State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Nebraska
Nebraska Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of Nebraska Military and Veteran Benefits: Nebraska offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including the Nebraska Veterans Aid Fund, homestead property tax exemptions, tuition assistance for Service members, Veterans and dependents, special vehicle license plates, as well as hunting and fishing licenses. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.
Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) Veterans Service Office and County Veterans Service Offices: The NDVA has the Veterans Service Office and County Veterans Service Offices that can assist Veterans, retired Service members and their Families find and apply for military or Veterans benefits under federal, state and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
NDVA, State Service Office
3800 Village Drive
Lincoln, NE 68516-4737
Phone:402-420-4021
Fax:402 471-7070
Email: ndva.sso@nebraska.gov
Nebraska County Veterans Service Offices Directory
Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs, State Service Office Directory
Learn more about Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veterans Service Office
Nebraska Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Nebraska Income Taxes on Military Pay:Military pay earned by Nebraska resident Service members is subject to state income taxes.
Learn more about Nebraska Income Taxes on Military Pay
Nebraska National Guard Income Exclusion: For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2025, Service members serving in the Nebraska National Guard can exclude 100% of their National Guard pay from Nebraska income taxes (must be included in their federal adjusted gross income). Service members serving in the following duty statuses are eligible for the income tax exclusion:
- Active duty attending drills, annual training, and military schools
- Active Guard Reserve (AGR)
- Active Duty for Operational Support (ADOS)
- State active duty
- Federal Dual-Status Technician
Learn more about the Nebraska National Guard Income Exclusion
Nebraska State Income Taxes on Military Retired Pay: Military retired pay that is included in their federal gross income is exempt from Nebraska income tax.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. TSP distributions after retirement are not subject to state taxes, early distributions may incur higher taxes.
Nebraska Revised Statutes 77-2716 15(b)
Learn more about Nebraska State Income Taxes on Military Retired Pay
Nebraska Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military disability retirement pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:
- Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their Families
- Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
- Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program.
See IRS Publication 525 for more information.
Learn more about Nebraska Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay
Nebraska State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of U.S. Armed Forces Service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
Nebraska State Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not taxed in Nebraska.
Combat Zones Exclusion and Filing Extensions for Nebraska Income Taxes for Deployed Service Members: Nebraska follows federal guidelines for tax filing extensions and tax exempt military pay received by a Service member while serving in a designated combat zone, contingency operation, or in a qualified hazardous duty area.
IRS Extension of Deadlines Information
IRS Combat and Hazardous Duty Areas for Tax Purposes
Nebraska Wartime Veteran and Surviving Spouse Homestead Property Tax Exemptions: The Nebraska Homestead Exemption Program offers a full or partial property tax exemption for eligible Veterans and Surviving Spouses on their homestead and one acre of land. To qualify the Veteran or Surviving Spouse must own and occupy the homestead January 1 through August 15 of the taxable year.
Veterans must have received an honorable discharge and served during one of the following wartime periods:
- World War II, December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946
- Korean War, June 25, 1950, through January 31, 1955
- Vietnam War, February 28, 1961, through May 7, 1975 (in the Republic of Vietnam)
- Vietnam War, August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975
- Lebanon, August 25, 1982, through February 26, 1984
- Grenada, October 23, 1983, through November 23, 1983
- Panama, December 20, 1989, through January 31, 1990
- Persian Gulf War beginning August 2, 1990
- Global War on Terror beginning September 14, 2001, through September 11, 2021
Non-Service-Connected Totally Disabled Veterans – Partial exemption based on income limits: This exemption is available for Veterans who have a non-service-connected total disability rating from the VA and is based on Household Income Limits. Household income determines the percentage of exemption the Veteran is eligible for.
