State / Territory Benefits - New Mexico
Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Benefits
Summary: New Mexico offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including property tax exemptions, New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program, 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: None
Property Tax Exemption: Veterans may qualify for a $4,000 reduction in the taxable value of their real property for county taxation purposes. This benefit can also be used for a 1/3 discount when registering a vehicle in New Mexico.
Eligibility: Any Veteran who served a minimum of 90 days consecutive active duty (other than for training), has an honorable discharge, and is a legal resident of New Mexico. The benefit is also available to the un-remarried surviving spouse of a Veteran who would have otherwise qualified for this benefit.
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemptions: Veterans and their surviving spouses are able to get a total property tax exemption of their real property taxes.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a legal resident of New Mexico and have been rated 100% service connected disabled by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Veteran must provide a DD214 or equivalent Department of Defense document showing an honorable discharge. Veteran must provide a copy of the official award letter showing their 100% service connected disability rating. Veteran must be an established resident of New Mexico. Surviving spouses must provide a copy of the Veteran's death certificate.
Exemption from Excise Taxes on Vehicle Purchases: Qualified Veterans are exempted from excise taxes when purchasing a new vehicle.
Eligibility: Any Veteran who has suffered the loss, or complete loss of use of one or more limbs due to their service in the military.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 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: 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.
Compensation for State Active Duty: Pay and Allowances will be paid at a minimum E-6 rate.
Eligibility: Army National Guard Service member on state active duty.
Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship Award: The Vietnam Veteran Scholarship will pay full tuition and books at any state funded post-secondary school to eligible Veterans.
Eligibility: Veteran must have established residency in New Mexico for a minimum of ten years, must have an Honorable Discharge, and have been awarded the Vietnam Campaign, or Vietnam Service Medal. To apply, download the application and instructions from the benefits page of the NM DVS web site at http://dvs.state.nm.us. For more information, call the NM DVS State Benefits Division at (505) 827-6374.
Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship: Full tuition waiver at any state funded post-secondary school. A $150 stipend, per semester, will be issued to help with books or fees. Children who shall be selected to be beneficiaries of this fund shall be selected by this the Department of Veteran Services office based on need and merit.
Eligibility: Child must be between the ages of 16 and 26 and enrolled in a state supported school. Veteran of the Armed Forces must have been a resident of New Mexico at the original time of entry into the United States Armed Forces. Veteran must have been killed in action or as a result of such action during a period of armed conflict. Children and spouse of National Guard Members killed while on active duty are also eligible for this scholarship. To apply, download the application and instructions from the benefits page of the NM DVS web site at http://dvs.state.nm.us. For more information, call the NM DVS State Benefits Division at (505) 827-6374
World War II and Korean Veterans High School Diploma: Any WWII or Korean War Veteran who joined the Armed Forces while attending a New Mexico high school prior to graduation is eligible for a high school diploma.
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 15 days military leave per year. An additional 15 days of military leave/year if performing duty in support of OIF or OEF for Army National Guard only.
Eligibility: State employees in the Reserves and the National Guard who are called to active duty shall first be granted any remaining military leave from the fiscal year normally used for training purposes and then be granted an additional fifteen (15) days of military leave, as authorized by the governor. (10.4.7.19 NMAC). Members of organized Reserve units or the National Guard ordered to active duty training shall be given up to fifteen (15) working days of paid military leave per federal fiscal year. These fifteen (15) days are in addition to other authorized leave. (10.4.7.20 NMAC).
New Mexico Personnel Office Veterans Hiring Preference: Veterans honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and applicants currently serving in the National Guard shall have five points added to their final passing numerical scores on screening examinations performed by the State Personnel Office. Veterans honorably discharged with a service-connected disability shall have 10 points added to their final passing numerical scores.
Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Benefits:
Special Vehicle License Plates: law has established six vehicle license plates including Armed Forces Veterans, Ex-Prisoners of War, Pearl Harbor Survivors, Purple Heart, 100% Disabled Veterans, and Medal of Honor, for qualified Veterans of New Mexico. Veterans who qualify for any special Veteran's plate other than the Armed Forces Veteran's plate shall receive up to two plates. They may purchase the Armed Forces Veteran's plate for as many vehicles as are registered under their name.
