State / Territory Benefits - Vermont
State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Compensation
Department of Motor Vehicles
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks & Recreation Benefits
Resource Locator
Miscellaneous Benefits
Wounded Warrior Benefits
Survivor Benefits
Army National Guard Benefits
US Army Reserve Benefits
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Resources
Summary: The State of Vermont offers special benefits for its military service members and Veterans including property tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
Vermont Exemptions for Military Pay: The following is a list of tax exemptions for military personnel in Vermont:
Residents - Military pay for full-time active duty with the armed services when the pay is earned outside of Vermont 32 VSA §5823(a) (2).
Non-Residents - Military pay for full-time active duty with the armed services 32 VSA §5823(a) (3). Military income is not included when computing the Vermont tax on other Vermont income for non-residents (as required by Public Law 180-189, Service-members Civil Relief Act effective tax year 2003.)
Guard/Reserve Pay: $2,000 of military pay for unit training in Vermont for National Guard and U.S. Reserve personnel when the unit certifies the training was completed during the calendar year and the Service member's Federal adjusted gross income is less than $50,000 - 32 VSA §5823(a)(2) & 32VSA §5823(a)(3)
Educational Loan exemptions: Funds received through the federal armed forces educational loan repayment program under 10 U.S.C. chapters 109 and 1609, to the extent the funds are included in adjusted gross income of the taxpayer for the taxable year - 32 VSA §5823(a)(3) & 32 VSA §5823(a)(3).
Earned Income Tax Credit: If you are eligible for Federal Earned Income Tax credit, you may also be eligible for the Vermont earned income tax credit. Recent Federal tax changes allow military personnel to elect to treat nontaxable combat pay as earned income. Combat Zone Duty: The Vermont income tax return filing due date is extended for at least 180 days after (1) the last day of qualifying combat zone service; or (2) the last day of any continuous qualified hospitalization for injury received from service in the combat zone. In addition to extending the filing due date, the payment of tax is also extended. No penalty or interest will be assessed on income tax due during this period. The extension applies to the filing for the military personnel's spouse.
Military Personnel Eligible for Extension Individuals called up for full-time active military duty as the result of the existence of a military conflict in an area designated as a combat zone by the President of the United States, regardless of whether such duty is performed within the combat zone32 VSA §5830d (1)
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. Property Tax Reduction: Before taxes are assessed, the appraised value of the home is reduced $10,000.00 (this figure may be increased to $40,000.00 by a vote of the town).
Eligibility: Veterans with 50% Service Connected Disability or higher, Veterans receiving Improved Pension, and surviving spouses receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. The widow or widower of a Veteran who was qualified for the exemption at the time of his or her death still qualifies for the exemption. NOTE: Civil union partners shall be treated the same as married for Vermont purposes. Only one exemption may be allowed on a property.
National Guard Educational Assistance Program: Provides up to a $5,000 scholarship to pay for tuition and fees for courses taken at any Vermont college, university, or regional technical center: Award is based on enrollment status and tuition rate for the Vermont state colleges for current year. 25% off tuition at some selected Vermont colleges.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard members.
National Guard Scholarship (tuition): Provides tuition scholarships at state college for surviving Family members of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Surviving dependents of Vermont National Guard members.
Tuition Assistance: Up to $2,500.00 per year for full-time for courses taken at a Vermont college, university or regional technical center. Tuition discounts at selected colleges.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Armed Services Scholarship Scholarships: Scholarships available at both state and private colleges within Vermont. Scholarships equal the tuition at state colleges and a reduction of tuition at private colleges.
Eligibility: Children and spouses of Active military members who died in service after 2001 and children and spouses of National Guard Soldiers who died after 1955.
High School Diplomas for WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War Era Veterans: Veterans who were unable to receive a Vermont high school diploma because of their military service may be eligible to receive one from a Vermont high school. The Office of Veterans Affairs verifies applications, and the diplomas are issued by a secondary school picked by the Veteran.
Eligibility: Veterans of the World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War Eras who do not have a high school diploma. Armed Services Scholarship: The Spouse and children of military members who died while on active duty since 2001, or the spouse and children of Vermont National Guard members who died while serving at any time, may pursue an undergraduate degree at a Vermont state college tuition free. They may also attend Vermont private colleges with a portion of their tuition reduced. Eligibility: Spouse or child of an active military member who died on active duty since 2001; spouse or child of a Vermont National Guard member who died on duty at any time. Applications for active duty deaths are processed by the Office of Veterans Affairs, which can be reached at (888) 666-9844. Applications for Vermont National Guard deaths are processed at the Vermont National Guard's Education Office at (802) 338-3346.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive either 15 days paid military leave (Army National Guard) or 11 days paid military leave (Air National Guard) per year for military training.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard member Service member.
