State / Territory Benefits - New York
Division of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Summary: New York offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including Property Tax Exemptions, New York National Guard Tuition Program, Military Service Recognition Scholarship, Compensation for State Active Duty, Employment Assistance, Civil Service Preference, Special Vehicle License Plates, as well as Hunting, Fishing license and State Park privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
State Tax Advantage: Retired military pay not subject to state income tax.
- If you are a New York State resident and your permanent home (domicile) was in New York State when you entered the military but you were assigned to duty outside the state, you are still a New York State resident. Your military pay is subject to New York State income tax to the same extent it is subject to federal income tax.
- If your permanent home (domicile) was in New York State when you entered the military but you meet the conditions for nonresident status, your military pay is not subject to New York State income tax.
- If your permanent home was not New York State when you entered the military but you were assigned to duty in New York State, you do not become a New York State resident even if you have a permanent place of abode here. You are a nonresident and your military pay is not subject to New York State income tax.
If you are a nonresident, other income that you receive from New York State sources (including your spouse's income) may be subject to tax.
These rules apply for both New York City and Yonkers income tax purposes.
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: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Military Pensions: Pension payments received by retired military personnel or their beneficiaries are totally exempt from New York State, New York City, and Yonkers income taxes.
Property Tax Exemption: NYS Veterans' Property Tax Exemption provides a partial exemption on real property taxes to Veterans' of defined periods of war, Veterans who received expeditionary medals or certain Family members, as allowed by law.
There are three levels of benefits, depending on whether the Veteran served in combat and/or was disabled. Exemptions are also subject to dollar limitations, pursuant to state and local law.
- Section 458 of the Real Property Tax Law provides a partial exemption on property owned by a Veteran that has been purchased with pension, bonus, or insurance monies - referred to as "eligible funds."
- Section 458-a of the Real Property Tax Law is available only for residential property of Veterans who served during wartime or received an expeditionary medal - referred to as "alternative Veterans' exemption."
- Section 458-b of the Real Property Tax Law is available only for residential property of Veterans who served during the Cold War period - referred to as "Cold War exemption"
Who is eligible for the Property Tax Exemption?
To be eligible, an applicant must be one of the following:
- A qualified Veteran
- The spouse of a qualified Veteran (un-remarried surviving spouse)
New York Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program: The Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program pays 100% of the cost of tuition only for credit bearing courses at state institutions. Minimum enrollment for part-time is at least six, but less than twelve, credit hours per semester or at least four, but less than eight, semester hours per quarter at an institution. Members may receive no more than eight semesters of full-time study, four academic years, or ten semesters if the program requires five years to complete. Members may not receive more than sixteen semesters of part-time study. Funds are limited and applications should be submitted quickly.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member upon his or her enrollment in a degree-producing curriculum in any institution.
Veterans Tuition Awards: For full-time and part-time study, a recipient shall receive an award of up to the full cost of undergraduate tuition for New York state residents at the State University of New York, or actual tuition charged, whichever is less. Full-time study is defined as twelve or more credits per semester (or the equivalent) at a degree-granting institution, or twenty-four or more hours per week in a vocational training program. For part-time study, awards will be prorated by credit hour. Part-time study is defined as at least three but fewer than twelve credits per semester (or the equivalent) at a degree-granting institution, or six to twenty-three hours per week in a vocational training program.
For the 2011 - 2012 academic years, the maximum annual full-time award is set at $5,295 or tuition, whichever is less. For part-time study the initial award figure is estimated at the cost of full-time attendance. Upon certification of the student's part-time status the award is recalculated according to the number of credits certified and the student's actual part-time tuition liability. If a Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) award is also received for full time study only, the combined academic year awards cannot exceed tuition. Thus, the TAP award may be reduced accordingly.
Eligibility: Eligible students are those who are New York State residents discharged under honorable conditions from the U.S. Armed forces and who are:
o Vietnam Veterans who served in Indochina between February 28, 1961 and May 7, 1975.
o Persian Gulf Veterans who served in the Persian Gulf on or after August 2, 1990.
o Afghanistan Veterans who served in Afghanistan during hostilities on or after September 11, 2001.
o Veterans of the armed forces of the United States who served in hostilities that occurred after February 28, 1961 as evidenced by receipt of an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal or a Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal.
Veteran must also:
o Establish eligibility by applying to HESC.
o Be New York State residents.
o Be US Citizens or eligible noncitizens.
o Be matriculated full or part- time at an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting institution in New York State or in an approved vocational training program in New York State.
o Have applied for the Tuition Assistance Program for full-time undergraduate or graduate study.
Military Service Recognition Scholarship: Provides financial aid to children, spouses, and financial dependents of members of the armed forces of the United States or state organized militia who, at any time on or after Aug. 2, 1990, while New York State residents, died or became severely and permanently disabled while engaged in hostilities or training for hostilities.
Eligibility: Members of the armed forces or state organized militia, and their dependents who, while New York State residents in service in the Armed Forces of the United States or state organized militia, at any time on or after Aug 2, 1990,
- Died, or became severely and permanently disabled as a result of injury or illness suffered or incurred, or are classified as missing in action in a combat theater or zone of operations; or who died as a result of injuries incurred in these areas; OR
- Died, or became severely and permanently disabled as result of injury or illness suffered or incurred during military training operations in preparation for duty in a combat theater or combat zone of operations.
