State / Territory Benefits - Virginia
State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Department of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
Resource Locator
Wounded Warrior Benefits
Survivor Benefits
Army National Guard Benefits
US Army Reserve Benefits
Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Facilities
Resources
Summary: The Commonwealth of Virginia offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including state tax advantages, 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: Deduction of up to $15,000 of basic pay (does not apply if basic pay income is over $30,000).
Eligibility: Must be a member of the military stationed inside or outside Virginia. For every $1.00 of income over $15,000, the maximum subtraction is reduced by $1.00. For example, if basic pay is $16,000, the Soldier is entitled to deduct only $14,000.
Exemption for Virginia National Guard Income: Up to $3,000 of National Guard income.
Eligibility: Must be a member of Virginia National Guard, up to the rank of Captain (03).
Tax Relief for Spouses of Military Personnel: Effective for taxable year 2009 and later, spouses of military Service members do not automatically become Virginia residents for purposes of income and personal property taxation in cases where the individual is present in Virginia solely to be with a spouse who is a member of the military serving in Virginia in compliance with military orders. This means that affected individuals may be eligible for refunds of income tax withheld by their employers from 2009 and later.
Retired Military Pay: Follows federal tax rules. Military retirement income received by those awarded the Medal of Honor can be subtracted from federal gross income for tax purposes. The subtraction does not apply to benefits received by a surviving spouse.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on "combat-related injury" 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.
Combat Zone Filing and Payment Extensions: Members of the Armed Forces serving in a combat zone will receive either the same individual income tax filing and payment extensions as those granted to them by the IRS, plus an additional fifteen days, OR a one-year extension, whichever date is later. The term "combat zone" includes hazardous duty areas and contingency zones that qualify for similar federal extensions and tax benefits.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
VA Disability Compensation (Service Connection): Disability compensation varies with the degree of disability and the number of dependants, and is paid monthly. The benefits are not subject to federal or state taxes. The payment of retirement pay, disability severance pay, and separation incentive payments known as SSB and VSI (Special Separation Benefits and Voluntary Separation Incentives) also affects the amount of VA compensation paid.
Eligibility: Disability compensation is a monetary benefit paid to Veterans who are disabled by injury or disease incurred or aggravated during active military service. The service of the Veteran must have been terminated through separation or discharge under conditions that were other than dishonorable.
Virginia Homestead Tax Relief: Eligible Veterans can qualify for an exemption for the real estate taxes on his or her principal residence. The Virginia General Assembly recently approved an exemption from local real estate taxes including the joint real property of a husband and wife, of any Veteran who has been rated by the Department of Veteran Affairs to have a 100% service-connected, permanent, total disability, and who occupies the property as his or her principal residence. The exemption is retroactive to 1 January 2011. Additionally, the exemption extends to the surviving spouse, if the permanently and totally disabled Veteran's death occurred on or after 1 January 2011. The Veteran's surviving spouse can continue to claim the exemption so long as he or she does not remarry and continues to occupy the home as his or her principal residence. To obtain an application or find out more contact your local county clerk office, the benefit must be applied for through the local county office of where the property is located. Documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the Veteran is 100% permanently and totally disabled must be submitted in order to qualify.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a Virginia Resident with a Department of Veterans Affairs rating of 100% Service-Connected Permanently and Totally Disabled. Surviving spouses can continue to claim the exemption so long as he or she does not remarry and continues to occupy the home as his or her principal residence and the Veteran's death occurred on or after 1 January 2011.
VA NG State Tuition Assistance Program (VNGSTAP): Funds 100% of tuition costs remaining after all Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) benefits are applied, at any Virginia state supported school. Maximum VNGSTAP benefit is $6,000 per year, or $2,000 maximum per semester (fall, spring, and summer). VA Guard members are also offered in-state tuition rates as long as they are receiving State Tuition Assistance. Total tuition assistance for private institutions may not exceed the above rates. Subject to availability of funds, VNGSTAP recipients receive up to $350 per semester for textbooks. The VNGSTAP can be combined with the GI Bill.
Eligibility: Virginia Army National Guard member.
Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program: The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (MSDEP) provides educational assistance for the spouses and children of military Service members who, while serving as an active duty member in the United States Armed Forces, United States Armed Forces Reserves, the Virginia National Guard, or Virginia National Guard Reserve, during military operations against terrorism, on a peace-keeping mission, as a result of a terrorist act, or in any armed conflict subsequent to December 6, 1941, was killed or is missing in action or is a prisoner of war, or a Veteran who is or may hereafter become at least 90% disabled, as rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and has been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, due to such service. The applicant must use this entitlement to attend either a Virginia state supported college, university or post-secondary educational institution. Eligible individuals are entitled to a maximum of forty-eight (48) months of tuition-free education and required fees at any Virginia state supported college, university, or post-secondary educational institution.
Eligibility: In order to be eligible for this benefit, the surviving child or spouse must meet the following requirements:
•· The child must be between ages 16 and 29; there are no age restrictions for spouses.
•· The military Service member is and must have been a Virginia citizen at the time he or she entered active duty or must have been a Virginia citizen for at least five years immediately prior to the date of the application for admission.
•· In the case of a deceased military Service member the Veteran's surviving spouse can meet the residency requirements if he or she lived in Virginia for at least five years prior to marrying the military Service member or has been a citizen of Virginia for at least five years immediately prior to the date of application.
•Ø Required Documentation: In most cases, eligibility will be determined using documentation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. However, the Veteran or surviving spouse may be asked to provide documentation verifying residency or the applicant's age or relationship. State income tax records, birth certificates, and/or marriage certificates are usually sufficient.
•Ø Recertification: To continue receiving MSDEP benefits, qualifying enrolled students must provide a letter to the Virginia Department of Veterans Services stating their continued enrollment, the period attended, and the period of time for which they are requesting benefits.
Honorary Diplomas for World War II/Korean War/Vietnam War Veterans: Veteran Honorary High School Diplomas recognize the life experiences of Veterans who were unable to complete their high school education because of service in the armed forces during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Since the first honorary diplomas were issued in 2001, more than 1,000 have been awarded to Veterans of these three wars.
Eligibility: Veteran may submit a statement to the Veterans Education Unit of the Virginia Department of Education describing his or her service, the location of the last school attended, and affirming that he or she was unable to complete high school upon return to civilian life. The guideline also allows Family members and Veterans' organizations to submit this information on behalf of the Veteran.
Veterans Honorary High School Diploma Program
Virginia Department of Education
P.O. Box 2120
Richmond, Virginia 23218-2120
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 15 work days of paid military leave annually.
Eligibility: Army National Guard and US Army Reserve Soldiers
Virginia Employment Commission (VEC): VEC provides job referral and placement resources available to assist Veterans in finding jobs. Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) staff are available in most VEC offices to assist Veterans with employment services. Priority of service means, with respect to any qualified Department of Labor employment and job-training programs, that Veterans 1 and Eligible Spouses 2 shall be given priority over non-Veterans for the receipt of employment, training, and placement services.
Department of Human Resource Management - Veteran Outreach Services: The Department of Human Resource Management places great importance on providing Veterans access to information about employment services and assistance.
Department of Motor Vehicles Benefits:
The state of Virginia offers a large selection of specialized vehicle license plates for Veterans, Disabled Veterans, and Military Service members. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and following link provides a complete list of special military plates:
Some of the special plates available include:
Purple Heart Plates: Effective July 1, 2011, one free Purple Heart Plate (including vehicle registration fee) per eligible Service member. Personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually and is available with a disabled symbol.
Eligibility: Veteran must provide copy of certificate of award (or) copy of official records or letter showing medal was awarded (or) copy of DD214.
Disabled Veteran Plate: One free Plate (including vehicle registration fee) for Disabled Veteran plate. Un-remarried surviving spouses are eligible to receive license plates.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of Veterans Certificate of Disability Form VSA 54 signed by a Veteran Service Officer.
Veteran Armed Forces Plate: Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually. Personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually and is available with a disabled symbol.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of DD214 showing honorable discharge.