Employment Preference: Veterans can apply for positions that are normally only available to State employees.
Eligibility: Any Veteran. Employment Assistance: Each State Department of Labor Career Resource Center has professionals who are trained to assist Veterans in finding work or job training. They are extremely knowledgeable about Veterans' benefits and can refer Veterans to the state and federal programs designed to meet their needs. Your local phonebook will have the number of the closest office. When you call, tell them you are a Veteran.
Unemployment Compensation: Vermont's Department of Labor administers the Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. The primary objective of Unemployment Insurance is to provide temporary income for those workers who become involuntarily unemployed, and who are able and willing to accept suitable jobs that are available. The costs of the program are borne entirely by the employer by payment of taxes to the Vermont Department of Labor, which are used solely for payment of benefits.
The following information will be required when you establish your unemployment claim for the first time. Having this information readily available when you call will help speed up the claims filing process.
- Social Security Number
- Mailing Address and Home Address
- Telephone Number (including area code)
- Alien Registration Number (if not a U.S. citizen)
- Amount and duration of any separation pay you may receive (vacation pay, severance pay, etc.)
- Return to work date (if you expect to be recalled to your job)
- Valid Driver's License Number (or state issued ID Number, if applicable)
- Banking information for Direct Deposit of your unemployment check
- Military Form DD-214, Member 4 Copy (if you were in the military in the past 18 months)
- Form SF-8 (if you worked for the Federal Government during the past 18 months and received one)
For each employer that you worked for in the past 18 months, have the following information available when you call:
- Complete name and address of each employer (including zip code) you worked for
- Payroll address (if different from employer address)
- Employer telephone number (including area code)
- Beginning and ending dates of employment
- Reason for separation
To file a claim, Call Toll-Free: 1-877-214-3330 or file a claim here.
Effective Monday, March 22 the Claims Center extended hours are:
Monday - Thursday 8:30am - 4:00pm
Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm
http://www.dol.gov/elaws/vets/realifelines/stateinfo.htm?state=VT
Vermont Veterans License Plates: Veterans can receive a Vermont Veteran's license plate when they register their vehicle. Veterans can have a Vermont Veteran's license plate on each of their cars. There are plates recognizing Veterans, Purple Heart recipients, former POWs, Pearl Harbor Survivors, and Veterans with in-country service during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Shield/Storm, and/or service in Afghanistan or Iraq. There is no fee for these special recognition plates.
Eligibility: A Veteran who is a Vermont resident must fill out a License Plate
Vermont National Guard Auto Tags: License plate for Guard members available at a special rate.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Group Insurance: $35,000.00 coverage provided by state for National Guard Service members on State Active Duty.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Workers Compensation: National Guard Service members on State Active Duty receive worker's compensation benefits.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Injury/Death Benefits: $50,000 Death Benefit to National Guard members while on State Active Duty. National Guard scholarship (tuition) at state college for children of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard members.
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
Hunting and Fishing Privileges Green Mountain Pass: Veterans can receive a free lifetime hunting and fishing license and a free Green Mountain Pass, which provides free access to state parks. For the hunting and fishing license, you will need to obtain a verification letter from the White River Junction Benefits Office (1-800-827-1000). Submit the verification letter with a standard license application and send it to the Fish and Wildlife Department in Waterbury. You can call them at (802) 241-3700 for more information. Applications for the Green Mountain Pass are found at your town clerk's office.
Eligibility: Veterans with a Department of Veterans Affairs Service Connected Disability rating of 100%.
Veteran Advocacy: Contact the Veteran Service Officer at the Office of Veterans Affairs for assistance in applying for federal Veteran benefits, such as Disability Compensation and Improved Pension. The Veteran Service Officer in Vermont is a trained and certified professional Veterans' advocate who works for Veterans for no fee. Please call toll free: (888) 666-9844.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents in the State of Vermont.
Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery: The Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located in Randolph Center. It provides Veterans with a resting-place that honors their service at a cost lower than a commercial cemetery. In addition, certain Family members may also be buried with the Veteran. Applicants can choose from government markers or custom-made commercial markers.