National Guard Plates: The National Guard plate is available to any person who is an active member of the New Mexico National Guard, upon the submission by the person of proof satisfactory to the division that the person is currently a member of the guard. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for issuance of a National Guard plate. Fee: None for plate or registration.
Ex-Prisoner of War Plates: Prisoner of War (POW) plates are available to any person, or to the surviving spouse of a deceased person, who was held as a prisoner of war by an enemy of the United States during any armed conflict, upon submission of proof satisfactory to the division. If the applicant is the surviving spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate and death certificate must accompany the application. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for issuance of a POW plate. Fee: None for plate or registration.
Pearl Harbor Survivor Plates: A Veteran who can provide proof that they were a member of the Armed Forces on December 7, 1941, stationed at Pearl Harbor, on the Island of Oahu, or offshore at a distance not exceeding three miles. The VA shall confirm proof with the New Mexico chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. No fee other than the registration fee applicable shall be collected for this plate.
Purple Heart Plates: The Veteran must provide proof of the awarding of the Purple Heart. Most DD 214's list this with other medals that have been awarded. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for this plate.
50% Disabled Veteran Plates: The 50% disabled Veteran plate is available for up to two vehicles, including motorcycles, to a Veteran of the armed forces of the United States, upon the submission of proof satisfactory to the department that he was 50% disabled while serving in the armed forces of the United States. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for issuance of 50 percent disabled Veteran plate. A 50% disabled Veteran who would also qualify for the disabled person (HP) plate may elect to have the disability wheelchair symbol included on his disabled Veteran plate.
Gold Star Family Plate: The Gold Star Family License Plate is available for any Family which has had a son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, parent or step-parent killed in combat action. There is a four-plate limit per Family. The first plate is free and all fees will be waived over the lifetime of the recipient. The remaining three plates are also free, but these recipients are responsible for an annual $17 plate registration fee; registration fee waived for first plate issued to the Service member's mother or spouse.
Medal of Honor Plates: The Veteran must provide proof that they were awarded the Medal of Honor. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for this plate.
Women Veteran Plate: The Women Veteran of the armed forces of the United States, as defined in Section 9-22-3-NMSA 1978, or is retired from the National Guard or military reserves, if that person submits proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the National Guard or military reserves. Fee of $17.00 initially no added fee upon regular registration renewal.
Armed Forces Veteran Plate: The Armed Forces Veteran plates are available for any individual who is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States or is retired from the national guard or military reserves, with proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the national guard or military reserves.
Veteran Motorcycle Plate: This plate can be acquired by any motorcycle owner who is a Veteran of the armed forces of the United States, as defined in Section 28-13-7-NMSA 1978, or is retired from the National Guard or military reserves, if that person submits proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the National Guard or military reserves. Fee of $9.00 plus regular registration fee.
Veterans who qualify for any special Veteran's plate other than the Armed Forces Veteran's plate shall receive up to two plates. They may purchase the Armed Forces Veteran's plate for as many vehicles as are registered under their name.
Patriot Plate: Any licensed driver in the state who has a vehicle registered in the state may apply for a Patriot Plate for a onetime fee of $27 plus the regular registration.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Group Insurance: National Guard Association offers up to $50,000.00 /$17.01 month; Coverage of up to$10,000.00/$6.66 for month spouse and children.
Eligibility: New Mexico National Guard members. State reimburses paid SGLI premiums up to $400,000 maximum life insurance for Army National Guard members.
Worker's Compensation: Worker's Compensation equivalent to State employees.
Eligibility: Injury occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Injury/Death Benefits: Worker's Compensation equivalent to State employees less any VA payments received.
Eligibility: Injury/Death occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
Day-Pass and Three Free Camping Nights for Disabled Veterans: Any Veteran who is rated 50% or higher service-connected disabled may obtain an annual free day-use pass and three free nights of camping for personal use only. Qualified veterans can obtain these passes by showing proper identification and proof of disability at any NMDVS field office or download it here. Complete and send the application according to the instructions and attach a copy of your NM drivers license and a copy of the VA award letter showing a rating of 50% or higher.
Free State Monuments and Museums Pass for Disabled Veterans: Any Veteran who is rated 50% or higher service-connected disabled may obtain a free State Monument and Museum pass for personal use only. Qualified Veterans can obtain this pass by showing proper identification and proof of disability at any DVS field office or download it here.