Service-Connected Totally Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses – 100% exempt: This exemption is available to Veterans who are receiving compensation for a permanent 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA. The homestead is 100% exempt regardless of homestead value and income level. Veteran or Surviving Spouse must meet the following requirements
- Veteran who is receiving compensation for a permanent 100% service-connected disability
- Surviving Spouse (who does not remarry until age 57) and was married to a disabled Veteran who:
- Died due to a service-connected disability
- Died while on active duty and was service-connected
- Died while on active duty during wartime
Veterans and Surviving Spouses Whose Home was Purchased or Modified with Funds from the VA – 100% exempt This exemption is available to a Veteran who is paraplegic or has multiple amputations whose home was substantially contributed to by the VA. This homestead is 100% exempt regardless of homestead value and income level. This exemption is also available to the Surviving Spouse if they do not remarry until age 57.
Applications are made through local county assessors. All forms must be filed after February 1 and before June 30 each year.
Nebraska Department of Revenue, Nebraska Homestead Exemption Instructions and Application (Form 458)
Nebraska Department of Revenue, Nebraska Homestead Forms and Information Webpage
Nebraska County Assessor Directory
Learn more about Nebraska Wartime Veteran and Surviving Spouse Homestead Property Tax Exemptions
Nebraska Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption: Nebraska offers the Nebraska Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption for one motor vehicle owned and used for personal transportation by a disabled or blind Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who is eligible for Nebraska Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption? To be eligible Veterans must have received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge and suffered one of the following injuries:
- Lost or lost the use of two or more extremities
- Blind, defined as someone whose sight is so impaired as to seriously limit their ability to engage in ordinary activities
For more information or to apply, Veterans should contact the County Treasurer in their county of residence.
Nebraska County Treasurer Directory
Learn more about the Nebraska Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption
Phase out of Nebraska Taxes on Social Security Benefits: Nebraska is phasing out state taxes on Social Security benefits. The following percentages of Social Security benefits are authorized to be excluded from Nebraska income tax:
- 60% for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2023, and before January 1, 2024
- 80% for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2024, and before January 1, 2025
- 100% for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2025
Learn more about the Phase out of Nebraska Taxes on Social Security Benefits
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Nebraska Residency for Tuition Purposes for Service Members, Veterans and their 
Dependents: Nebraska offers residency for tuition purposes to eligible Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, Veterans and their dependents.
Who is eligible for Nebraska Residency for Tuition Purposes? One of following requirements must be met for a student to be considered a resident:
- Service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who has been assigned to a permanent duty station in Nebraska, their Spouse and dependents
- Honorably discharged Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who kept their residency in Nebraska, or is a graduate of a Nebraska high school and has established a home in Nebraska with the intent to make Nebraska their permanent residence
- Veteran who was discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces, their Spouse and dependents; the Veteran must register to vote in Nebraska and demonstrate the intent to become a resident of Nebraska
- Nebraska National Guard Service member
Nebraska Waiver of Tuition Program: Nebraska will waive 100% of tuition and tuition-related fees for the eligible dependents of certain Veterans at a University of Nebraska campus, Nebraska State College, or Nebraska Community College. Students can use the program for one degree, diploma, or certificate from a community college and one baccalaureate degree from a state college or university.
This waiver does not cover non-tuition-related fees, including, housing, food costs, parking fees, and any necessary books or course materials.
Who is eligible for the Nebraska Waiver of Tuition Program? This benefit is available to the Spouse, Surviving Spouse, biological Child, adopted Child, or stepchild of a Veteran who meets one of the following criteria:
- Has a total and permanent service-connected disability
- Died from a service-connected disability
- Died after discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces as a result of an injury or illness they sustained during their service
- Declared missing in action or a prisoner of war
Students must meet Nebraska residency requirements for in-state tuition. Eligibility for dependent Children ends at age 26 but may be extended, if the Child served on active duty with the U.S. Armed Forces after their 18th birthday, but before their 26th birthday. The student's eligibility for a waiver will end five years after their first discharge from active duty service or after their 31st birthday whichever comes first.