Army Reserve Plate: Army Reserve Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually and the personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Certification from the Army Reserve Commanding General's Office.
National Guard Plate: No plate fee and National Guard members receive half off County sticker with purchase of National Guard tags. Auto tags can be purchased at 1/2 price.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of certification 'AG of VA Form 66.'
National Guard Retired Plate: There is no fee for the National Guard Retired Plate and the personalized plate fee is $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of certification 'AG OF VA Form 66'
Iraqi Freedom Veteran Plate: Iraqi Freedom Veteran Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually and the personalized plate fee is and additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Provide orders or copy of DD214, dates no earlier than 03/2003 (honorable discharge only)
Enduring Freedom Veteran Plate: Enduring Freedom Veteran Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually and the personalized plate fee is and additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Provide orders or copy of DD214, dates no earlier than 09/11/2001 (honorable discharge only) displaying Operation Enduring Freedom
Vietnam Veteran Plate: Vietnam Veteran Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually and the personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Provide orders or copy of DD214, showing Veteran fought in the Vietnam conflict
Korean War Veteran Plate: Korean War Veteran Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually and the personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of discharge papers showing participation in operations in the Korean area between June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954.
Pearl Harbor Survivor Plate: Pearl Harbor Survivor Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is a one-time fee of $10.00 and the personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of official document indicating person on island on Oahu on 12/7/1941.
World War II Veteran: World War II Veteran Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is a one-time fee of $10.00 and the personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually.
Former Prisoner of War Plate: There is no fee for one Former Prisoner of War Plate and the personalized plate fee is $10.00 annually. Un-remarried surviving spouses are eligible to receive license plates.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of official records showing (or) copy of DD214 that verifies status or previous status as a former POW.
Gold Star Plate: There is no fee for the Gold Star Plate and the personalized plate fee is $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of the DMV Gold Star License Plate Applicant Certification Form (VSA 10A).
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Medical Benefits: Full medical benefits through worker's compensation.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Workers Compensation: Full worker's compensation.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Injury and Death Benefits: Full worker's compensation at maximum level benefits.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers a free lifetime hunting and fresh water fishing license to service connected totally and permanently Disabled Veterans
Eligibility: Veteran must provide certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the disability is permanent and total and that it is 100% service connected.
Resident Disabled Saltwater Fishing - Issued separately on individual license. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers a discounted Salt water fishing license to service connected totally and permanently Disabled Veterans for only $10.00
Eligibility: Veteran must provide certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the disability is permanent and total and that it is 100% service connected.
Partially Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing Licenses: The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers discounted hunting licenses and fresh water fishing licenses to partially service connected Disabled Veterans. A fee of $12.00 per license for Residents and $24.00 per license for non-Residents.
Eligibility: Veteran must provide certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the Veteran has a service-connected disability with a numeric rating of 70% or greater.
Virginia Veterans ID Card: On behalf of the Department of Veteran Services (DVS), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) now issues identification cards to Veterans for proof of Veteran status to receive discounts from retailers and restaurants. The cost of the Veterans ID card is $10.00
Eligibility: To qualify for this new Veterans identification card (VIC), applicants must
•· Hold an unexpired Virginia commercial driver's license, driver's license, learner's permit or DMV-issued ID card.
•· Present a copy of one of the following documents as proof of U. S. Armed Forces Veteran status showing a discharge status other than dishonorable:
•o Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty (DD 214) - If your DD214 does not display the discharge status, DMV will request that you present another document (i.e. DD 256 or WD AGO document displaying the discharge status)
•o Honorable Discharge Certificate (DD 256)
•o Enlisted Record and Report of Separation (WD AGO)
The document submitted with your application must display your branch of service, date of discharge and discharge status. Individuals with a dishonorable discharge status are not eligible for a Veteran ID card.