Free Hunting and Fishing: Any 100% disabled Veteran qualifies for a free lifetime general hunting and fishing license. This DAV Identification card issued by the Department permits the holder to fish, hunt small game and to receive a deer hunting license, free of charge, whether through the state draw or for hunting on private land.
Eligibility: The Veteran must first obtain a Disabled American Veteran (DAV) card and enter the number on the application form.
Reduced Fee Licenses for Active Duty Military: A 4-day temporary active-duty small game license is available for $16.00 and allows the licensee to hunt game birds, except wild turkey, and squirrel during the period of time indicated on the license. A 5-day temporary active-duty fishing license is available for $12.00 and allows the licensee to fish for game fish during the period indicated on the license. New Mexico residents who are active duty Service members are eligible to purchase a discounted Game-hunting and Fishing license for $20.00.
Eligibility: New Mexico residents who are active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces or the National Guard and who are on leave for 30 days or less are eligible for reduced-fee licenses.
Veterans Military Honors: The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services coordinates with military and local Veteran organizations to provide an honor guard and bugler for military honors funerals for deceased Veterans.
Homeless and At-Risk Veteran Services: Through contracts with the New Mexico Veterans Integration Center (NMVIC) in Albuquerque and Mesilla Valley Community of Hope in Las Cruces, The Department of Veterans Services provides transition services for homeless and at risk NM Veterans.
New Mexico Veterans Home: Any Veteran with an honorable discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States shall be eligible for admission to the New Mexico Veterans Home in Truth or Consequences (575) 894-4297, or Ft. Bayard State Veteran's Home, Santa Clara (575) 537-8636.
Veterans' and Family Support Services: The Veterans' and Family Support Services program is a state-funded initiative to provide comprehensive case management and behavioral health services for New Mexico Veterans and their Families who are not eligible for or who cannot access federally funded services.
VFSS Toll-free (state-wide, 24/7)
1-877-929-9797
NM Crisis Help Line
1-888-920-6333
VA Suicide Hotline
1-800-273-8255
New Mexico National Cemeteries: There are two National cemeteries located in New Mexico, the Santa Fe National Cemetery and the Fort Bayard National Cemetery. Burial benefits available for spouses and dependents buried in a national cemetery include burial with the Veteran, and the spouse or dependents name and date of birth and death will be inscribed on the Veteran's headstone, at no cost to the family. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried, even if they predecease the Veteran. To schedule a burial: Fax all discharge documentation to the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-866-900-6417 and follow-up with a phone call to 1-800-535-1117.
Eligibility: Veterans discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable and Service members who die while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, as well as spouses and dependent children of Veterans and active duty Service members, may be eligible for VA burial and memorial benefits including burial in a national cemetery, a headstone to mark the grave of a Veteran interred in a private cemetery or a Presidential Memorial Certificate for loved ones. The Veteran does not have to die before a spouse or dependent child can be eligible. With certain exceptions, active duty service beginning after Sept. 7, 1980, as an enlisted person, and after Oct. 16, 1981, as an officer, must be for a minimum of 24 consecutive months or the full period of active duty (as in the case of reservists or National Guard members called to active duty for a limited duration). Active duty for training, by itself, while serving in the reserves or National Guard, is not sufficient to confer eligibility. Reservists and National Guard members, as well as their spouses and dependent children, are eligible if they were entitled to retired pay at the time of death, or would have been upon reaching requisite age.
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemptions: Veterans and their surviving spouses are able to get a total property tax exemption of their real property taxes.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a legal resident of New Mexico and have been rated 100% service connected disabled by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Veteran must provide a DD214 or equivalent Department of Defense document showing an honorable discharge. Veteran must provide a copy of the official award letter showing their 100% service connected disability rating. Veteran must be an established resident of New Mexico. Surviving spouses must provide a copy of the Veteran's death certificate.
Exemption from Excise Taxes on Vehicle Purchases: Qualified Veterans are exempted from excise taxes when purchasing a new vehicle.
Eligibility: Any Veteran who has suffered the loss, or complete loss of use of one or more limbs due to their service in the military.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 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: Not subject to federal or state taxes
Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship Award: The Vietnam Veteran Scholarship will pay full tuition and books at any state funded post-secondary school to eligible Veterans.