To apply students must complete the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Application for Waiver of Tuition, please note that Part VI of the application must be completed by the educational institution. Applicants must submit their completed application with supporting documentation to the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs:
Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs
Attn: Waiver of Tuition
PO Box 95083
Lincoln, NE 68509
Fax: 402-742-1142, Attn: Waiver of Tuition
Email: ndva@nebraska.gov, Subject: Waiver of Tuition
Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs, Confidential Document Upload
Nebraska Waiver of Tuition Program Flyer
Participating Nebraska Educational Institutions
Learn more about the Nebraska Waiver of Tuition Program
Nebraska Reservist Tuition Credit Program: Nebraska residents serving in a Nebraska-based unit 
of a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces may be eligible for a 75% tuition credit (50% for graduate or professional degrees) at University of Nebraska campuses, Nebraska State Colleges, and Nebraska Community Colleges. This program allows 200 new applicants each calendar year. There is no lifetime limit on tuition credit for a qualifying Service member.
Nebraska Revise Statutes 80-901
Who is eligible for the Nebraska Reservist Tuition Credit Program? This program is offered to Nebraska National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members who meet the following requirements:
- Nebraska resident
- Unit is based in Nebraska
- Agree to serve a minimum of three years
- Pursuing a course of study leading to a degree or certificate
Applicants must complete the Nebraska Application for Reservist Tuition Credit and have their unit complete Part: II. Service members must submit their completed application to the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs:
Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs
ATTN: Reservist Tuition Credit
PO Box 95083
Lincoln, NE 68509-5083
Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs, Confidential Document Upload
Nebraska Reservist Tuition Credit Flyer
Participating Nebraska Educational Institutions
Learn more about the Nebraska Reservist Tuition Credit Program
Nebraska “Operation Recognition” High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans: Nebraska 
Operation Recognition will award honorary high School diplomas to Veterans who left a Nebraska high school before graduating to serve in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam.
Who is eligible for the Nebraska “Operation Recognition” High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans? To be eligible Veterans must have served on active duty and received an Honorable Discharge for service during one of the following time periods:
- World War II - December 7, 1940, through December 31, 1946
- Korean War - June 25, 1950, through January 31, 1955
- Vietnam War - November 1, 1955, through May 7, 1975
Veterans currently living out of state are eligible if they are a former Nebraska resident. To apply Veterans must complete the Operation Recognition, Honorary High School Diploma Application for Nebraska Veterans, and provide a copy of their discharge papers to:
Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs
ATTN: Operation Recognition
PO Box 95083
Lincoln, NE 68509
Learn more about the Nebraska “Operation Recognition” High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans
Nebraska Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): The 
purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on Children of military Families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by:
- Facilitating the prompt enrollment of Children of military Families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
- Facilitating the student placement process through which Children of military Families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic and social activities
- Facilitating the on-time graduation of Children of military Families
- Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
- Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools and military Families under this compact
- Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military Children
- Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents and the student in order to achieve educational success for the student
Points of Contact
Phone: 402-471-0732 / 402-471-5047
Learn more about the Nebraska Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Purple Star Designation for Nebraska Military-Friendly Schools: The Nebraska Purple Star 
School program recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and Families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.
For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Award they must appoint a school liaison who is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military Families. This liaison will ensure that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military Families can benefit from. Each recognized school will also have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military Families.
Nebraska Purple Star Schools
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program
Learn more about the Purple Star Designation for Nebraska Military-Friendly Schools
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Nebraska State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference: Veterans, Service members, and 
Spouses are offered Veterans hiring preference when applying for initial or return employment with Nebraska state or local government.
Veterans who receive passing scores on all parts of an examination or numerical scoring will have 5% added to their passing score. An additional 5% will be added to the passing scores of a disabled Veteran. This preference will also be given to the Spouse of an active duty Service member, and for up to 180 days after the Service member is discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces.
All notices of positions of employment available for Veterans Preference and applications for positions must state that the position is subject to a Veterans Preference. Veterans who apply and are not hired are notified and advised of any administrative appeal available.