Submission of Applications
Customers may apply for a VIC:
•· Online (customers who submit online applications will need to submit a copy of their Veteran status proof document by mail or fax to DMV headquarters, or in person at a DMV customer service center)
•· By mail:
Driver Support Work Center
Department of Motor Vehicles
P. O. Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269-0001
•· By fax:
(804) 367-1112
•· In person at a DMV Customer Service Center
•· Customers who submit their application by mail, fax, or in person must submit a completed Virginia Veterans Identification Card (DL11) form along with a copy of one of the Veteran status proof documents listed above. The application is available online or at any DMV customer service center.
When applying for a Veterans ID card, please make sure that DMV has your current address on your record.
Non-service Connected Pension: Payments are made to qualified Veterans to bring their total income, including retirement and Social Security income, to a level set by Congress. Unreimbursed medical expenses may reduce countable income. Veterans of a period of war who are age 65 or older and meet service and income requirements are also eligible to receive a pension, regardless of current physical condition.
Eligibility: Veterans with low incomes who are permanently and totally disabled may be eligible for monetary support if they have 90 days or more of active military service, at least one day of which was during a period of war. The discharge from active duty must have been under conditions other than dishonorable. The permanent and total disabilities must be for reasons other than the Veteran's own willful misconduct.
Virginia Veterans Care Center: The VVCC is a state home for Veterans in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The mission of the VVCC is to provide affordable, high quality, comprehensive nursing and domiciliary care to Commonwealth of Virginia for honorably discharged Veterans of the United States Armed Forces. The 240 bed facility is located in Roanoke, VA.
Eligibility: Honorably discharged Veterans who are Virginia residents at the time of admission or when they entered into the Armed Forces
The Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center: is located on the campus of the McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia and is operated by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. This single-level facility features 160 single-occupancy rooms in three nursing units: two 60-bed skilled nursing care units and one 40-bed secure Alzheimer's dementia unit with enclosed courtyards.
Eligibility: The applicant must be a former active duty member of the United States armed forces whose last term of service concluded with an honorable discharge. The applicant must be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries: The state of Virginia will furnish a gravesite, open and close the grave, order and place the grave marker, and provide perpetual care for the Veteran and their spouse/ eligible dependent. There is no cost to the veteran for these services. For the spouse/ eligible dependent, the cost is $300. Burial in a state Veteran's cemetery (Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, Albert G. Horton Jr, Memorial Veterans Cemetery and Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery) is based on military service.
Eligibility: The eligibility criterion is the same criteria for burial in VA national cemeteries. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces who die on active duty, who retire from military service, or who are honorably discharged are eligible for burial in one of Virginia's Veterans cemeteries. The legal spouse (or widow or widower) and/or an unmarried minor child under age 21 meets eligibility requirements.
State Tax Advantage: Deduction of up to $15,000 of basic pay (does not apply if basic pay income is over $30,000).
Eligibility: Must be a member of the military stationed inside or outside Virginia. For every $1.00 of income over $15,000, the maximum subtraction is reduced by $1.00. For example, if basic pay is $16,000, the Soldier is entitled to deduct only $14,000.
Tax Relief for Spouses of Military Personnel: Effective for taxable year 2009 and later, spouses of military Service members do not automatically become Virginia residents for purposes of income and personal property taxation in cases where the individual is present in Virginia solely to be with a spouse who is a member of the military serving in Virginia in compliance with military orders. This means that affected individuals may be eligible for refunds of income tax withheld by their employers from 2009 and later.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on "combat-related injury" 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.
VA Disability Compensation (Service Connection): Disability compensation varies with the degree of disability and the number of dependants, and is paid monthly. The benefits are not subject to federal or state taxes. The payment of retirement pay, disability severance pay, and separation incentive payments known as SSB and VSI (Special Separation Benefits and Voluntary Separation Incentives) also affects the amount of VA compensation paid.
Eligibility: Disability compensation is a monetary benefit paid to Veterans who are disabled by injury or disease incurred or aggravated during active military service. The service of the Veteran must have been terminated through separation or discharge under conditions that were other than dishonorable.
Virginia Employment Commission (VEC): VEC provides job referral and placement resources available to assist Veterans in finding jobs. Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) staff are available in most VEC offices to assist Veterans with employment services. Priority of service means, with respect to any qualified Department of Labor employment and job-training programs, that Veterans 1 and Eligible Spouses 2 shall be given priority over non-Veterans for the receipt of employment, training, and placement services.
