse recovery support program, is located on the grounds of the State of Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), providing a variety of substance abuse services to eligible Veterans who have chosen to be clean and sober and whose long term desire is to reintegrate back into the community. It is designed to assist and support eligible Veterans after successful completion of either day or inpatient rehabilitation programs. The services provided are matched to a client's level of medical care, including full medical, psychosocial, psychological, and tertiary psychiatric follow-up. These levels of care are provided while a patient resides in our treatment facility, which is physically separate from the Domicile on grounds. The Fellowship House program is closely interfaced with other service programs at the State Veterans Home of the Department of Veterans Affairs, whose programs primarily focus is on educational and vocational programs, employment counseling, and job placement assistance.
Eligibility: All residents at the Veterans' Home and Hospital are eligible for treatment/supportive rehabilitation services. Admission to the Veterans' Recovery Center Program is coordinated through the regular Rocky Hill admission office procedures AND the admission coordinator for the program. Veterans are eligible for services through the Department of Veterans' Affairs after completing an application for admission AND a successful review by the admissions committee.
Wounded Warrior Benefits
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
Property Tax Exemption: A reduction of the assessed value of property for tax purposes is available - $1,500.00 off the assessed value of either real estate or automobile before tax is assessed. Veterans below a certain income level and/or have service connected disabilities are eligible for additional property tax exemptions (up to $10,000 for paraplegics).
Eligibility: Veterans who have at least 90 days of active duty during wartime and are honorably discharged. Surviving spouses of Veterans may also be eligible for this benefit.
Veterans Tuition Waiver: Tuition waivers for certain Veterans (see eligibility requirements below) cover 100% of tuition for General Fund course at all public colleges and universities and 50% for Extension Fund and summer courses at Connecticut State Universities. Veterans may attend Connecticut Public Colleges and Universities tuition free. Connecticut statutes provide that tuition may be waived for qualified Veterans attending the University of Connecticut, Connecticut State Universities and the 12 Community Technical Colleges. Waivers cover only the cost of tuition for credit-bearing undergraduate and graduate programs. Books, student activity and course fees, parking, and room and board are not waived. If a Veteran has elected to receive benefits under the Federal Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (Post 9/11 GI Bill), these are applied first, and the tuition waiver pays the balance
Eligibility: Veterans must be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, 90 days active Military duty during war, and Connecticut residents at least for one year upon enrolling in college; Veterans must have been accepted in a degree program.
Periods of Service - Only those Veterans who served in the following manner may qualify:
-- Active duty for at least (90) days:
-- World War II (December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946)
-- Korean Hostilities (June 27, 1950 to January 31, 1995)
-- Vietnam (February 28, 1961 to July 1, 1975)
-- Persian Gulf Era (August 2, 1990 - a date to be determined by Presidential proclamation or federal law - Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom are included in this category
Engaged in combat or in combat support role in the:
-- Lebanon Conflict (July 1, 1958 to November 1, 1958)
-- Peace Keeping Mission in Lebanon (September 29, 1982 to March 30, 1984)
-- Grenada Invasion (October 25, 1983 to December 15, 1983)
-- Operation Earnest Will (July 24, 1987 to August 1, 1990)
-- Panama Invasion (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990)
Employment Reinstatement: An employee who leaves any public authority or public agency to enter the armed forces can be reinstated in their former position. Veterans must reapply within ninety (90) days following receipt of a certificate from the armed forces confirming satisfactory service.
Veterans' Preference: For classified competitive state exams, a wartime Veteran eligible for or receiving VA compensation receives an additional ten (10) points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for VA compensation or pension receives five (5) additional points. A spouse of a qualified Veteran is also eligible for additional points. However, to qualify, the Veteran or spouse must achieve a passing grade on the examination score. If an honorably discharged Veteran has served in a military action for which he/she received, or is entitled to receive, a campaign badge or expeditionary medal, he/she qualifies for five (5) additional points if they receive a passing grade on their examination. On a competitive municipal examination, a wartime Veteran eligible for VA compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives ten (10) additional points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives five (5) additional points.
Special Vehicle License, Registration, and License Plates: There is now a number of special military license plates available including: Disabled American Veteran and Military Order of the Purple Heart.