Nebraska Revised Statues 48-227
Learn more about Nebraska State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference
Nebraska Private Sector Voluntary Veterans Hiring Preference: The Nebraska Voluntary Veterans Preference Act allows private sector employers to have a Veteran hiring preference policy and to have their job openings listed on the Nebraska Department of Labor’s Voluntary Veterans Preference Registry. Nebraska Revised Statutes 48-238
Learn more about the Nebraska Private Sector Voluntary Veterans Hiring Preference
Nebraska Veteran Employment Services: The Nebraska Department of Labor provides employment services to eligible Veterans and their Spouses that offers a full range of public employment and training services. Those eligible will receive priority of service which means if they meet eligibility requirements for a program or service, they will receive access to that program or service either earlier in time or instead of those not eligible.
Some of the services offered include:
- Career assessment and counseling
- Assistance with resumes, cover letters, and interviewing skills
- Support service referrals
- Job placement assistance and referrals
- Information on careers, training, education, and financial aid
- Job search workshops
- Labor market information
- Computers with internet access
- Assistance with navigating computer programs
- Help with online job application process
Who is eligible for Nebraska Veteran Employment Services? Services are provided to:
- Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
- Spouses of Veterans who have total service-connected disabilities or who died as a result of service-connected disabilities
Some Veterans, Service members and eligible Spouses can receive additional services if they meet the following requirements:
- 18 to 24 years old
- Disabled Veteran according to the VA or has a disability claim pending with the VA or was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability
- Homeless
- Vietnam era Veteran
- Separated from the U.S. Armed Forces in the last 36 months and unemployed for 27 or more weeks within the last year
- Involved with the criminal justice system
- Does not have a high school diploma or GED
- Receives public assistance or considered low income
- Service member leaving the U.S. Armed Forces soon and needs career services
- Service member who is wounded, injured or ill and is receiving treatment at a Military Treatment Facility or Warrior Transition Unit
- Spouse or Family caregiver of a Service member being treated at a Military Treatment Facility or Warrior Transition Unit
For more information, those interested can use the Nebraska Department of Labor, online contact webpage (select “Email Us” tab) or visit a Nebraska Job Center.
Nebraska Department of Labor, Job Center Directory
Learn more about Nebraska Veteran Employment Services
Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.
5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:
- During a war, or
- During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
- During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
- In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference
10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: Ten points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .
10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.
10-Point Disability Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
- A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
- A Veteran who received a Purple Heart
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of Spouses, Surviving Spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a Spouse (including Surviving Spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.
Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the Spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:
- Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
- Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
- Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability
Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.
A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.
Learn more about Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects Service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.
Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that an 
individual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.
Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.
Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning Service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning Service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.
Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for Service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the Service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits? Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve or National Guard Service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.
The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Nebraska State Employee Military Leave for 
Reserve Component Service Members: Nebraska state employees who are Service members serving in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves are entitled to a military leave of absence from their duties, without loss of pay, the amount of leave is based on the number of hours they are regularly scheduled to work:
- Scheduled to work 159 hours or more in 3 consecutive weeks in 24 hour shifts - eligible for 168 hours of military leave each calendar year
- Scheduled to work 120 hours or more but less than 159 hours in 3 consecutive weeks - eligible for 120 hours of military leave each calendar year
- Scheduled to work less than 120 hours in 3 consecutive weeks - eligible for military leave equal to the number of hours they normally work or would normally be scheduled to work, whichever is greater
In addition, during a state of emergency greater than 15-work days, a “state of emergency leave of absence" is granted until the Service member is released from active duty service. During the emergency, the employee will receive their normal salary minus their active duty base pay.
Who is eligible for Nebraska State Employee Military Leave? State employees who are National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members on official orders are eligible.