NYS Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans: Provides $450 per year to candidates up to five years depending on normal length of undergraduate program.
Eligibility: Children of Veterans who are deceased, 40% or more disabled, former POW, or MIA as a result of service during certain specified conflicts. Candidates must be a legal NY resident at the time of application and parent must have been a legal NY resident at the time of induction, death, or disability.
Military Residency Waiver: New York State residency eligibility requirement for recipients of awards administered by Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) is waived for a member, or the spouse or dependent of a member, of the armed forces of the United States on full-time active duty and stationed in this state.
Operation Recognition: allows certain Veterans to earn high school diplomas if they left school without graduating. Section 305 of the NYS Education Law created Operation Recognition to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam Veterans who left school before graduation by awarding them a high school diploma.
Eligibility: To be eligible, an applicant must meet the following requirements:
-The applicant must have been a member of the US Armed Forces, and
-Engaged in qualified service during one of the below periods:
- World War II - December 7, 1941 - December 31, 1946
- Korea - June 27, 1950 - January 31, 1955
- Vietnam - May 1, 1961 - April 30, 1975
-Received a satisfactory discharge, and
-A resident of New York State
Employment Assistance: Section 242 of the New York State Military Law provides 30 calendar days or 22 workdays of military leave with full pay in any calendar year or continuous period of ordered duty that spans more than one calendar year. In addition, the State provides continuation of Family coverage under the State's health insurance plan, at no cost to the enrollee, for the period of federally ordered military duty or 12 months minus the period of time the employee is in full pay status. Under the provisions of the " Supplemental Military Leave" agreement, after leave at full pay benefits provided under Section 242 of the Military Law are exhausted, eligible employees will receive the difference between their regular state salary and their regular military pay for the time period covered by the agreement.
Eligibility: State employees who are called up for active duty in the Reserves or National Guard.
Civil Service Preference: The State Constitution requires that examinations for appointment or promotion in State service be competitive, so far as practicable. At the same time, it contains a significant exception to the strict rule of competition by giving additional credits in competitive examinations to war Veterans. Disabled Veterans receive 10 points additional credit on their examination scores in open-competitive examinations and five points in promotion examinations. Non-disabled Veterans are granted five points in open-competitive examinations and two and one-half points in promotion examinations. In every case, however, the Veteran must attain a passing mark on an examination before additional credits may be added to his/her score. The additional credits may not be applied to raise a failing grade to a passing one. Further information on jobs with New York State agencies is available at www.cs.state.ny.us or by calling (518) 457-6216 or by email at examinfo@cs.state.ny.us.
Eligibility: Veterans eligible for the credits are those who:
- were members of the Armed Forces of the United States;
- served on active duty for other than training purposes in time of war;
- were discharged honorably, released under honorable circumstances, or will be honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances at the time of appointment; and
- are residents of New York State at the time of application for appointment, promotion or retention, as the case may be.
Employment and Training: As guaranteed by the New York State Veterans Bill of Rights for Employments Services, Veterans are entitled to priority service at all New York State Department of Labor offices in referrals to jobs, as well as for employment counseling, vocational testing and other services. Veterans receive special priority for all services and training funded by the Job Training Partnership Act.
Eligibility: A Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
The Governor's Program to Hire Veterans with Disabilities provides employment opportunities in State service for Veterans. Section 55-c of the NYS Civil Service Law permits qualified Veterans to apply for Civil Service positions without taking a civil service exam. Veterans with disabilities are not required to take a written or oral examination, but they must meet the educational and/or experience qualifications for the position.
Eligibility: Veterans of the US Armed Forces who served on active duty, other than for training, during: (Eligible service during earlier wars is also defined in the law)
- Vietnam - February 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975
- Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990 - Until hostilities end;
- Lebanon - June 1, 1983 - December 1, 1987
- Grenada - October 23, 1983 - November 21, 1983
- Panama - December 20, 1989 - January 31, 1990
- Recipients of certain Expeditionary Medals of the armed forces, Navy or Marine Corps are also eligible. Eligible service during earlier wars is also defined in the law. Learn More.
- Veterans must have a disability; 20% Disability rating by the VA -OR- Disability certified by the Employee Health Service of the Dept of Civil Service - OR- Be a Purple Heart Medal recipient.
Re-employment: Application to former employer for restoration to pre-military position, other than temporary employment, should be made within 90 days of separation. Job reinstatement is for like seniority, status and pay. Reservists after initial training must seek reinstatement within 31 days. Compensation for State Active Duty: Pay and Allowances will be a minimum of $100.00 per day.
Eligibility: Army National Guard Service member on state active duty.
Division of Motor Vehicles Benefits:
Special Vehicle License Plates: New York State law requires you to pay two different fees; an initial fee when you order a custom plate and an annual fee when you renew your registration. When you renew your vehicle registration, you must pay your registration fee and the annual custom plate fee. Most vehicle registrations in NYS are issued for two years. Not all specialized military plates are listed below.
Air Force Reserve: Member must provide letter from Commanding Officer or copy of active military ID. Initial Custom Plate Fee is $38.75 with no annual plate renewal fee.
Army National Guard: Member must provide a letter from Commanding Officer. Distinctive National Guard license plates for $38.75 initial purchase with no charge thereafter.