License and Vehicle Registration Waiver: Connecticut general statues allow for the waiver of license and registration fees for any resident of Connecticut who is on active duty with the armed forces of the US and for two (2) years following the date of their honorable discharge. National Guard members and Reservists are eligible if they have been called to active duty for any length of time and show their active duty orders.
Eligibility: Must be honorably discharged from a component of the U.S. Armed Forces. An Application for Waiver of Registration Fee for Someone in the Military (form B-276) must be submitted along with the renewal notice.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Any active full-time member of the U.S. armed forces can purchase hunting, trapping, and fishing Licenses for the same fee as a Connecticut residence.
Eligibility: Active Duty Service member
Free Inland Fishing and Hunting: Any resident with the loss of a limb or the loss of the use of a limb and a doctor's certificate may be issued a free license. Qualified nonresidents who are residents of states which allow CT residents the same privileges are also eligible.
Disabled Veteran Pass (Life Use): The Disabled Veteran Pass provides access to the State Parks and Forests and is available free to Connecticut residents who have a service connected disability. Free admittance is also provided for the Disabled Veteran Pass holder when visiting Gillette Castle, Dinosaur or Fort Trumbull State Parks. All other visitors, however, will be required to pay the appropriate fee. Please note that each pass is issued to a specific person and can only be used when presented by that individual. The passes are non-transferable. They are not valid for camping or special events having separate admission charges and may not be used for commercial purposes.
Eligibility: The Disabled Veteran Pass may be obtained in person; proof of residency and service connected disability status is required.
Soldiers, Sailors' and Marines' Fund: A state fund administered by the American Legion for the purpose of providing temporary financial assistance. This benefit is for those who are disabled, unemployed, or sick. This fund provides for emergency needs such a clothing, food, medical and surgical aid, and general care and relief. To be eligible for assistance you must demonstrate "need".
Eligibility: A Veteran who is a Connecticut resident with 90 days of active duty service during statutory wartime period with honorable discharge.
Fellowship House: The Fellowship House is a residential substance abuse recovery support program, is located on the grounds of the State of Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), providing a variety of substance abuse services to eligible Veterans who have chosen to be clean and sober and whose long term desire is to reintegrate back into the community. It is designed to assist and support eligible Veterans after successful completion of either day or inpatient rehabilitation programs. The services provided are matched to a client's level of medical care, including full medical, psychosocial, psychological, and tertiary psychiatric follow-up. These levels of care are provided while a patient resides in our treatment facility, which is physically separate from the Domicile on grounds. The Fellowship House Program is closely interfaced with other service programs at the State Veterans Home of the Department of Veterans Affairs, whose programs primarily focus is on educational and vocational programs, employment counseling, and job placement assistance.
Eligibility: All residents at the Veterans' Home and Hospital are eligible for treatment/supportive rehabilitation services. Admission to the Veterans' Recovery Center program is coordinated through the regular Rocky Hill admission office procedures AND the admission coordinator for the program. Veterans are eligible for services through the Department of Veterans' Affairs after completing an application for admission AND a successful review by the admissions committee.
Survivor Benefits
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.
Property Tax Exemption: A reduction of the assessed value of property for tax purposes is available - $1,500.00 off the assessed value of either real estate or automobile before tax is assessed. Veterans below a certain income level and/or have service connected disabilities are eligible for additional property tax exemptions (up to $10,000 for paraplegics).
Eligibility: Veterans who have at least 90 days of active duty during wartime and are honorably discharged. Surviving spouses of Veterans may also be eligible for this benefit.
Prisoner of War (POW) Registrations Plate Tag: A POW registration can be issued to any member or former member of the armed forces who is a former Prisoner of War. There is no for a new POW registration, transfer or renewal. However, all other fees apply (i.e. title fee, lien, clean air act fee, etc.).
Eligibility: The vehicle to be registered must be owned or leased by the former POW. A letter of approval from the Veteran's Administration is needed to verify the prisoner of war status and must be submitted on VA letterhead. A registrant is limited to only two (2) POW plates. Vehicles can be registered in the following classes only: passenger, camper, and combination. Upon the death of the POW, the surviving spouse may retain the plate for their lifetime or until they remarry.