Department of Human Resource Management - Veteran Outreach Services: The Department of Human Resource Management places great importance on providing Veterans access to information about employment services and assistance.
Purple Heart Plates: Effective July 1, 2011, one free Purple Heart Plate (including vehicle registration fee) per eligible Service member. Personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually and is available with a disabled symbol.
Eligibility: Veteran must provide copy of certificate of award (or) copy of official records or letter showing medal was awarded (or) copy of DD214.
Disabled Veteran Plate: One free Plate (including vehicle registration fee) for Disabled Veteran plate. Un-remarried surviving spouses are eligible to receive license plates.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of Veterans Certificate of Disability Form VSA 54 signed by a Veteran Service Officer.
Veteran Armed Forces Plate: Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually. Personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually and is available with a disabled symbol.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of DD214 showing honorable discharge.
Hunting and Fishing Privileges: The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers a free lifetime hunting and fresh water fishing license to service connected totally and permanently Disabled Veterans
Eligibility: Veteran must provide certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the disability is permanent and total and that it is 100% service connected.
Resident Disabled Saltwater Fishing - Issued separately on individual license. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers a discounted Salt water fishing license to service connected totally and permanently Disabled Veterans for only $10.00
Eligibility: Veteran must provide certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the disability is permanent and total and that it is 100% service connected.
Partially Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing Licenses: The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers discounted hunting licenses and fresh water fishing licenses to partially service connected Disabled Veterans. A fee of $12.00 per license for Residents and $24.00 per license for non-Residents.
Eligibility: Veteran must provide certification from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the Veteran has a service-connected disability with a numeric rating of 70% or greater.
Virginia Veterans Care Center: The VVCC is a state home for Veterans in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The mission of the VVCC is to provide affordable, high quality, comprehensive nursing and domiciliary care to Commonwealth of Virginia for honorably discharged Veterans of the United States Armed Forces. The 240 bed facility is located in Roanoke, VA.
Eligibility: Honorably discharged Veterans who are Virginia residents at the time of admission or when they entered into the Armed Forces.
The Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center: is located on the campus of the McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia and is operated by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. This single-level facility features 160 single-occupancy rooms in three nursing units: two 60-bed skilled nursing care units and one 40-bed secure Alzheimer's dementia unit with enclosed courtyards.
Eligibility: The applicant must be a former active duty member of the United States armed forces whose last term of service concluded with an honorable discharge. The applicant must be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Survivor Benefits
Virginia Homestead Tax Relief: Eligible Veterans can qualify for an exemption for the real estate taxes on his or her principal residence. The Virginia General Assembly recently approved an exemption from local real estate taxes including the joint real property of a husband and wife, of any Veteran who has been rated by the Department of Veteran Affairs to have a 100% service-connected, permanent, total disability, and who occupies the property as his or her principal residence. The exemption is retroactive to 1 January 2011. Additionally, the exemption extends to the surviving spouse, if the permanently and totally disabled Veteran's death occurred on or after 1 January 2011. The Veteran's surviving spouse can continue to claim the exemption so long as he or she does not remarry and continues to occupy the home as his or her principal residence. To obtain an application or find out more contact your local county clerk office, the benefit must be applied for through the local county office of where the property is located. Documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating that the Veteran is 100% permanently and totally disabled must be submitted in order to qualify.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a Virginia Resident with a Department of Veterans Affairs rating of 100% Service-Connected Permanently and Totally Disabled. Surviving spouses can continue to claim the exemption so long as he or she does not remarry and continues to occupy the home as his or her principal residence and the Veteran's death occurred on or after 1 January 2011.
Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program: The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (MSDEP) provides educational assistance for the spouses and children of military Service members who, while serving as an active duty member in the United States Armed Forces, United States Armed Forces Reserves, the Virginia National Guard, or Virginia National Guard Reserve, during military operations against terrorism, on a peace-keeping mission, as a result of a terrorist act, or in any armed conflict subsequent to December 6, 1941, was killed or is missing in action or is a prisoner of war, or a Veteran who is or may hereafter become at least 90% disabled, as rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and has been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, due to such service. The applicant must use this entitlement to attend either a Virginia state supported college, university or post-secondary educational institution. Eligible individuals are entitled to a maximum of forty-eight (48) months of tuition-free education and required fees at any Virginia state supported college, university, or post-secondary educational institution.
Eligibility: In order to be eligible for this benefit, the surviving child or spouse must meet the following requirements:
•· The child must be between ages 16 and 29; there are no age restrictions for spouses.
•· The military Service member is and must have been a Virginia citizen at the time he or she entered active duty or must have been a Virginia citizen for at least five years immediately prior to the date of the application for admission.
•· In the case of a deceased military Service member the Veteran's surviving spouse can meet the residency requirements if he or she lived in Virginia for at least five years prior to marrying the military Service member or has been a citizen of Virginia for at least five years immediately prior to the date of application.
Required Documentation: In most cases, eligibility will be determined using documentation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. However, the Veteran or surviving spouse may be asked to provide documentation verifying residency or the applicant's age or relationship. State income tax records, birth certificates, and/or marriage certificates are usually sufficient.
Recertification: To continue receiving MSDEP benefits, qualifying enrolled students must provide a letter to the Virginia Department of Veterans Services stating their continued enrollment, the period attended, and the period of time for which they are requesting benefits.
Virginia Employment Commission (VEC): VEC provides job referral and placement resources available to assist Veterans in finding jobs. Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) staff are available in most VEC offices to assist Veterans with employment services. Priority of service means, with respect to any qualified Department of Labor employment and job-training programs, that Veterans 1 and Eligible Spouses 2 shall be given priority over non-Veterans for the receipt of employment, training, and placement services.
Disabled Veteran Plate: One free Plate (including vehicle registration fee) for Disabled Veteran plate. Un-remarried surviving spouses are eligible to receive license plates.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of Veterans Certificate of Disability Form VSA 54 signed by a Veteran Service Officer.
Former Prisoner of War Plate: There is no fee for one Former Prisoner of War Plate and the personalized plate fee is $10.00 annually. Un-remarried surviving spouses are eligible to receive license plates.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of official records showing (or) copy of DD214 that verifies status or previous status as a former POW.
Gold Star Plate: There is no fee for the Gold Star Plate and the personalized plate fee is $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of the DMV Gold Star License Plate Applicant Certification Form (VSA 10A).
Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries: The state of Virginia will furnish a gravesite, open and close the grave, order and place the grave marker, and provide perpetual care for the Veteran and their spouse/ eligible dependent. There is no cost to the veteran for these services. For the spouse/ eligible dependent, the cost is $300. Burial in a state Veteran's cemetery (Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, Albert G. Horton Jr, Memorial Veterans Cemetery and Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery) is based on military service.
Eligibility: The eligibility criterion is the same criteria for burial in VA national cemeteries. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces who die on active duty, who retire from military service, or who are honorably discharged are eligible for burial in one of Virginia's Veterans cemeteries. The legal spouse (or widow or widower) and/or an unmarried minor child under age 21 meets eligibility requirements.
Army National Guard Benefits
State Tax Advantage: Deduction of up to $15,000 of basic pay (does not apply if basic pay income is over $30,000).
Eligibility: Must be a member of the military stationed inside or outside Virginia. For every $1.00 of income over $15,000, the maximum subtraction is reduced by $1.00. For example, if basic pay is $16,000, the Soldier is entitled to deduct only $14,000.
Exemption for Virginia National Guard Income: Up to $3,000 of National Guard income.
Eligibility: Must be a member of Virginia National Guard, up to the rank of Captain (03).