Eligibility: Air National Guard member.
Airborne: Member must provide a copy of Airborne Association membership card, or copy of DD-214, or copy of Airborne ID card. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
American Legion: Member must provide copy of current membership card. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Army National Guard: Member must provide a letter from Commanding Officer. Distinctive National Guard license plates for $38.75 initial purchase with no charge thereafter.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Army Reserve: Member must provide a letter from Commanding Officer or copy of active military ID. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Eligibility: Army Reserve member
Coast Guard Auxiliary: Member must provide a copy of membership card. $47.50 Initial Custom Plate Fee and $15 Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Coast Guard Reserve: Letter from Commanding Officer of copy of active Coast Guard Reserve ID. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee
Combat Infantrymen: Copy of DD214; DMV order form and approval from NYS Commander. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Congressional Medal of Honor: Applicant must show proof of award. No fees.
Disabled American Veteran: Applicant must have approval by organization. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Disabled Veteran: Applicant must present copy of DD-214 or discharge papers; proof of service-related disability from Veterans Administration and a letter from medical doctor or form MV-664-1. $28.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Eighth Air Force Historical Society: Applicant must be an active member and present a copy of the membership card. $15.00 of the annual fee supports the Eighth Air Force Historical Society Fund for Veterans' counseling services. $43.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and $15.00 Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Former Prisoner of War: Applicant must present copy of DD-214 or discharge papers or letter from Veterans Administration verifying Former POW status. No fees.
40 & 8 (The Grande Voiture du New York, La Societe Des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux): Applicant must present copy of current membership card. $60.00 Initial Custom Plate Fee and $31.25 Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Gold Star Mothers: Applicant must present official documentation stating child died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. $28.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Jewish War Veterans of America: Applicant must present proof of membership in the Jewish War Veterans of America Association. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Korean War Veterans: Applicant must present copy of DD-214 or discharge papers or letter from Veterans Administration verifying service dates between 6/27/50 - 1/31/55. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Marine Corps League: Letter from MCL Paymaster. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Marine Corps Reserve: Letter from Commanding Officer or copy of active Marine Corps Reserve ID. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Naval Militia: Letter from Commanding Officer. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Navy Reserve: Letter from Commanding Officer or copy of active Navy Reserve ID. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Pearl Harbor Survivor: A Veteran who can provide DD-214 and official statement of verifying service at Pearl Harbor on 12/7/1941 or earlier. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no annual fee when you renew your registration.
Persian Gulf Veteran: Copy of DD214 verifying service dates in the Persian Gulf between 8/2/1990 and 4/6/1991. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Purple Heart Recipient: The Veteran must provide DD-214 or letter from Veterans Administration showing the awarding of the Purple Heart. An initial fee of $28.75 when you order a custom plate and no annual fee when you renew your registration. $16.25 when you order a custom motorcycle plate and no annual fee when you renew your registration.
Saratoga National Cemetery Honor Guard Association: Copy of membership card. $43.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and $15.00 Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
State Guard: Letter from Commanding Officer. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
US Naval Armed Guard: Copy of DD214 or a letter from the U.S. Naval Armed Guard authority verifying honorable discharge. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
US Submarine Veterans: Approval by organization. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee
US Veteran: Applicant must provide copy of DD-214 or proof of service. $38.75 Initial Custom Vehicle Plate Fee and no annual renewal fee. $26.25 Initial Custom Motorcycle Plate Fee and no annual renewal fee.
Veterans of Foreign Wars: Applicant must provide copy of membership card. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no annual renewal fee.
Vietnam Veteran: Applicant must provide copy of DD-214 or discharge papers verifying service dates between 12/22/1961 - 5/7/1975. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no annual renewal fee.
Vietnam Veterans of America: Applicant must provide copy of DD-214 and approval by organization. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no annual renewal fee.
War on Terror Veteran: Veteran must provide DD-214 or discharge papers stating Veteran served in the Persian Gulf or Afghanistan on or after 9/11/2001. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no annual fee when you renew your registration.
West Point: $60.00 Initial Custom Plate Fee and $31.25 Annual Renewal Fee.
World War II Veterans: copy of DD214 or discharge papers showing dates between 1941 and 1945. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
E-Z Pass: A Disabled Veteran who is qualified for and obtains a fee exempt vehicle registration from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles may enroll in the Authority's Disabled Veteran Non-Revenue E-ZPass program. Enrollment in the program allows free, unlimited travel for the disabled Veteran anywhere on the Thruway system when the disabled Veteran is traveling in a qualifying vehicle; (2-axle, 4-tire cars, vans or pickup trucks or motorcycles).
Registration Fee Exemptions for Military Veterans: Most military Veterans are not exempt from vehicle registration fees. You can qualify to be exempt from registration fees and vehicle plate fees if:
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you are a qualified disabled Veteran under Federal Title 38, or
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you qualify for and apply for Congressional Medal of Honor custom plates, or
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you are 62 years of age or older and you qualify for and apply for Former Prisoner of War custom plates.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Group Insurance: The Militia Association of New York Inc. offers Guard members, their spouses, and children $5,000 to $250,000 term insurance. No war or aviation exclusion.
Eligibility: Member of Army/Air National Guard.