Learn more about Nebraska State Employee Military Leave for Reserve Component Service Members
Pay Compensation for Nebraska National Guard Service Members ordered to Active Duty: 
National Guard Service members ordered to state active duty will receive compensation at the same rate as a Service member of equal rank in the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as reimbursement for travel expenses.
In addition, the Service member is entitled to reimbursement of 100% of the cost of their privately purchased health insurance or up to 102% of the cost of their employer-provided health insurance when they are ordered to state or federal active duty.
Who is eligible for Pay Compensation for Nebraska National Guard Service Members ordered to Active Duty? National Guard Service members ordered to state active duty are eligible for compensation.
Learn more about Pay Compensation for Nebraska National Guard Service Members Ordered to Active Duty
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance?
Nebraska Unemployment Insurance (UI): The UI Benefits Division of the Nebraska Department of Labor is responsible for UI benefits and compensation that provides temporary financial assistance for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement of lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income. Benefits are not based on financial need. Applicants must be able and available for work to be eligible for UI benefits.
Claims must be filed using the NEworks Unemployment Claims Online Portal. Applicants who do not have internet access or have a disability requiring assistive technology should visit a NEworks Job Center to file a claim.
Applicants will need the following information to apply for UI:
- Social Security number
- Complete home mailing address, including ZIP code
- Telephone number
- Email address
- County of residence
- Driver's license number or state ID card number
- For direct deposit, bank routing number and account number
- Company names for all employers for the past 18 months as it appears on paycheck stubs or W-2 forms
- Complete mailing addresses of employers, including ZIP code and the city where the business is physically located
- Start and end dates of employment with each employer, including month, day, and year
- Reason for leaving each employer (lack of work, voluntary quit, discharged, leave of absence)
- Employment authorization number and expiration date (if a non-citizen)
- DD214, Member Copy 4, if applicant served in the U.S. Armed Forces in the past 18 months
- SF8 or SF50 if applicant was a civilian federal government employee in the last 18 months
NEworks UI Handbook for Unemployed Workers
NEworks Claim Instructions
For claims assistance please call the Nebraska Claims Center at 402-458-2500 or email NDOL.UnemploymentHelp@nebraska.gov. Applicants can also receive in person claim filing assistance at their nearest Nebraska Job Center.
Learn more about Nebraska Unemployment Insurance
What are my Military and Veterans Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits?
Veterans’ Designation on Nebraska Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Veterans who received an 
Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge can request a Veterans’ designation to be displayed on Nebraska driver’s licenses or ID cards.
Nebraska Revised Statutes 60-4,189
Veterans must first register on the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs, Military and Veterans’ Registry.
Once the registration has been confirmed by the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Veterans can request the designation be added at the time of renewal, for no additional fee, or they may apply for a replacement document online, or at any driver licensing office, the regular replacement document fee will be charged.
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, Online License Renewal Webpage
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles Locations Directory
Learn more about Veterans’ Designation on Nebraska Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards
Nebraska Driver's License Expiration Extension for Active Duty Service Members and their Families: The driver’s license of active duty Service members and their dependents stationed outside Nebraska remains valid until 60 days following discharge or they return to Nebraska, whichever is later.
Those who qualify must request a Form 07-08 from the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles. Form 07-08 is a small card that is attached to the driver license.
To request a 07-08 card, send a signed and dated written request, copy of their Nebraska driver’s license, a copy of their current orders and the address the Form 07-08 will be mailed to:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver and Vehicle Records Division
Attn: Military Exemption
P.O. Box 94789
Lincoln, NE 68509-4789
Fax: 402-471-8694
Email: dmv.dvrweb@nebraska.gov
Military Out-of-State Renewal of Nebraska Driver’s License: Service members and their Families who choose not to apply for the Military Exemption (in section above) can renew their license at the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles online renewal webpage or by mail (follow the instructions at the Out-Of-State Renewal tab at the Learn more… link below). Applicants must provide a copy of one of the following:
- Current orders
- Leave papers
- Discharge papers (valid for 60 days after discharge date)
- Military ID card
Service members who no longer have a physical Nebraska address, will also have to provide a current Leave and Earnings Statement showing taxes paid to Nebraska and two forms of proof of their current address.