VA NG State Tuition Assistance Program (VNGSTAP): Funds 100% of tuition costs remaining after all Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) benefits are applied, at any Virginia state supported school. Maximum VNGSTAP benefit is $6,000 per year, or $2,000 maximum per semester (fall, spring, and summer). VA Guard members are also offered in-state tuition rates as long as they are receiving State Tuition Assistance. Total tuition assistance for private institutions may not exceed the above rates. Subject to availability of funds, VNGSTAP recipients receive up to $350 per semester for textbooks. The VNGSTAP can be combined with the GI Bill.
Eligibility: Virginia Army National Guard member.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 15 work days of paid military leave annually.
Eligibility: Army National Guard and US Army Reserve Soldiers.
Virginia Employment Commission (VEC): VEC provides job referral and placement resources available to assist Veterans in finding jobs. Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) staff are available in most VEC offices to assist Veterans with employment services. Priority of service means, with respect to any qualified Department of Labor employment and job-training programs, that Veterans 1 and Eligible Spouses 2 shall be given priority over non-Veterans for the receipt of employment, training, and placement services.
Department of Human Resource Management - Veteran Outreach Services: The Department of Human Resource Management places great importance on providing Veterans access to information about employment services and assistance.
Veteran Armed Forces: Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is a $10.00 annually. Personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually and is available with a disabled symbol.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of DD214 showing honorable discharge.
National Guard Plate: No plate fee and National Guard members receive half off County sticker with purchase of National Guard tags. Auto tags can be purchased at 1/2 price.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of certification 'AG of VA Form 66.'
National Guard Retired Plate: There is no fee for the National Guard Retired Plate and the personalized plate fee is $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Must provide copy of certification 'AG OF VA Form 66'
Medical Benefits: Full medical benefits through worker's compensation.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Workers Compensation: Full worker's compensation.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Injury and Death Benefits: Full worker's compensation at maximum level benefits.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member.
Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries: The state of Virginia will furnish a gravesite, open and close the grave, order and place the grave marker, and provide perpetual care for the Veteran and their spouse/ eligible dependent. There is no cost to the veteran for these services. For the spouse/ eligible dependent, the cost is $300. Burial in a state Veteran's cemetery (Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, Albert G. Horton Jr, Memorial Veterans Cemetery and Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery) is based on military service.
Eligibility: The eligibility criterion is the same criteria for burial in VA national cemeteries. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces who die on active duty, who retire from military service, or who are honorably discharged are eligible for burial in one of Virginia's Veterans cemeteries. The legal spouse (or widow or widower) and/or an unmarried minor child under age 21 meets eligibility requirements.
US Army Reserve Benefits
State Tax Advantage: Deduction of up to $15,000 of basic pay (does not apply if basic pay income is over $30,000).
Eligibility: Must be a member of the military stationed inside or outside Virginia. For every $1.00 of income over $15,000, the maximum subtraction is reduced by $1.00. For example, if basic pay is $16,000, the Soldier is entitled to deduct only $14,000.
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 15 work days of paid military leave annually.
Eligibility: Army National Guard and US Army Reserve Soldiers
Virginia Employment Commission (VEC): VEC provides job referral and placement resources available to assist Veterans in finding jobs. Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) staff are available in most VEC offices to assist Veterans with employment services.
Department of Human Resource Management - Veteran Outreach Services: The Department of Human Resource Management places great importance on providing Veterans access to information about employment services and assistance.
Army Reserve Plate: Army Reserve Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is $10.00 annually and the personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually.
Eligibility: Certification from the Army Reserve Commanding General's Office.
Veteran Armed Forces Plate: Plate fee (in addition to registration fee) is a $10.00 annual fee. Personalized plate fee is an additional $10.00 annually and is available with a disabled symbol.
Eligibility: Must provide a copy of DD214 showing honorable discharge.
Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries: The state of Virginia will furnish a gravesite, open and close the grave, order and place the grave marker, and provide perpetual care for the Veteran and their spouse/ eligible dependent. There is no cost to the veteran for these services. For the spouse/ eligible dependent, the cost is $300. Burial in a state Veteran's cemetery (Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, Albert G. Horton Jr, Memorial Veterans Cemetery and Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery) is based on military service.