Injury/Death Benefits: Guard members may claim a pension. Survivor's benefits available to dependents depending on nature and extent of disability. State supplemental burial allowance for those killed on federal active duty in combat or duty subject to hostile fire.
Eligibility: Injury/Death occurs while serving on State Active Duty; member of Army/Air National Guard.
General Information: For information on possible health care treatment and benefits information and applications, contact the New York State Division of Veterans' Affairs toll-free hotline at:
1-888-VETS NYS (1-888-838-7697)
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: Veterans with a 40% or greater disability rating
as documented annually by letter from the Veteran's Administration are eligible for $5.00 hunting and fishing licenses.
Sporting Licenses Under the Patriot Plan: Free hunting/big game, free fishing and free trapping licenses are available to NYS residents who have the appropriate Sportsmen Education and are active service members of the military.
Gold Star Parent Annuity: authorizes an annuity payment of up to $500 per Gold Star parent of a deceased Veteran.
Eligibility: an applicant must meet the following requirements:
- The applicant must be a Gold Star Parent (as defined in 10 USC 1126)
- The applicant must be a resident of New York State
- The applicant must verify that their income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. This verification is based upon the submittal of a copy of their latest calendar year Federal Tax return, or an affirmation that certifies that they are not required to file a federal income tax return.
Voter Registration: Veterans can register to vote in person at a county Board of Elections, or at any New York State Division of Veteran's Affairs benefits counseling office. If you have any questions, visit your state Veteran's counselor who will provide you a voter registration form.
Homes for Veterans Program: This program offers fixed-rate mortgages to enable more Veterans to buy their first home or move to a different home. Features of this program include:
-- Fixed interest rate that is 0.50% below the standard below-market State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) interest rate;
-- Closing cost assistance up to the greater of $3,000 or 3% of the requested loan amount;
-- No borrower points or origination fees; and
-- Requires only 1% of the home purchase price from borrower's own funds, the remaining 2% can come from a gift or other acceptable source.
Eligibility: Any Veteran who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Veterans will be required to submit DD Form 214, Certificate of Release, or Discharge from Active Duty. If the Veteran is not a first-time homebuyer, they will also be required to sign the Military Veteran's Eligibility Affidavit (SONYMA Form 243).
New York State Blind Annuity: New York State pays blind annuity at a 2012 rate of $1,277.40annually to eligible blind Veterans and eligible un-remarried spouses. The blind annuity is administered by the New York State Division of Veteran's Affairs. Statute provides for an annual cost of living adjustment.
Eligibility: Veterans who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during specified war-time periods and who were discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, and who meet the New York State standards of blindness who are now, and continue to be residents of and continuously domiciled in New York State. The continuous domicile requirement does not apply to annuitants whose claims were approved prior to June 1, 1958. The annuity also is payable to un-remarried spouses of deceased Veterans who were receiving annuity payments (or were eligible to) at the time of their death, and are residents of and continuously domiciled in New York State. Application.
State Veterans' Nursing Homes: The New York State Veterans' Homes are skilled nursing facilities owned and operated by the New York State Department of Health and SUNY for Veterans and their dependents. They exist to provide quality care to all eligible Veterans and dependents in need of skilled nursing care and rehabilitative services. There are five New York State Veterans Homes in the State. NYS Veterans Home at St. Albans a 250-bed facility, NYS Veterans Home at Batavia a 126 bed facility adjacent to the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, NYS Veterans Home at Oxford operates at 242- bed Veterans home, Long Island State Veterans Home and NYS Veterans Home at Montrose a 250-bed facility.
Eligibility:
- The applicant must require skilled nursing care and,
- have entered active duty from the State of New York or be a New York State resident for one year prior to application for admission, and
- Veteran must also have had an honorable discharge from the US Armed Forces, and
- Veteran must have had at least thirty (30) days of active service
- A spouse of an otherwise qualified Veteran, unless legally separated, may be admitted to the Home if the spouse was married to an eligible Veteran for 1 year prior to application and requires skilled nursing care.
- A Veteran accompanied by their spouse both of whom require skilled nursing care will receive the highest priority for admission followed by "wartime" Veterans; "non-wartime" Veterans, spouses and un-remarried surviving spouses, and then Gold Star mothers and fathers
Service Members' Group Life Insurance Premium Reimbursement Program: This program provides reimbursement for premiums that individual service members pay during qualifying periods of service. The recently published DMNA Regulation 1-2 has specific information on the program including eligibility and the process to receive reimbursement.
Eligibility: A service member must be an active member of the New York Army National Guard, New York Air National Guard, or the New York Naval Militia with an active status in the US Navy Reserve, US Coast Guard Reserve, or US Marine Corps Reserve. Service members in a Title 10 status, Title 32 status, for reasons other than training and/or State Active Duty (SAD) status may be eligible. Consult DMNA regulation 1-2 for further guidance. All eligible service members enrolled in SGLI and Service members must submit separate applications based on the type of duty performed. Applications must be submitted by November 1 of each year for duty performed in the previous federal fiscal year.
Recording of Discharges: County Clerks will provide free recording of the official discharge of each Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, as a confidential record.
Eligibility: Military Veteran with DD214.
Campus Parking Fees: Campuses of the State University of New York exempt wartime Veterans from any parking or motor vehicle registration vehicle fees otherwise imposed on students. The policy only allows Veterans to receive the exemption and does not allow them to extend it to Family members and this policy applies to students only.