Eligibility: Vermont Veterans and their spouses, to include those who have served 20+ years in the National Guard or Reserves.
Vermont Medals: There are two medals: The Vermont Veteran's Medal (Bronze) and the Vermont Distinguished Service Medal (Silver). The Vermont Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to those who served in a combat theater. Veterans may choose to have the medals mailed to them or presented in a ceremony. In cases where the Veteran is deceased, a Family member may request the medals. Medals are usually mailed within 4 weeks of our office receiving an application; those who request a ceremony may have to wait up to a year before there will be a presentation.
Eligibility: Veterans who entered the military when they were a resident of Vermont, regardless of where they live now, and received an honorable discharge may be eligible for a state medal honoring their service.
Vermont Veterans Home: The Vermont Veterans' Home is located in Benington, Vermont. The home offers a complete range of specialized health care services. Goals focus on dignity, independence, and the highest quality of life for each resident. Veterans can contact the Vermont Veterans Home by calling them at (802) 442-6353. http://www.vvh.state.vt.us/
Eligibility: Veterans must have served at least 90 days of active duty in the U.S. military and been discharged under honorable conditions. Gold Star parents and spouses of a qualified Veteran are also eligible for admission. Veterans from other states are eligible on a space available basis.
Financial Assistance: The Office of Veterans Affairs provides emergency financial assistance to Veterans and their dependents by providing a one-time payment. Applications are processed over the phone or in person.
Eligibility: For Veterans and their dependents, applicants will need to provide detailed information on their income and expenses to apply. Call 1-888-666-9844 to apply.
Discharge Records: The Office of Veterans Affairs maintains copies of active duty discharge records for most Veterans who entered the service from Vermont. This office helps Veterans locate their records, will store copies of their records, and will make certified copies of records all free of charge. Because of the federal Privacy Act, Veterans must request for discharge in writing. The National Personnel Records Center now accepts Online Requests for records: http://www.archives.gov/research/order/
Eligibility: Discharge records only released to the Veteran or the Veteran's next of kin if the Veteran is deceased. If the requestor is the next of kin, please provide the Veteran's date of death and the relationship to the Veteran. Requests can be faxed or mailed.
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. Property Tax Reduction: Before taxes are assessed, the appraised value of the home is reduced $10,000.00 (this figure may be increased to $40,000.00 by a vote of the town).
Eligibility: Veterans with 50% Service Connected Disability or higher, Veterans receiving Improved Pension, and surviving spouses receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. The widow or widower of a Veteran who was qualified for the exemption at the time of his or her death still qualifies for the exemption. NOTE: Civil union partners shall be treated the same as married for Vermont purposes. Only one exemption may be allowed on a property.
Employment Preference: Veterans can apply for positions that are normally only available to State employees.
Eligibility: Any Veteran. Employment Assistance: Each State Department of Labor Career Resource Center has professionals who are trained to assist Veterans in finding work or job training. They are extremely knowledgeable about Veterans' benefits and can refer Veterans to the state and federal programs designed to meet their needs. Your local phonebook will have the number of the closest office. When you call, tell them you are a Veteran.
Vermont Veterans License Plates: Veterans can receive a Vermont Veteran's license plate when they register their vehicle. Veterans can have a Vermont Veteran's license plate on each of their cars. There are plates recognizing Veterans, Purple Heart recipients, former POWs, Pearl Harbor Survivors, and Veterans with in-country service during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Shield/Storm, and/or service in Afghanistan or Iraq. There is no fee for these special recognition plates.
Eligibility: A Veteran who is a Vermont resident must fill out a License Plate
Injury/Death Benefits: $50,000 Death Benefit to National Guard members while on State Active Duty. National Guard scholarship (tuition) at state college for children of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard members.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges Green Mountain Pass: Veterans can receive a free lifetime hunting and fishing license and a free Green Mountain Pass, which provides free access to state parks. For the hunting and fishing license, you will need to obtain a verification letter from the White River Junction Benefits Office (1-800-827-1000). Submit the verification letter with a standard license application and send it to the Fish and Wildlife Department in Waterbury. You can call them at (802) 241-3700 for more information. Applications for the Green Mountain Pass are found at your town clerk's office.
Eligibility: Veterans with a Department of Veterans Affairs Service Connected Disability rating of 100%.