Gold Star Family License Plate: This plate is available to immediate Family members as a memorial for Connecticut Service members who were killed in the line of duty. Immediate Family consists of spouse, mother, father, brother, sister, child, grandmother or grandfather. There is no fee for this plate.
State of Connecticut Veterans' Cemetery: The State Veteran's Cemetery is located in Middletown, Ct.
Eligibility: All Veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty and were released from the Armed Forces under honorable conditions and who either entered the service as a resident of the state of Connecticut or died as a resident of the state of Connecticut and their spouses are eligible for burial. Honorable service in the Armed Forces of any country allied with the United States is also acceptable.
Army National Guard Benefits
State Tax Advantage: Property tax advantage varies by town.
Retired Military Pay: Connecticut exempts 50% of federally taxable military retirement pay from the state income tax. The exemption applies to federal retirement pay to members of the U. S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Army and Air National Guard.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
Property Tax Exemption: A reduction of the assessed value of property for tax purposes is available - $1,500.00 off the assessed value of either real estate or automobile before tax is assessed. Veterans below a certain income level and/or have service connected disabilities are eligible for additional property tax exemptions (up to $10,000 for paraplegics).
Eligibility: Veterans who have at least 90 days of active duty during wartime and are honorably discharged. Surviving spouses of Veterans may also be eligible for this benefit.
Automobile Sales Tax for Military Personnel: Members of the U.S. armed forces who are residents of Connecticut are subject to a 6.35% (7% for vehicles over $50,000) sales and use tax. Members of the U.S. armed forces who are stationed in Connecticut on full-time active duty and are residents of another state may purchase motor vehicles from a licensed Connecticut dealer at a reduced sales tax rate of 4.5%. Nonresident military personnel may also jointly purchase motor vehicles with their spouses from a licensed Connecticut dealer at the 4.5% sales tax rate.
Eligibility: Members of the US Armed Forces must provide proof to the motor vehicle dealer that they are not Connecticut residents and that they are on full-time active duty in Connecticut.
Veterans Tuition Waiver: Tuition waivers for certain Veterans (see eligibility requirements below) cover 100% of tuition for General Fund course at all public colleges and universities and 50% for Extension Fund and summer courses at Connecticut State Universities. Veterans may attend Connecticut Public Colleges and Universities tuition free. Connecticut statutes provide that tuition may be waived for qualified Veterans attending the University of Connecticut, Connecticut State Universities and the 12 Community Technical Colleges. Waivers cover only the cost of tuition for credit-bearing undergraduate and graduate programs. Books, student activity and course fees, parking and room and board are not waived.
Eligibility: Veterans must be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and Connecticut residents at least for one year upon enrolling in college; Veterans must have been accepted in a degree program. If a Veteran has elected to receive benefits under the Federal Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (Post 9/11 GI Bill), these are applied first, and the tuition waiver pays the balance
Eligibility: Veterans must be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, 90 days active Military duty during war, and Connecticut residents at least for one year upon enrolling in college; Veterans must have been accepted in a degree program.
Periods of Service - Only those Veterans who served in the following manner may qualify:
-- Active duty for at least (90) days:
-- World War II (December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946)
-- Korean Hostilities (June 27, 1950 to January 31, 1995)
-- Vietnam (February 28, 1961 to July 1, 1975)
-- Persian Gulf Era (August 2, 1990 - a date to be determined by Presidential proclamation or federal law - Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom are included in this category
Engaged in combat or in combat support role in the:
-- Lebanon Conflict (July 1, 1958 to November 1, 1958)
-- Peace Keeping Mission in Lebanon (September 29, 1982 to March 30, 1984)
-- Grenada Invasion (October 25, 1983 to December 15, 1983)
-- Operation Earnest Will (July 24, 1987 to August 1, 1990)
-- Panama Invasion (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990)
Veterans' Preference: For classified competitive state exams, a wartime Veteran eligible for or receiving VA compensation receives an additional ten (10) points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for VA compensation or pension receives five (5) additional points. A spouse of a qualified Veteran is also eligible for additional points. However, to qualify, the Veteran or spouse must achieve a passing grade on the examination score. If an honorably discharged Veteran has served in a military action for which he/she received, or is entitled to receive, a campaign badge or expeditionary medal, he/she qualifies for five (5) additional points if they receive a passing grade on their examination. On a competitive municipal examination, a wartime Veteran eligible for VA compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives ten (10) additional points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives five (5) additional points.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 15 days paid military leave each year
Eligibility: Members of National Guard or Army Reserve
Compensation for State Active Duty: Pay and allowances of $125.00 per day for National Guard member ordered into military service.