Supplemental Burial Allowance: A Supplemental Burial Allowance of up to $6,000 is authorized for certain military personnel killed in combat or while on active duty in hostile/imminent danger locations on or after September 29, 2003.
The supplemental burial allowance provides a maximum of $6000 payment to defray funeral and burial expenses for members of the armed forces who were residents of NYS and who were receiving special pay for duty subject to hostile fire or imminent danger at the time of their death.
Eligibility: The burial allowance will be paid to the Family member responsible for funeral and burial expenses. Recipients eligible for reimbursement are, in order of priority:
- Surviving spouse or domestic partner of qualified decedent
- Adult children of qualified decedent
- Parents of qualified decedent
- Any other relative of qualified decedent
NYS Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans: Provides $450 per year to candidates up to five years depending on normal length of undergraduate program.
Eligibility: Children of Veterans who are deceased, 40% or more disabled, former POW, or MIA as a result of service during certain specified conflicts. Candidates must be a legal NY resident at the time of application and parent must have been a legal NY resident at the time of induction, death, or disability.
The Governor's Program to Hire Veterans with Disabilities: provides employment opportunities in State service for Veterans. Section 55-c of the NYS Civil Service Law permits qualified Veterans to apply for Civil Service positions without taking a civil service exam. Veterans with disabilities are not required to take a written or oral examination, but they must meet the educational and/or experience qualifications for the position.
Eligibility: Veterans of the US Armed Forces who served on active duty, other than for training, during: (Eligible service during earlier wars is also defined in the law)
- Vietnam - February 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975
- Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990 - Until hostilities end;
- Lebanon - June 1, 1983 - December 1, 1987
- Grenada - October 23, 1983 - November 21, 1983
- Panama - December 20, 1989 - January 31, 1990
- Recipients of certain Expeditionary Medals of the armed forces, Navy or Marine Corps are also eligible. Eligible service during earlier wars is also defined in the law. Learn more
- Veterans must have a disability; 20% Disability rating by the VA -OR- Disability certified by the Employee Health Service of the Dept. of Civil Service -OR- be a Purple Heart Medal recipient.
Purple Heart Recipient: The Veteran must provide DD-214 or letter from Veterans Administration showing the awarding of the Purple Heart. An initial fee of $28.75 when you order a custom plate and no annual fee when you renew your registration. $16.25 when you order a custom motorcycle plate and no annual fee when you renew your registration.
E-Z Pass: A Disabled Veteran who is qualified for and obtains a fee exempt vehicle registration from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles may enroll in the Authority's Disabled Veteran Non-Revenue E-ZPass program. Enrollment in the program allows free, unlimited travel for the disabled Veteran anywhere on the Thruway system when the disabled Veteran is traveling in a qualifying vehicle; (2-axle, 4-tire cars, vans or pickup trucks or motorcycles).
Registration Fee Exemptions for Military Veterans: Most military Veterans are not exempt from vehicle registration fees. You can qualify to be exempt from registration fees and vehicle plate fees if:
- you are a qualified disabled Veteran under Federal Title 38, or
- you qualify for and apply for Congressional Medal of Honor custom plates, or
- you are 62 years of age or older and you qualify for and apply for Former Prisoner of War custom plates.
Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Veterans with a 40% or greater disability rating as documented annually by letter from the Veteran's Administration are eligible for $5.00 hunting and fishing licenses.
Free "Access Pass" to State Parks: Veterans with disabilities may obtain free access passes from New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). Application
Eligibility: Veterans with a disability: Certification from the United States Veterans Administration or the New York State Division of Veterans Affairs that the applicant is a Veteran of the wars of the United States with a 40% or greater service connected disability as certified by the United States Veterans Administration, or who has at any time been awarded by the Federal government an allowance towards the purchase of an automobile or who is eligible for such an award.
New York State Blind Annuity: New York State pays blind annuity at a 2012 rate of $1,277.40annually to eligible blind Veterans and eligible un-remarried spouses. The blind annuity is administered by the New York State Division of Veteran's Affairs. Statute provides for an annual cost of living adjustment.
Eligibility: Veterans who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during specified war-time periods and who were discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, and who meet the New York State standards of blindness who are now, and continue to be residents of and continuously domiciled in New York State. The continuous domicile requirement does not apply to annuitants whose claims were approved prior to June 1, 1958. The annuity also is payable to un-remarried spouses of deceased Veterans who were receiving annuity payments (or were eligible to) at the time of their death, and are residents of and continuously domiciled in New York State. Application.
Property Tax Exemption: NYS Veterans' Property Tax Exemption provides a partial exemption on real property taxes to Veterans' of defined periods of war, Veterans who received expeditionary medals or certain Family members, as allowed by law.
There are three levels of benefits, depending on whether the Veteran served in combat and/or was disabled. Exemptions are also subject to dollar limitations, pursuant to state and local law.
- Section 458 of the Real Property Tax Law provides a partial exemption on property owned by a Veteran that has been purchased with pension, bonus, or insurance monies - referred to as "eligible funds."
- Section 458-a of the Real Property Tax Law is available only for residential property of Veterans who served during wartime or received an expeditionary medal - referred to as "alternative Veterans' exemption."