Veteran Advocacy: Contact the Veteran Service Officer at the Office of Veterans Affairs for assistance in applying for federal Veteran benefits, such as Disability Compensation and Improved Pension. The Veteran Service Officer in Vermont is a trained and certified professional Veterans' advocate who works for Veterans for no fee. Please call toll free: (888) 666-9844.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents in the State of Vermont.
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. Property Tax Reduction: Before taxes are assessed, the appraised value of the home is reduced $10,000.00 (this figure may be increased to $40,000.00 by a vote of the town).
Eligibility: Veterans with 50% Service Connected Disability or higher, Veterans receiving Improved Pension, and surviving spouses receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. The widow or widower of a Veteran who was qualified for the exemption at the time of his or her death still qualifies for the exemption. NOTE: Civil union partners shall be treated the same as married for Vermont purposes. Only one exemption may be allowed on a property.
National Guard Scholarship (tuition): Provides tuition scholarships at state college for surviving Family members of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Surviving dependents of Vermont National Guard members.
Armed Services Scholarship Scholarships: Scholarships available at both state and private colleges within Vermont. Scholarships equal the tuition at state colleges and a reduction of tuition at private colleges.
Eligibility: Children and spouses of Active military members who died in service after 2001 and children and spouses of National Guard Soldiers who died after 1955.
Injury/Death Benefits: $50,000 Death Benefit to National Guard members while on State Active Duty. National Guard scholarship (tuition) at state college for children of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard members.
Vermont Medals: Vermont has a medal that recognizes those who served and who had a connection with our state. The Patriots Medal is presented to the next-of-kin of Vermont soldiers killed in action.
Eligibility: Next-of-kin of Soldiers who entered the military when they were a resident of Vermont and were killed in action.
Vermont Veterans Home: The Vermont Veterans' Home is located in Benington, Vermont. The home offers a complete range of specialized health care services. Goals focus on dignity, independence, and the highest quality of life for each resident. Gold Star parents and spouses can contact the Vermont Veterans Home by calling them at (802) 442-6353. http://www.vvh.state.vt.us/
Eligibility: Veterans must have served at least 90 days of active duty in the U.S. military and been discharged under honorable conditions. Gold Star parents and spouses of a qualified Veteran are also eligible for admission.
Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery: The Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located in Randolph Center. It provides Veterans with a resting-place that honors their service at a cost lower than a commercial cemetery. In addition, certain Family members may also be buried with the Veteran. Applicants can choose from government markers or custom-made commercial markers.
Eligibility: Vermont Veterans and their spouses, to include those who have served 20+ years in the National Guard or Reserves.
Vermont National Guard Benefits
Guard/Reserve Pay: $2,000 of military pay for unit training in Vermont for National Guard and U.S. Reserve personnel when the unit certifies the training was completed during the calendar year and the Service member's Federal adjusted gross income is less than $50,000 - 32 VSA §5823(a)(2) & 32VSA §5823(a)(3)
National Guard Educational Assistance Program: Provides up to a $5,000 scholarship to pay for tuition and fees for courses taken at any Vermont college, university, or regional technical center: Award is based on enrollment status and tuition rate for the Vermont state colleges for current year. 25% off tuition at some selected Vermont colleges.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard members.
National Guard Scholarship (tuition): Provides tuition scholarships at state college for surviving Family members of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Surviving dependents of Vermont National Guard members.
Armed Services Scholarship Scholarships: Scholarships available at both state and private colleges within Vermont. Scholarships equal the tuition at state colleges and a reduction of tuition at private colleges.
Eligibility: Children and spouses of National Guard Soldiers who died after 1955.
Tuition Assistance: Up to $2,500.00 per year for full-time for courses taken at a Vermont college, university or regional technical center. Tuition discounts at selected colleges.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive either 15 days paid military leave (Army National Guard) or 11 days paid military leave (Air National Guard) per year for military training.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard member Service member.
Vermont National Guard Auto Tags: License plate for Guard members available at a special rate.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Group Insurance: $35,000.00 coverage provided by state for National Guard Service members on State Active Duty.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Workers Compensation: National Guard Service members on State Active Duty receive worker's compensation benefits.
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard Service member.
Injury/Death Benefits: $50,000 Death Benefit to National Guard members while on State Active Duty. National Guard scholarship (tuition) at state college for children of Guard members killed on duty (except when on Federal Active Duty).