Eligibility: National Guard members activated for State Duty.
State Employment: State employees receive 15 days paid military leave each year.
Eligibility: National Guard or Army Reserve Service members.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Any active full-time member of the U.S. armed forces can purchase hunting, trapping, and fishing Licenses for the same fee as a Connecticut residence.
Eligibility: Active Duty Service member
Special Vehicle License, Registration, and License Plates: There is now a number of special military license plates available including: National Guard Association of Connecticut (Active) and National Guard of Connecticut (Retired)
License and Vehicle Registration Waiver: Connecticut general statues allow for the waiver of license and registration fees for any resident of Connecticut who is on active duty with the armed forces of the US and for two (2) years following the date of their honorable discharge.
Eligibility: National Guard members and Reservists are eligible if they have been called to active duty for any length of time and show their active duty orders. An Application for Waiver of Registration Fee for Someone in the Military (form B-276) must be submitted along with the renewal notice.
Soldiers, Sailors' and Marines' Fund: A state fund administered by the American Legion for the purpose of providing temporary financial assistance. This benefit is for those who are disabled, unemployed, or sick. This fund provides for emergency needs such a clothing, food, medical and surgical aid, and general care and relief. To be eligible for assistance you must demonstrate "need".
Eligibility: A Veteran who is a Connecticut resident with 90 days of active duty service during a statutory wartime period with honorable discharge.
State Cemetery: Veterans are eligible for burial in the state Veterans' cemetery.
Eligibility: Any Veteran discharged with other than a dishonorable discharge, who has completed at least twenty years of service in the Connecticut National Guard; or who was killed in action, or who died as a result of accident or illness sustained while performing active service.
State of Connecticut Veterans' Cemetery: The State Veteran's Cemetery is located in Middletown, Ct.
Eligibility: All Veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty and were released from the Armed Forces under honorable conditions and who either entered the service as a resident of the state of Connecticut or died as a resident of the state of Connecticut and their spouses are eligible for burial. Honorable service in the Armed Forces of any country allied with the United States is also acceptable
Veterans' Home at Rocky Hill, CT: The department has a health care center with a capacity of 120 beds, a 50-bed substance abuse recovery program, and a 500-bed Residential Program. Professional services are provided by staff physicians, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, OT, PT, RT, dieticians, and social workers are augmented by community specialists, as well as, networking to local VA and major area hospitals when appropriate. By statute, Veterans who are able to pay in whole or in part for programs or services determined by the applicable fee schedule will receive a monthly bill for such services rendered.
Eligibility: Eligibility to enter our facility is restricted to those with an Honorable Discharge or General under Honorable Conditions. Veteran must be a current resident of the State of Connecticut.
Fellowship House: The Fellowship House is a residential substance abuse recovery support program, is located on the grounds of the State of Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), providing a variety of substance abuse services to eligible Veterans who have chosen to be clean and sober and whose long term desire is to reintegrate back into the community. It is designed to assist and support eligible Veterans after successful completion of either day or inpatient rehabilitation programs. The services provided are matched to a client's level of medical care, including full medical, psychosocial, psychological, and tertiary psychiatric follow-up. These levels of care are provided while a patient resides in our treatment facility, which is physically separate from the Domicile on grounds. The Fellowship House program is closely interfaced with other service programs at the State Veterans Home of the Department of Veterans Affairs, whose programs primarily focus is on educational and vocational programs, employment counseling, and job placement assistance.
Eligibility: All residents at the Veterans' Home and Hospital are eligible for treatment/supportive rehabilitation services. Admission to the Veterans' Recovery Center Program is coordinated through the regular Rocky Hill admission office procedures AND the admission coordinator for the program. Veterans are eligible for services through the Department of Veterans' Affairs after completing an application for admission AND a successful review by the admissions committee.
US Army Reserve Benefits
State Tax Advantage: Property tax advantage varies by town.