- Section 458-b of the Real Property Tax Law is available only for residential property of Veterans who served during the Cold War period - referred to as "Cold War exemption"
Who is eligible for the Property Tax Exemption?
To be eligible, an applicant must be one of the following:
- A qualified Veteran
- The spouse of a qualified Veteran (un-remarried surviving spouse)
Military Service Recognition Scholarship: Provides financial aid to children, spouses, and financial dependents of members of the armed forces of the United States or state organized militia who, at any time on or after Aug. 2, 1990, while New York State residents, died or became severely and permanently disabled while engaged in hostilities or training for hostilities.
Eligibility: Members of the armed forces or state organized militia, and their dependents who, while New York State residents in service in the Armed Forces of the United States or state organized militia, at any time on or after Aug 2, 1990,
- Died, or became severely and permanently disabled as a result of injury or illness suffered or incurred, or are classified as missing in action in a combat theater or zone of operations; or who died as a result of injuries incurred in these areas; OR
- Died, or became severely and permanently disabled as result of injury or illness suffered or incurred during military training operations in preparation for duty in a combat theater or combat zone of operations.
NYS Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans: Provides $450 per year to candidates up to five years depending on normal length of undergraduate program.
Eligibility: Children of Veterans who are deceased, 40% or more disabled, former POW, or MIA as a result of service during certain specified conflicts. Candidates must be a legal NY resident at the time of application and parent must have been a legal NY resident at the time of induction, death, or disability.
Gold Star Mother: Applicant must present official documentation stating child died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. $28.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Gold Star Parent Annuity: authorizes an annuity payment of up to $500 per Gold Star parent of a deceased Veteran.
Eligibility: an applicant must meet the following requirements:
- The applicant must be a Gold Star Parent (as defined in 10 USC 1126)
- The applicant must be a resident of New York State
- The applicant must verify that their income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. This verification is based upon the submittal of a copy of their latest calendar year Federal Tax return, or an affirmation that certifies that they are not required to file a federal income tax return.
New York State Blind Annuity: New York State pays blind annuity at a 2012 rate of $1,277.40annually to eligible blind Veterans and eligible un-remarried spouses. The blind annuity is administered by the New York State Division of Veteran's Affairs. Statute provides for an annual cost of living adjustment.
Eligibility: Veterans who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during specified war-time periods and who were discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, and who meet the New York State standards of blindness who are now, and continue to be residents of and continuously domiciled in New York State. The continuous domicile requirement does not apply to annuitants whose claims were approved prior to June 1, 1958. The annuity also is payable to un-remarried spouses of deceased Veterans who were receiving annuity payments (or were eligible to) at the time of their death, and are residents of and continuously domiciled in New York State. Application.
State Veterans' Nursing Homes: The New York State Veterans' Homes are skilled nursing facilities owned and operated by the New York State Department of Health and SUNY for Veterans and their dependents. They exist to provide quality care to all eligible Veterans and dependents in need of skilled nursing care and rehabilitative services. There are five New York State Veterans Homes in the State. NYS Veterans Home at St. Albans a 250-bed facility, NYS Veterans Home at Batavia a 126 bed facility adjacent to the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, NYS Veterans Home at Oxford operates at 242- bed Veterans home, Long Island State Veterans Home and NYS Veterans Home at Montrose a 250-bed facility.
Eligibility:
- The applicant must require skilled nursing care and,
- have entered active duty from the State of New York or be a New York State resident for one year prior to application for admission, and
- Veteran must also have had an honorable discharge from the US Armed Forces, and
- Veteran must have had at least thirty (30) days of active service
- A spouse of an otherwise qualified Veteran, unless legally separated, may be admitted to the Home if the spouse was married to an eligible Veteran for 1 year prior to application and requires skilled nursing care.
- A Veteran accompanied by their spouse both of whom require skilled nursing care will receive the highest priority for admission followed by "wartime" Veterans; "non-wartime" Veterans, spouses and un-remarried surviving spouses, and then Gold Star mothers and fathers
Supplemental Burial Allowance: A Supplemental Burial Allowance of up to $6,000 is authorized for certain military personnel killed in combat or while on active duty in hostile/imminent danger locations on or after September 29, 2003.
The supplemental burial allowance provides a maximum of $6000 payment to defray funeral and burial expenses for members of the armed forces who were residents of NYS and who were receiving special pay for duty subject to hostile fire or imminent danger at the time of their death.
Eligibility: The burial allowance will be paid to the Family member responsible for funeral and burial expenses. Recipients eligible for reimbursement are, in order of priority:
- Surviving spouse or domestic partner of qualified decedent
- Adult children of qualified decedent
- Parents of qualified decedent
- Any other relative of qualified decedent
New York Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program: The Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program pays 100% of the cost of tuition only for credit bearing courses at state institutions. Minimum enrollment for part-time is at least six, but less than twelve, credit hours per semester or at least four, but less than eight, semester hours per quarter at an institution. Members may receive no more than eight semesters of full-time study, four academic years, or ten semesters if the program requires five years to complete. Members may not receive more than sixteen semesters of part-time study. Funds are limited and applications should be submitted quickly.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member upon his or her enrollment in a degree-producing curriculum in any institution.