Eligibility: Veteran must have established residency in New Mexico for a minimum of ten years, must have an Honorable Discharge, and have been awarded the Vietnam Campaign, or Vietnam Service Medal. To apply, download the application and instructions from the benefits page of the NM DVS web site at http://dvs.state.nm.us. For more information, call the NM DVS State Benefits Division at (505) 827-6374.
Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship: Full tuition waiver at any state funded post-secondary school. A $150 stipend, per semester, will be issued to help with books or fees. Children who shall be selected to be beneficiaries of this fund shall be selected by this the Department of Veteran Services office based on need and merit.
Eligibility: Child must be between the ages of 16 and 26 and enrolled in a state supported school. Veteran of the Armed Forces must have been a resident of New Mexico at the original time of entry into the United States Armed Forces. Veteran must have been killed in action or as a result of such action during a period of armed conflict. Children and spouse of National Guard Members killed while on active duty are also eligible for this scholarship. To apply, download the application and instructions from the benefits page of the NM DVS web site at http://dvs.state.nm.us. For more information, call the NM DVS State Benefits Division at (505) 827-6374
World War II and Korean Veterans High School Diploma: Any WWII or Korean War Veteran who joined the Armed Forces while attending a New Mexico high school prior to graduation is eligible for a high school diploma.
New Mexico Personnel Office Veterans Hiring Preference: Veterans honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and applicants currently serving in the National Guard shall have five points added to their final passing numerical scores on screening examinations performed by the State Personnel Office. Veterans honorably discharged with a service-connected disability shall have 10 points added to their final passing numerical scores.
50% Disabled Veteran Plates: The 50% disabled Veteran plate is available for up to two vehicles, including motorcycles, to a Veteran of the armed forces of the United States, upon the submission of proof satisfactory to the department that he was 50% disabled while serving in the armed forces of the United States. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for issuance of 50 percent disabled Veteran plate. A 50% disabled Veteran who would also qualify for the disabled person (HP) plate may elect to have the disability wheelchair symbol included on his disabled Veteran plate.
Day-Pass and Three Free Camping Nights for Disabled Veterans: Any Veteran who is rated 50% or higher service-connected disabled may obtain an annual free day-use pass and three free nights of camping for personal use only. Qualified veterans can obtain these passes by showing proper identification and proof of disability at any NMDVS field office or download it here. Complete and send the application according to the instructions and attach a copy of your NM drivers license and a copy of the VA award letter showing a rating of 50% or higher.
Free State Monument and Museums Pass for Disabled Veterans: Any Veteran who is rated 50% or higher service-connected disabled may obtain a free State Monument and Museum pass for personal use only. Qualified Veterans can obtain this pass by showing proper identification and proof of disability at any DVS field office or download it here.
Free Hunting and Fishing: Any 100% disabled Veteran qualifies for a free lifetime general hunting and fishing license. This DAV Identification card issued by the Department permits the holder to fish, hunt small game and to receive a deer hunting license, free of charge, whether through the state draw or for hunting on private land.
Eligibility: The Veteran must first obtain a Disabled American Veteran (DAV) card and enter the number on the application form.
Veterans Military Honors: The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services coordinates with military and local Veteran organizations to provide an honor guard and bugler for military honors funerals for deceased Veterans.
Homeless and At-Risk Veteran Services: Through contracts with the New Mexico Veterans Integration Center (NMVIC) in Albuquerque and Mesilla Valley Community of Hope in Las Cruces, The Department of Veterans Services provides transition services for homeless and at risk NM Veterans.
New Mexico Veterans Home: Any Veteran with an honorable discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States shall be eligible for admission to the New Mexico Veterans Home in Truth or Consequences (575) 894-4297, or Ft. Bayard State Veteran's Home, Santa Clara (575) 537-8636.
Veterans' and Family Support Services: The Veterans' and Family Support Services program is a state-funded initiative to provide comprehensive case management and behavioral health services for New Mexico Veterans and their Families who are not eligible for or who cannot access federally funded services.
VFSS Toll-free
(state-wide, 24/7)
1-877-929-9797
NM Crisis Help Line
1-888-920-6333
VA Suicide Hotline
1-800-273-8255
Property Tax Exemption: Veterans may qualify for a $4,000 reduction in the taxable value of their real property for county taxation purposes. This benefit can also be used for a 1/3 discount when registering a vehicle in New Mexico.