Retired Military Pay: Connecticut exempts 50% of federally taxable military retirement pay from the state income tax. The exemption applies to federal retirement pay to members of the U. S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Army and Air National Guard.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
Property Tax Exemption: A reduction of the assessed value of property for tax purposes is available - $1,500.00 off the assessed value of either real estate or automobile before tax is assessed. Veterans below a certain income level and/or have service connected disabilities are eligible for additional property tax exemptions (up to $10,000 for paraplegics).
Eligibility: Veterans who have at least 90 days of active duty during wartime and are honorably discharged. Surviving spouses of Veterans may also be eligible for this benefit.
Veterans Tuition Waiver: Tuition waivers for certain Veterans (see eligibility requirements below) cover 100% of tuition for General Fund course at all public colleges and universities and 50% for Extension Fund and summer courses at Connecticut State Universities. Veterans may attend Connecticut Public Colleges and Universities tuition free. Connecticut statutes provide that tuition may be waived for qualified Veterans attending the University of Connecticut, Connecticut State Universities and the 12 Community Technical Colleges. Waivers cover only the cost of tuition for credit-bearing undergraduate and graduate programs. Books, student activity and course fees, parking, and room and board are not waived. If a Veteran has elected to receive benefits under the Federal Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (Post 9/11 GI Bill), these are applied first, and the tuition waiver pays the balance
Eligibility: Veterans must be honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, 90 days active Military duty during war, and Connecticut residents at least for one year upon enrolling in college; Veterans must have been accepted in a degree program.
Periods of Service - Only those Veterans who served in the following manner may qualify:
-- Active duty for at least (90) days:
-- World War II (December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946)
-- Korean Hostilities (June 27, 1950 to January 31, 1995)
-- Vietnam (February 28, 1961 to July 1, 1975)
-- Persian Gulf Era (August 2, 1990 - a date to be determined by Presidential proclamation or federal law - Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Iraqi Freedom are included in this category
Engaged in combat or in combat support role in the:
-- Lebanon Conflict (July 1, 1958 to November 1, 1958)
-- Peace Keeping Mission in Lebanon (September 29, 1982 to March 30, 1984)
-- Grenada Invasion (October 25, 1983 to December 15, 1983)
-- Operation Earnest Will (July 24, 1987 to August 1, 1990)
-- Panama Invasion (December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990)
Veterans' Preference: For classified competitive state exams, a wartime Veteran eligible for or receiving VA compensation receives an additional ten (10) points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for VA compensation or pension receives five (5) additional points. A spouse of a qualified Veteran is also eligible for additional points. However, to qualify, the Veteran or spouse must achieve a passing grade on the examination score. If an honorably discharged Veteran has served in a military action for which he/she received, or is entitled to receive, a campaign badge or expeditionary medal, he/she qualifies for five (5) additional points if they receive a passing grade on their examination. On a competitive municipal examination, a wartime Veteran eligible for VA compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives ten (10) additional points. A wartime Veteran not eligible for compensation or a pension, who has received a passing score, receives five (5) additional points.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 15 days paid military leave each year
Eligibility: Members of National Guard or Army Reserve
State Employment: State employees receive 15 days paid military leave each year.
Eligibility: National Guard or Army Reserve Service members.
License and Vehicle Registration Waiver: Connecticut general statues allow for the waiver of license and registration fees for any resident of Connecticut who is on active duty with the armed forces of the US and for two (2) years following the date of their honorable discharge.
Eligibility: National Guard members and Reservists are eligible if they have been called to active duty for any length of time and show their active duty orders. An Application for Waiver of Registration Fee for Someone in the Military (form B-276) must be submitted along with the renewal notice.
Soldiers, Sailors' and Marines' Fund: A state fund administered by the American Legion for the purpose of providing temporary financial assistance. This benefit is for those who are disabled, unemployed, or sick. This fund provides for emergency needs such a clothing, food, medical and surgical aid, and general care and relief. To be eligible for assistance you must demonstrate "need".
Eligibility: A Veteran who is a Connecticut resident with 90 days of active duty service during a statutory wartime period with honorable discharge.
State of Connecticut Veterans' Cemetery: The State Veteran's Cemetery is located in Middletown, Ct.