Employment Assistance: Section 242 of the New York State Military Law provides 30 calendar days or 22 workdays of military leave with full pay in any calendar year or continuous period of ordered duty that spans more than one calendar year. In addition, the State provides continuation of Family coverage under the State's health insurance plan, at no cost to the enrollee, for the period of federally ordered military duty or 12 months minus the period of time the employee is in full pay status. Under the provisions of the " Supplemental Military Leave" agreement, after leave at full pay benefits provided under Section 242 of the Military Law are exhausted, eligible employees will receive the difference between their regular state salary and their regular military pay for the time period covered by the agreement.
Eligibility: State employees who are called up for active duty in the Reserves or National Guard.
Re-employment: Application to former employer for restoration to pre-military position, other than temporary employment, should be made within 90 days of separation. Job reinstatement is for like seniority, status and pay. Reservists after initial training must seek reinstatement within 31 days. Compensation for State Active Duty: Pay and Allowances will be a minimum of $100.00 per day.
Eligibility: Army National Guard Service member on state active duty.
Army National Guard: Member must provide a letter from Commanding Officer. Distinctive National Guard license plates for $38.75 initial purchase with no charge thereafter.
Eligibility: Air National Guard member.
Group Insurance: The Militia Association of New York Inc. offers Guard members, their spouses, and children $5,000 to $250,000 term insurance. No war or aviation exclusion.
Eligibility: Member of Army/Air National Guard.
Injury/Death Benefits: Guard members may claim a pension. Survivor's benefits available to dependents depending on nature and extent of disability. State supplemental burial allowance for those killed on federal active duty in combat or duty subject to hostile fire.
Eligibility: Injury/Death occurs while serving on State Active Duty; member of Army/Air National Guard.
Sporting Licenses Under the Patriot Plan: Free hunting/big game, free fishing and free trapping licenses are available to NYS residents who have the appropriate Sportsmen Education and are active service members of the military.
Eligibility: NYS Residents who are active Service members of either the New York State Organized Militia, U.S. Reserve Forces, or certain members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Inactive service status does not qualify an individual for free DEC sporting licenses.
Free "Empire Passport" to State Parks: Pursuant to Executive Order 125 and in recognition of their commitment and sacrifices while in service, a member of the New York State Militia or any branch of the New York State National Guard or military reserves who is currently serving on active duty in support of the war on terrorism is eligible for one free Empire Passport for use by his or her immediate Family during deployment and/or for his or her own use when returning home. Application
Eligibility: National Guard, Reserves and state militia members.
Service Members' Group Life Insurance Premium Reimbursement Program: This program provides reimbursement for premiums that individual service members pay during qualifying periods of service. The recently published DMNA Regulation 1-2 has specific information on the program including eligibility and the process to receive reimbursement.
Eligibility: A service member must be an active member of the New York Army National Guard, New York Air National Guard, or the New York Naval Militia with an active status in the US Navy Reserve, US Coast Guard Reserve, or US Marine Corps Reserve. Service members in a Title 10 status, Title 32 status, for reasons other than training and/or State Active Duty (SAD) status may be eligible. Consult DMNA regulation 1-2 for further guidance. All eligible service members enrolled in SGLI and Service members must submit separate applications based on the type of duty performed. Applications must be submitted by November 1 of each year for duty performed in the previous federal fiscal year.
Employment Assistance: Section 242 of the New York State Military Law provides 30 calendar days or 22 workdays of military leave with full pay in any calendar year or continuous period of ordered duty that spans more than one calendar year. In addition, the State provides continuation of Family coverage under the State's health insurance plan, at no cost to the enrollee, for the period of federally ordered military duty or 12 months minus the period of time the employee is in full pay status. Under the provisions of the " Supplemental Military Leave" agreement, after leave at full pay benefits provided under Section 242 of the Military Law are exhausted, eligible employees will receive the difference between their regular state salary and their regular military pay for the time period covered by the agreement.
Eligibility: State employees who are called up for active duty in the Reserves or National Guard.
Army Reserve: Member must provide a letter from Commanding Officer or copy of active military ID. $38.75 Initial Custom Plate Fee and no Annual Plate Renewal Fee.
Eligibility: Army Reserve member
Sporting Licenses Under the Patriot Plan: Free hunting/big game, free fishing and free trapping licenses are available to NYS residents who have the appropriate Sportsmen Education and are active service members of the military.
Eligibility: NYS Residents who are active Service members of either the New York State Organized Militia, U.S. Reserve Forces, or certain members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Inactive service status does not qualify an individual for free DEC sporting licenses.
Free "Empire Passport" to State Parks: Pursuant to Executive Order 125 and in recognition of their commitment and sacrifices while in service, a member of the New York State Militia or any branch of the New York State National Guard or military reserves who is currently serving on active duty in support of the war on terrorism is eligible for one free Empire Passport for use by his or her immediate Family during deployment and/or for his or her own use when returning home. Application
Eligibility: National Guard, Reserves and state militia members.