Eligibility: Any Veteran who served a minimum of 90 days consecutive active duty (other than for training), has an honorable discharge, and is a legal resident of New Mexico. The benefit is also available to the un-remarried surviving spouse of a Veteran who would have otherwise qualified for this benefit.
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemptions: Veterans and their surviving spouses are able to get a total property tax exemption of their real property taxes.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a legal resident of New Mexico and have been rated 100% service connected disabled by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Veteran must provide a DD214 or equivalent Department of Defense document showing an honorable discharge. Veteran must provide a copy of the official award letter showing their 100% service connected disability rating. Veteran must be an established resident of New Mexico. Surviving spouses must provide a copy of the Veteran's death certificate.
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.
Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship: Full tuition waiver at any state funded post-secondary school. A $150 stipend, per semester, will be issued to help with books or fees. Children who shall be selected to be beneficiaries of this fund shall be selected by this the Department of Veteran Services office based on need and merit.
Eligibility: Child must be between the ages of 16 and 26 and enrolled in a state supported school. Veteran of the Armed Forces must have been a resident of New Mexico at the original time of entry into the United States Armed Forces. Veteran must have been killed in action or as a result of such action during a period of armed conflict. Children and spouse of National Guard Members killed while on active duty are also eligible for this scholarship. To apply, download the application and instructions from the benefits page of the NM DVS web site at http://dvs.state.nm.us. For more information, call the NM DVS State Benefits Division at (505) 827-6374
Gold Star Family Plate: The Gold Star Family License Plate is available for any Family which has had a son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, parent or step-parent killed in combat action. There is a four-plate limit per Family. The first plate is free and all fees will be waived over the lifetime of the recipient. The remaining three plates are also free, but these recipients are responsible for an annual $17 plate registration fee; registration fee waived for first plate issued to the Service member's mother or spouse.
Ex-Prisoner of War Plates: Prisoner of War (POW) plates are available to any person, or to the surviving spouse of a deceased person, who was held as a prisoner of war by an enemy of the United States during any armed conflict, upon submission of proof satisfactory to the division. If the applicant is the surviving spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate and death certificate must accompany the application. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for issuance of a POW plate. Fee: None for plate or registration.
New Mexico National Cemeteries: There are two National cemeteries located in New Mexico, the Santa Fe National Cemetery and the Fort Bayard National Cemetery. Burial benefits available for spouses and dependents buried in a national cemetery include burial with the Veteran, and the spouse or dependents name and date of birth and death will be inscribed on the Veteran's headstone, at no cost to the family. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried, even if they predecease the Veteran. To schedule a burial: Fax all discharge documentation to the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-866-900-6417 and follow-up with a phone call to 1-800-535-1117.
Eligibility: Veterans discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable and Service members who die while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, as well as spouses and dependent children of Veterans and active duty Service members, may be eligible for VA burial and memorial benefits including burial in a national cemetery, a headstone to mark the grave of a Veteran interred in a private cemetery or a Presidential Memorial Certificate for loved ones. The Veteran does not have to die before a spouse or dependent child can be eligible. With certain exceptions, active duty service beginning after Sept. 7, 1980, as an enlisted person, and after Oct. 16, 1981, as an officer, must be for a minimum of 24 consecutive months or the full period of active duty (as in the case of reservists or National Guard members called to active duty for a limited duration). Active duty for training, by itself, while serving in the reserves or National Guard, is not sufficient to confer eligibility. Reservists and National Guard members, as well as their spouses and dependent children, are eligible if they were entitled to retired pay at the time of death, or would have been upon reaching requisite age.
Compensation for State Active Duty: Pay and Allowances will be paid at a minimum E-6 rate.
Eligibility: Army National Guard Service member on state active duty.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 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.
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 15 days military leave per year. An additional 15 days of military leave/year if performing duty in support of OIF or OEF for Army National Guard only.
Eligibility: State employees in the Reserves and the National Guard who are called to active duty shall first be granted any remaining military leave from the fiscal year normally used for training purposes and then be granted an additional fifteen (15) days of military leave, as authorized by the governor. (10.4.7.19 NMAC). Members of organized Reserve units or the National Guard ordered to active duty training shall be given up to fifteen (15) working days of paid military leave per federal fiscal year. These fifteen (15) days are in addition to other authorized leave. (10.4.7.20 NMAC).