Learn more about Military Out-of-State Renewal of Nebraska Driver's License
Nebraska Military License Plates: The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers six distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible Service members, Veterans, retired Service members their and Families. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply. Military License Plates may be used on motor vehicles, motorcycles, trailers, semitrailers and cabin trailers. There is no limit to the number of motor vehicles or trailers owned or leased by the applicant that may be licensed with a military license plate.
All applicants must first register with the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs, Military and Veterans’ Registry and provide proof of eligibility for the specific license plate they are requesting.
Once their registration has been confirmed, applicants can apply for Nebraska Military License Plates online at the Nebraska DMV, Order Specialty Plates webpage (select “Order Specialty Plates” in the Registration/Plate Management section), or by mail to:
Nebraska DMV
Driver and Vehicle Records Division
PO Box 94789
Lincoln, NE 68509-4789
Once the DMV application has been processed, the applicant will receive notification advising them of the date their plates are available at their County Treasurer's office. All registration fees and taxes apply and must be paid to the County Treasurer in the county where the vehicle is registered. For more information regarding Military License Plates applicants can use the Nebraska DMV online contact webpage, or call 402-471-3918.
Nebraska County Treasurer Directory
Learn more about Nebraska Military License Plates
Nebraska Purple Heart License Plate: Nebraska Purple Heart license plates are available for 
recipients of the Purple Heart.
Who is eligible for the Nebraska Purple Heart License Plate? Currently serving Service members and Veterans who received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge and were awarded the Purple Heart are eligible.
Nebraska Revised Statutes 60-3, 125
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, Application for Purple Heart License Plate
Learn more about the Nebraska Purple Heart License Plate
Nebraska Disabled American (DAV) Veteran License Plate: DAV license plates are available for 
disabled Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who is eligible for the Nebraska DAV License Plate? The Nebraska DAV license plates are available to U.S. Armed Forces Veterans who received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge and have a 100% service-connected disability rating. Applicants must provide official documentation of proof of their disability rating. Veterans who qualify for this license plate may be eligible for the Nebraska Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption (see in State Taxes Section above).
Nebraska Revised Statutes 60-3, 124
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, Application for Disabled American Veteran License Plate
Learn more about the Nebraska Disabled American Veteran License Plate
Nebraska Military Honor License Plates: Nebraska Military Honor license plates are available for Veterans and Service members currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Military Honor license plate applicants have the option to choose a picture of their branch of service, service component, or an image of one of the following medals:
- Afghanistan Campaign
- Iraq Campaign
- Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Expeditionary
- Southwest Asia Service
- Vietnam Service
Who is eligible for Nebraska Military Honor License Plates? Currently serving Service members and Veterans who received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge are eligible for Military Honor license plates. Nebraska Revised Statutes 60-3, 122.04
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, Application for Military Honor/Reserve License Plates
Learn more about Nebraska Military Honor License Plates
Nebraska Gold Star Family License Plate: Nebraska Gold Star Family license plates are available 
for Family members of a Service members who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who is eligible for Nebraska Gold Star Family License Plates? Nebraska Gold Star Family license plates are available to the following Family members:
- Surviving Spouse - whether remarried or not
- Ancestor - including a stepparent
- Descendent - including a stepchild
- Foster parent or a person in loco parentis
- Sibling
Nebraska Revised Statutes 60-3, 122.02
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, Application for Gold Star Family License Plates
Learn more about the Nebraska Gold Star Family License Plate
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
Nebraska National Guard Workers’ Compensation Coverage and Benefits for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty: Nebraska National Guard Service members who are injured, become ill, disabled or die while serving on state active duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act.
Who is eligible for Nebraska National Guard Workers’ Compensation Coverage and Benefits for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty? Nebraska National Guard Service members serving on state active duty are eligible.