Military Installations in New York Army
Fort Drum: http://www.drum.army.mil/Pages/index.aspx
Watervliet Arsenal: http://www.wva.army.mil/
West Point Military Academy: http://www.usma.edu/SitePages/Home.aspx
Fort Hamilton: http://www.hamilton.army.mil/
Navy
Naval Support Unit (NSU) Saratoga Springs, NY: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/saratoga/index.htm
National Guard:
New York National Guard Joint Headquarters: http://dmna.ny.gov/index.php
New York Army National Guard: http://ny.ng.mil/Pages/Default.aspx
New York Air National Guard: http://dmna.ny.gov/ang/nyang.php
Hancock Field Air National Guard Base: http://www.hancockfield.ang.af.mil/
United States Army Reserve (USAR):
Regional Support Command (RSC) Headquarters, 99th RSC: http://www.usar.army.mil/ourstory/commands/99RSC/Pages/default.aspx
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in New York:
VA Medical Centers
Albany: Albany VA Medical Center: Samuel S. Stratton
Batavia: VA Western New York Healthcare System at Batavia
Bath: Bath VA Medical Center
Bronx: James J. Peters VA Medical Center
Brooklyn: Brooklyn Campus of the VA NY Harbor Healthcare System
Buffalo: VA Western New York Healthcare System at Buffalo
Canandaigua: Canandaigua VA Medical Center
Castle Point: Castle Point Campus of the VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System
Montrose: Franklin Delano Roosevelt Campus of the VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System (Montrose)
New York: New York Campus of the VA NY Harbor Healthcare System
Northport: Northport VA Medical Center
Syracuse: Syracuse VA Medical Center
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Auburn: Auburn VA Outpatient Clinic
Bainbridge: Bainbridge VA Outpatient Clinic
Binghamton: Binghamton VA Outpatient Clinic
Bronx: Bronx Community Clinic
Brooklyn: Chapel Street Veterans Healthcare Center
Carmel: Carmel Community Clinic/Putnam County
Carthage: Carthage VA Outpatient Clinic
Catskill: Catskill VA Outpatient Clinic
Clifton Park: Clifton Park VA Outpatient Clinic
Cortland: Cortland VA Outpatient Clinic
Dunkirk: Dunkirk VA Outpatient Clinic
Elizabethtown: Elizabethtown VA Outpatient Clinic
Elmira: Elmira VA Outpatient Clinic
Fonda: Fonda VA Outpatient Clinic
Glens Falls: Glens Falls VA Outpatient Clinic
Goshen: Goshen Community Clinic
Ithaca: Ithaca VA Outpatient Clinic
Jamestown: Jamestown VA Outpatient Clinic
Kingston: Kingston VA Outpatient Clinic
Lackawanna: Lackawanna VA Outpatient Clinic
Lockport: Lockport VA Outpatient Clinic
Malone: Malone VA Outpatient Clinic
Massena: Massena VA Outpatient Clinic
Monticello: Monticello Community Clinic
New City: New City Community Clinic
New York: Harlem Community Clinic
New York: Opiate Replacement Treatment Program (ORTP), VA NY Harbor Healthcare System
Niagara Falls: Niagara Falls VA Outpatient Clinic
Olean: Olean VA Outpatient Clinic
Oswego: Oswego VA Outpatient Clinic
Patchogue: Patchogue Community Clinic
Pine Plains: Eastern Dutchess Community Clinic
Plainview: Plainview Community Clinic
Plattsburgh: Plattsburgh VA Outpatient Clinic
Port Jervis: Port Jervis Community Clinic
Poughkeepsie: Poughkeepsie Community Clinic
Rochester: Rochester VA Outpatient Clinic
Rome: Rome - Donald J. Mitchell VA Outpatient Clinic
Schenectady: Schenectady VA Outpatient Clinic
Staten Island: Staten Island Community Clinic
Sunnyside: Queens Community Clinic
Troy: Troy VA Outpatient Clinic
Warsaw: Warsaw Community Based Outpatient Clinic
Wellsville: Wellsville VA Outpatient Clinic
Westhampton: Westhampton Community Air Base
White Plains: White Plains Community Clinic
Yonkers: Yonkers Community Clinic
Domiciliary
Jamaica: St. Albans Community Living Center
Vet Center
Albany: Albany Vet Center
Babylon: Babylon Vet Center
Binghamton: Binghamton Vet Center
Bronx: Bronx Vet Center
Brooklyn: Brooklyn Veterans Resource Center
Buffalo: Buffalo Vet Center
Middletown: Middletown Vet Center
New York: Harlem Vet Center
New York: Manhattan Vet Center
Rochester: Rochester Vet Center
Staten Island: Staten Island Vet Center
Syracuse: Syracuse Vet Center|
Watertown: Watertown Vet Center
White Plains: White Plains Vet Center
Woodhaven: Queens Vet Center
Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN)
Albany: VISN 2: VA Healthcare Network Upstate New York
Bronx: VISN 3: VA NY/NJ Veterans Healthcare Network
Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office
Buffalo: Buffalo Regional Office
New York: New York Regional Office
http://www.cs.ny.gov/dpm/b55.cfm
http://www.cs.ny.gov/pio/summaryofcslaw/summofcsl-veterans-rights.cfm
http://labor.ny.gov/vets/employspec/veteransemployspec.shtm
http://www.hesc.com/content.nsf/SFC/Military_Corner
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?State=NY&dnum=ALL
http://www.nationalguard.mil/resources/states.aspx#ny
http://www.defense.gov/specials/outreachpublic/ny.html
http://www.dmv.ny.gov/military.htm
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-new-york-wyoming#NEWYORK
Document Review Date: 2 October 2012