New Mexico Personnel Office Veterans Hiring Preference: Veterans honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and applicants currently serving in the National Guard shall have five points added to their final passing numerical scores on screening examinations performed by the State Personnel Office. Veterans honorably discharged with a service-connected disability shall have 10 points added to their final passing numerical scores.
Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship: Full tuition waiver at any state funded post-secondary school. A $150 stipend, per semester, will be issued to help with books or fees. Children who shall be selected to be beneficiaries of this fund shall be selected by this the Department of Veteran Services office based on need and merit.
Eligibility: Child must be between the ages of 16 and 26 and enrolled in a state supported school. Veteran of the Armed Forces must have been a resident of New Mexico at the original time of entry into the United States Armed Forces. Veteran must have been killed in action or as a result of such action during a period of armed conflict. Children and spouse of National Guard Members killed while on active duty are also eligible for this scholarship. To apply, download the application and instructions from the benefits page of the NM DVS web site at http://dvs.state.nm.us. For more information, call the NM DVS State Benefits Division at (505) 827-6374
National Guard Plates: The National Guard plate is available to any person who is an active member of the New Mexico National Guard, upon the submission by the person of proof satisfactory to the division that the person is currently a member of the guard. No fee, including the regular registration fee, shall be collected for issuance of a National Guard plate. Fee: None for plate or registration.
Women Veteran Plate: The Women Veteran of the armed forces of the United States, as defined in Section 9-22-3-NMSA 1978, or is retired from the National Guard or military reserves, if that person submits proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the National Guard or military reserves. Fee of $17.00 initially no added fee upon regular registration renewal.
Armed Forces Veteran Plate: Armed Forces Veterans plates are available for any individual who is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States or is retired from the national guard or military reserves, with proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the national guard or military reserves.
Group Insurance: National Guard Association offers up to $50,000.00 /$17.01 month; Coverage of up to$10,000.00/$6.66 for month spouse and children.
Eligibility: New Mexico National Guard members. State reimburses paid SGLI premiums up to $400,000 maximum life insurance for Army National Guard members.
Worker's Compensation: Worker's Compensation equivalent to State employees.
Eligibility: Injury occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Injury/Death Benefits: Worker's Compensation equivalent to State employees less any VA payments received.
Eligibility: Injury/Death occurs while serving on State Active Duty.
Reduced Fee Licenses for Active Duty Military: A 4-day temporary active-duty small game license is available for $16.00 and allows the licensee to hunt game birds, except wild turkey, and squirrel during the period of time indicated on the license. A 5-day temporary active-duty fishing license is available for $12.00 and allows the licensee to fish for game fish during the period indicated on the license. New Mexico residents who are active duty Service members are eligible to purchase a discounted Game-hunting and Fishing license for $20.00.
Eligibility: New Mexico residents who are active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces or the National Guard and who are on leave for 30 days or less are eligible for reduced-fee licenses.
Veterans Military Honors: The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services coordinates with military and local Veteran organizations to provide an honor guard and bugler for military honors funerals for deceased Veterans.
Homeless and At-Risk Veteran Services: Through contracts with the New Mexico Veterans Integration Center (NMVIC) in Albuquerque and Mesilla Valley Community of Hope in Las Cruces, The Department of Veterans Services provides transition services for homeless and at risk NM Veterans.
New Mexico Veterans Home: Any Veteran with an honorable discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States shall be eligible for admission to the New Mexico Veterans Home in Truth or Consequences (505) 894-4297, or the Veteran's Wing at the Ft. Bayard Hospital (505) 537-3302.
Veterans' and Family Support Services: The Veterans' and Family Support Services program is a state-funded initiative to provide comprehensive case management and behavioral health services for New Mexico Veterans and their Families who are not eligible for or who cannot access federally funded services.