Eligibility: All Veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty and were released from the Armed Forces under honorable conditions and who either entered the service as a resident of the state of Connecticut or died as a resident of the state of Connecticut and their spouses are eligible for burial. Honorable service in the Armed Forces of any country allied with the United States is also acceptable.
Veterans' Home at Rocky Hill, CT: The department has a health care center with a capacity of 120 beds, a 50-bed substance abuse recovery program, and a 500-bed Residential Program. Professional services are provided by staff physicians, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, OT, PT, RT, dieticians, and social workers are augmented by community specialists, as well as, networking to local VA and major area hospitals when appropriate. By statute, Veterans who are able to pay in whole or in part for programs or services determined by the applicable fee schedule will receive a monthly bill for such services rendered.
Eligibility: Eligibility to enter our facility is restricted to those with an Honorable Discharge or General under Honorable Conditions. Veteran must be a current resident of the State of Connecticut.
Fellowship House: The Fellowship House is a residential substance abuse recovery support program, is located on the grounds of the State of Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), providing a variety of substance abuse services to eligible Veterans who have chosen to be clean and sober and whose long term desire is to reintegrate back into the community. It is designed to assist and support eligible Veterans after successful completion of either day or inpatient rehabilitation programs. The services provided are matched to a client's level of medical care, including full medical, psychosocial, psychological, and tertiary psychiatric follow-up. These levels of care are provided while a patient resides in our treatment facility, which is physically separate from the Domicile on grounds. The Fellowship House program is closely interfaced with other service programs at the State Veterans Home of the Department of Veterans Affairs, whose programs primarily focus is on educational and vocational programs, employment counseling, and job placement assistance.
Eligibility: All residents at the Veterans' Home and Hospital are eligible for treatment/supportive rehabilitation services. Admission to the Veterans' Recovery Center Program is coordinated through the regular Rocky Hill admission office procedures AND the admission coordinator for the program. Veterans are eligible for services through the Department of Veterans' Affairs after completing an application for admission AND a successful review by the admissions committee.
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in Connecticut
Veterans Health Administration
VA Medical Centers
Newington: VA Connecticut Healthcare System Newington Campus, 555 Willard Ave, 860-666-6951
West Haven: VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven Campus, 950 Campbell Ave, 203-932-5711
Community Based Outpatient Clinic
Danbury: Danbury Outpatient Clinic, 7 Germantown Rd, Suite 2B, 203-798-8422
New London: John J. McGuirk VA Outpatient Clinic, 4 Shaw's Cove, Suite 101, 860-437-3611
Stamford: Stamford Outpatient Clinic, 1275 Summer St, Suite 102, 203-325-0649
Waterbury: Waterbury Outpatient Clinic, 95 Scovill St, 203-465-5292
Willimantic: Willimantic Outpatient Clinic, 1320 Main St, Tyler Square (next to Social Security Office), 860-450-7583
Winsted: Winsted Outpatient Clinic, Winsted Health Center, 115 Spencer St, 860-738-6985
Vet Center
Danbury: Danbury Vet Center, 457 North Main St, 203-790-4000 / 877-927-8387
Norwich: Norwich Vet Center, 2 Cliff St, 860-887-1755 / 877-927-8387, Fax: 860-887-2444
Rocky Hill: Hartford Vet Center, 25 Elm St, Suite A, 860-563-8800 / 877-927-8387, Fax: 860-563-8805
West Haven: New Haven Vet Center, 141 Captain Thomas Blvd, 203-932-9899 / 877-927-8387, Fax: 203-937-9419
Veterans Benefits Administration
Regional Office
Newington: Hartford Regional Office, 555 Willard Ave, Building 2E, 1-800-827-1000
Intake Site
Groton: US Naval Submarine Base New London at Groton, Fleet & Family Support Center Bldg 83
Lew London: Coast Guard Academy, 15 Mohegan Ave, Monroe Hall
http://www.nationalguard.com/benefits/additional-guard-benefits/state-benefits
http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=4232&q=509280
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-alabama-iowa#CONNECTICUT
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?State=CT&dnum=ALL
http://search.cga.state.ct.us/dtsearch_lpa.html
http://www.ct.gov/ctva/site/default.asp
Document Review Date: 26 February 2013