Eligibility: The eligibility criterion is the same criteria for burial in VA national cemeteries. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces who die on active duty, who retire from military service, or who are honorably discharged are eligible for burial in one of Virginia's Veterans cemeteries. The legal spouse (or widow or widower) and/or an unmarried minor child under age 21 meets eligibility requirements.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Facilities in Virginia
Veterans Health Administration
VA Medical Center
Hampton: Hampton VA Medical Center, 100 Emancipation Dr, 757-722-9961
Richmond: Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, 1201 Broad Rock Blvd, 804-675-5000
Salem: Salem VA Medical Center, 1970 Roanoke Blvd, 540-982-2463 / 888-982-2463
Outpatient Clinic
Bristol: Bristol, Virginia OPC, 2426 Lee Hwy, 276-645-4520
Community Based Patient Clinic
Charlottesville: Charlottesville CBOC, 650 Peter Jefferson Pkwy, 434-293-3890
Danville: Danville CBOC, 705 Piney Forest Rd, 434-710-4210
Emporia: Emporia CBOC, 434-348-1055, 1746 East Atlantic, 434-348-1055
Fort Belvoir: Fort Belvoir Outpatient Clinic, 9300 DeWitt Loop (inside the Sunrise Pavilion), 571-231-2408
Fredericksburg: Fredericksburg CBOC, 130 Executive Center Pkwy, 570-675-6885
Harrisonburg: Harrisonburg Contract Outpatient Clinic, 847 Cantrell Ave, 540-442-1773
Lynchburg: Lynchburg CBOC, 1600 Lakeside Dr, 434-316-5000
Norton: Norton, Virginia CBOC, 654 Hwy 58 East, 276-679-8010
Staunton: Staunton CBOC, 102 Business Way, 540-886-5777
Tazewell: Tazewell CBOC, 123 Ben Bolt Ave, 276-988-2526
Virginia Beach: Virginia Beach CBOC, 244 Clearfield Ave, 757-726-6070
Winchester: Stephens City Outpatient Clinic, 170 Prosperity Dr, 540-869-0600
Wytheville: Wytheville CBOC, 165 Peppers Ferry Rd, 276-223-5400
Vet Center
Alexandria: Alexandria Vet Center, 6940 South Kings Hwy #204, 703-360-8633 / 877-927-8387
Norfolk: Norfolk Vet Center, 1711 Church St, Suites A&B, 757-623-7584 / 877-927-8387
Richmond: Richmond Vet Center, 4902 Fitzhugh Ave, 804-353-8958 / 877-927-8387
Roanoke: Roanoke Vet Center, 350 Albemarle Ave SW, 540-342-9726 / 877-927-8387
Virginia Beach: Virginia Beach County Vet Center, 324 Southport Cir, Suite 102, 757-248-3665 / 877-927-8387
Veterans Benefits Administration
Intake Site
Dahlgren: Dahlgren Naval Station WC, 6027 School House Ln
Regional Office
Roanoke: Roanoke Regional Office, 116 N. Jefferson St, 1-800-827-1000
Intake Site
Fort Lee: Fort Lee, 1403 Mahone Ave
Hampton: Langley Air Force Base, 45 Nealy Ave, Building 15 Ste 100
Norfolk: Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base, Fleet & Family Support Center
Norfolk: Norfolk NB, Regional TAP Office Building U93
Norfolk: Oceana Naval Air Station, Fleet & Family Support Center
Norfolk: Portsmouth Coast Guard, Fleet & Family Support Center
Norfolk: Portsmouth Naval Hospital, Fleet & Family Support Center
Roanoke: Fort Eustis 210 Franklin Rd SW, 800-827-1000
Ft. Belvoir: Fort Belvoir, Bldg# 808 (Old Dewitt), Room A-222
Ft. Myer: Fort Myer, 126 Forest Cir, Bldg# 230, 202-530-9028
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?State=VA&dnum=ALL
http://www.dvs.virginia.gov/veterans-benefits.shtml
http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/exec/vehicle/splates/category.asp?category=M
http://www.dmv.state.va.us/webdoc/citizen/military.asp
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-new-york-wyoming#VIRGINIA
Document Review Date: 19 February 2013