VFSS Toll-free
(state-wide, 24/7)
1-877-929-9797
NM Crisis Help Line
1-888-920-6333
VA Suicide Hotline
1-800-273-8255
New Mexico National Cemeteries: There are two National cemeteries located in New Mexico, the Santa Fe National Cemetery and the Fort Bayard National Cemetery. Burial benefits available for spouses and dependents buried in a national cemetery include burial with the Veteran, and the spouse or dependents name and date of birth and death will be inscribed on the Veteran's headstone, at no cost to the family. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried, even if they predecease the Veteran. To schedule a burial: Fax all discharge documentation to the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-866-900-6417 and follow-up with a phone call to 1-800-535-1117.
Eligibility: Veterans discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable and Service members who die while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, as well as spouses and dependent children of Veterans and active duty Service members, may be eligible for VA burial and memorial benefits including burial in a national cemetery, a headstone to mark the grave of a Veteran interred in a private cemetery or a Presidential Memorial Certificate for loved ones. The Veteran does not have to die before a spouse or dependent child can be eligible. With certain exceptions, active duty service beginning after Sept. 7, 1980, as an enlisted person, and after Oct. 16, 1981, as an officer, must be for a minimum of 24 consecutive months or the full period of active duty (as in the case of reservists or National Guard members called to active duty for a limited duration). Active duty for training, by itself, while serving in the reserves or National Guard, is not sufficient to confer eligibility. Reservists and National Guard members, as well as their spouses and dependent children, are eligible if they were entitled to retired pay at the time of death, or would have been upon reaching requisite age.
State Tax Advantage: None
Property Tax Exemption: Veterans may qualify for a $4,000 reduction in the taxable value of their real property for county taxation purposes. This benefit can also be used for a 1/3 discount when registering a vehicle in New Mexico.
Eligibility: Any Veteran who served a minimum of 90 days consecutive active duty (other than for training), has an honorable discharge, and is a legal resident of New Mexico. The benefit is also available to the un-remarried surviving spouse of a Veteran who would have otherwise qualified for this benefit.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 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: Not subject to federal or state taxes
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 15 days military leave per year. An additional 15 days of military leave/year if performing duty in support of OIF or OEF for Army National Guard only.
Eligibility: State employees in the Reserves and the National Guard who are called to active duty shall first be granted any remaining military leave from the fiscal year normally used for training purposes and then be granted an additional fifteen (15) days of military leave, as authorized by the governor. (10.4.7.19 NMAC). Members of organized Reserve units or the National Guard ordered to active duty training shall be given up to fifteen (15) working days of paid military leave per federal fiscal year. These fifteen (15) days are in addition to other authorized leave. (10.4.7.20 NMAC).
New Mexico Personnel Office Veterans Hiring Preference: Veterans honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and applicants currently serving in the National Guard shall have five points added to their final passing numerical scores on screening examinations performed by the State Personnel Office. Veterans honorably discharged with a service-connected disability shall have 10 points added to their final passing numerical scores.
Women Veteran Plate: The Women Veteran of the armed forces of the United States, as defined in Section 9-22-3-NMSA 1978, or is retired from the National Guard or military reserves, if that person submits proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the National Guard or military reserves. Fee of $17.00 initially no added fee upon regular registration renewal.
Armed Forces Veteran Plate: Armed Forces Veterans plates are available for any individual who is a veteran of the armed forces of the United States or is retired from the national guard or military reserves, with proof satisfactory to the department of honorable discharge from the armed forces or of retirement from the national guard or military reserves.
Veterans Military Honors: The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services coordinates with military and local Veteran organizations to provide an honor guard and bugler for military honors funerals for deceased Veterans.
Homeless and At-Risk Veteran Services: Through contracts with the New Mexico Veterans Integration Center (NMVIC) in Albuquerque and Mesilla Valley Community of Hope in Las Cruces, The Department of Veterans Services provides transition services for homeless and at risk NM Veterans.
New Mexico Veterans Home: Any Veteran with an honorable discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States shall be eligible for admission to the New Mexico Veterans Home in Truth or Consequences (505) 894-4297, or the Veteran's Wing at the Ft. Bayard Hospital (505) 537-3302.
Veterans' and Family Support Services: The Veterans' and Family Support Services program is a state-funded initiative to provide comprehensive case management and behavioral health services for New Mexico Veterans and their Families who are not eligible for or who cannot access federally funded services.