Eligibility: Vermont National Guard members.
Veteran Advocacy: Contact the Veteran Service Officer at the Office of Veterans Affairs for assistance in applying for federal Veteran benefits, such as Disability Compensation and Improved Pension. The Veteran Service Officer in Vermont is a trained and certified professional Veterans' advocate who works for Veterans for no fee. Please call toll free: (888) 666-9844.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents in the State of Vermont.
Financial Assistance: The Office of Veterans Affairs provides emergency financial assistance to Veterans and their dependents by providing a one-time payment. Applications are processed over the phone or in person.
Eligibility: For Veterans and their dependents, applicants will need to provide detailed information on their income and expenses to apply. Call 1-888-666-9844 to apply.
Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery: The Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located in Randolph Center. It provides Veterans with a resting-place that honors their service at a cost lower than a commercial cemetery. In addition, certain Family members may also be buried with the Veteran. Applicants can choose from government markers or custom-made commercial markers.
Eligibility: Vermont Veterans and their spouses, to include those who have served 20+ years in the National Guard.
Guard/Reserve Pay: $2,000 of military pay for unit training in Vermont for National Guard and U.S. Reserve personnel when the unit certifies the training was completed during the calendar year and the Service member's Federal adjusted gross income is less than $50,000 - 32 VSA §5823(a)(2) & 32VSA §5823(a)(3)
Veteran Advocacy: Contact the Veteran Service Officer at the Office of Veterans Affairs for assistance in applying for federal Veteran benefits, such as Disability Compensation and Improved Pension. The Veteran Service Officer in Vermont is a trained and certified professional Veterans' advocate who works for Veterans for no fee. Please call toll free: (888) 666-9844.
Eligibility: All Veterans and their dependents in the State of Vermont.
Financial Assistance: The Office of Veterans Affairs provides emergency financial assistance to Veterans and their dependents by providing a one-time payment. Applications are processed over the phone or in person.
Eligibility: For Veterans and their dependents, applicants will need to provide detailed information on their income and expenses to apply. Call 1-888-666-9844 to apply.
Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery: The Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located in Randolph Center. It provides Veterans with a resting-place that honors their service at a cost lower than a commercial cemetery. In addition, certain Family members may also be buried with the Veteran. Applicants can choose from government markers or custom-made commercial markers.
Eligibility: Vermont Veterans and their spouses, to include those who have served 20+ years in the Reserves.
Military Installations in Vermont
Active Duty: No Active Duty Military Installations in Vermont
National Guard: Vermont National Guard: http://www.vtguard.com/
Vermont Army National Guard: http://www.vtguard.com/ArmyGuard/
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 Vermont
VA Medical Center
White River Junction: White River Junction VA Medical Center, 215 North Main St, 802-295-9363 / 866-687-8387
Community Based Outpatient Clinic
Bennington: Bennington Outpatient Clinic, 186 North St, 802-447-6913 / Fax: 802-442-2137
Brattleboro: Brattleboro Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 71 GSP Dr, 802-251-2200 /
Fax: 802-251-2277
Colchester: Colchester Outpatient Clinic at Fort Ethan Allen, 162 Hegeman Ave, Unit 100
802-655-1356 / Fax: 802-655-1231
Newport: Newport Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 1734 Crawford Farm Rd, 802-334-9700 / Fax: 802-334-9777
Rutland: Rutland Community Based Outpatient Clinic, 232 West St, 802-772-2300 / Fax: 802-772-2377
Vet Center
South Burlington: South Burlington Vet Center, 359 Dorset St, 802-862-1806 / 877-927-8387
Fax: 802-865-3319
White River Junction: White River Junction Vet Center, 222 Holiday Dr, GIlman Office, Bldg 2, 802-295-2908 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 802-296-3653
Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office
White River Junction Regional Office, 215 North Main Street, 800-827-1000
http://veterans.vermont.gov/home
http://www.nationalguard.com/benefits/additional-guard-benefits/state-benefits
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?state=vt&dnum=all
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-new-york-wyoming
http://www.state.vt.us/tax/individualmilitary.shtml
http://www.nationalguard.com/benefits
http://www.state.vt.us/tax/pdf.word.excel/individual/MILITARY%20PERSONNEL.pdf
http://dmv.vermont.gov/registrations/drivers/plates/special
Document Review Date: 20 July 2012