VFSS Toll-free
(state-wide, 24/7)
1-877-929-9797
NM Crisis Help Line
1-888-920-6333
VA Suicide Hotline
1-800-273-8255
New Mexico National Cemeteries: There are two National cemeteries located in New Mexico, the Santa Fe National Cemetery and the Fort Bayard National Cemetery. Burial benefits available for spouses and dependents buried in a national cemetery include burial with the Veteran, and the spouse or dependents name and date of birth and death will be inscribed on the Veteran's headstone, at no cost to the family. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried, even if they predecease the Veteran. To schedule a burial: Fax all discharge documentation to the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 1-866-900-6417 and follow-up with a phone call to 1-800-535-1117.
Eligibility: Veterans discharged from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable and Service members who die while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, as well as spouses and dependent children of Veterans and active duty Service members, may be eligible for VA burial and memorial benefits including burial in a national cemetery, a headstone to mark the grave of a Veteran interred in a private cemetery or a Presidential Memorial Certificate for loved ones. The Veteran does not have to die before a spouse or dependent child can be eligible. With certain exceptions, active duty service beginning after Sept. 7, 1980, as an enlisted person, and after Oct. 16, 1981, as an officer, must be for a minimum of 24 consecutive months or the full period of active duty (as in the case of reservists or National Guard members called to active duty for a limited duration). Active duty for training, by itself, while serving in the reserves or National Guard, is not sufficient to confer eligibility. Reservists and National Guard members, as well as their spouses and dependent children, are eligible if they were entitled to retired pay at the time of death, or would have been upon reaching requisite age.
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Veterans Health Administration
VA Health Care System
Albuquerque: New Mexico VA Health Care System, 1501 San Pedro SE, 505-265-1711 / 800-465-8262
Community Based Outpatient Clinic
Alamogordo: Alamogordo CCBOC, 3199 N. White Sands Blvd., Ste D10, 515-437-9195
Artesia: Artesia Clinic, 1700 West Main, 575-746-3531
Clovis: Clovis CBOC, 921 East Llano Estacado, 806-355-9703 / 1-800-687-8262
Espanola: Espanola CCBOC, 105 S. Coronado Ave, 505-367-4213
Farmington: Farmington CBOC, 1001 West Broadway, Suite C, 505-326-4383
Gallup: Gallup CBOC, 520 State Hwy 564, 505-256-2808
Hobbs: Hobbs CBOC, Broadmoor Tower, 1601 N. Turner, 575-391-0354
Las Cruces: Las Cruces CBOC, 1635 Don Roser, 575-522-1241 / 800-659-0311
Las Vegas: Las Vegas CCBOC, 624 University Ave, 505-425-1910
Raton: Raton CBOC, 1275 South 2nd St, 575-445-2391
Rio Rancho: Northwest Metro, 1760 Grande Blvd SE
Santa Fe: Santa Fe CBOC, 2213 Brothers Rd, Ste 600, 505-986-8645
Silver City: Silver City Clinic, 1302 East 32nd St, 575-538-2921
Taos: Taos CCBOC, 1353 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, 242-751-0328
Truth or Consequences: Truth or Consequences CCBOC, 1960 North Date St, 575-894-7662
Vet Center
Albuquerque: Albuquerque Vet Center, 1600 Mountain Rd NW, 505-346-6562 / 877-927-8387
Farmington: Farmington Vet Center, 4251 E. Main Ste A, 505-327-9684 / 877-927-8387
Las Cruces: Las Cruces Vet Center, 230 S. Water St, 575-523-9826 / 877-927-8387
Santa Fe: Santa Fe Vet Center, 2209 Brothers Rd Ste 110, 505-988-6562 / 877-927-8387
Veterans Benefits Administration
Regional Office
Albuquerque: Albuquerque Regional Office, 500 Gold Ave, S.W., 800-827-1000
Intake Site
Kirtland AFB: Kirtland Air Force Base, Airman & Family Readiness Center Support Building 20245, Ste 126
http://www.dvs.state.nm.us/benefits.html
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-kansas-new-mexico#NEWMEXICO
http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/apps_permit/index.htm#special_apps_permits
http://www.nmvic.org/default.html
http://www.nmcpr.state.nm.us/nmac/parts/title10/10.004.0007.pdf
http://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/Vehicles/Pages/License-Plates.aspx#Military
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?STATE=NM&dnum=ALL
Document Review Date: 8 January 2013