National Guard Association of Nebraska State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered 
through the National Guard Association of Nebraska to Nebraska National Guard Service members is made up of several voluntary group life policies and is designed to help meet the needs of National Guard Service members and their Families. Every member of the Nebraska National Guard is covered with $1,000 SSLI at no cost to the Service member.
Key Benefits of the SSLI:
- Up to $1,000,000 in coverage available through a combination of the SSLI plans
- Coverage available for Spouse and Children
- Service members can keep the coverage when they separate, and their rates will not increase
- Coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- No war or aviation exclusion
- New Recruits are eligible for $10,000 SSLI coverage at no cost for the first year of service in the Nebraska National Guard (must enroll within 180 days of joining the National Guard)
Who is eligible for National Guard Association of Nebraska SSLI? Nebraska National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for SSLI.
For more information, please visit the National Guard SSLI webpage, or call 800-633-8333.
Learn more about the National Guard Association of Nebraska State Sponsored Life Insurance
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance: The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component Service members and their Families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
- Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
- Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
- Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
- Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
- Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance
TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard Service members) and their Families who meet the following qualifications:
- Not on active duty orders
- Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
- Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a Family member
The plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a Service member is not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Nonresident Active Duty Service Members Stationed in Nebraska May Purchase Nebraska Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permits for Resident Prices: Nonresident Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Nebraska for 30 days or more may purchase hunting, fishing and fur harvesting permits at the resident rate.
Free Nebraska Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Small Game Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest 
Permit: Nebraska resident disabled Veterans may be eligible for the free Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Small Game Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permit that includes all state stamps.
Who is eligible for the Free Nebraska Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Small Game Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permit? Nebraska resident disabled Veterans who received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge and have a 50% or more service-connected disability rating, or a 100% non-service-connected disability rating and are receiving a pension from the VA are eligible.
A VA Veteran Service Center Manager must sign initial applications, completed Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Resident Disabled Veteran Permit Application can be mailed to:
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
3800 Village Drive
Lincoln, NE 68516-4737
Phone: 800-827-1000
Nebraska Veteran’s Annual Small Game Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permit for Resident Veterans: Veterans over age 64 are eligible for a Nebraska Veteran’s Annual Small Game Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permit for $5. This permit includes all state stamps.
Who is eligible for Nebraska Veteran’s Annual Small Game Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permit for Resident Veterans? Nebraska resident Veterans, who are 64 years old or older, and received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge are eligible.
Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214 or Nebraska Veterans’ designation driver’s license. If a Veteran does not have a copy of their DD214 and does not have the Veterans’ designation driver’s license a Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, County Veterans Service Officer must certify their initial applications. Veterans can apply by submitting a completed Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Resident Veteran 64 and Older Application, required fee and documentation at a Nebraska Game and Parks Office or Service Center, a Nebraska State Park, or by mail to:
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Attention: Permit Section
PO Box 30370
Lincoln, NE 68503-0370
Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, County Veterans Service Offices Directory
Nebraska Deployed Military Discounted Combination Hunting, Fishing and Fur Harvest Permit: Nebraska residents who are or have been deployed out of state while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces within the last 12 months are eligible for a combination hunting, fishing and fur harvest permit on a one-time basis for $5. This permit includes all state stamps.
Service member must submit a completed Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Application for Deployed Military Hunting/Fishing/Fur Harvest Combo Permit, a copy of their deployment orders and a check for $5 at a Nebraska Game and Parks Office or Service Center, a Nebraska State Park, or by mail to:
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Attention: Permit Section
PO Box 30370
Lincoln, NE 68503-0370
Nebraska Free Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Park Entry Permit: Nebraska disabled Veterans may be eligible for a free Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Park Entry Permit. This permit authorizes free entry to Nebraska State Parks.
Who is eligible for the Nebraska Free Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Park Entry Permit? Nebraska resident disabled Veterans who received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge and have a 50% or more service-connected disability rating, or 100% non-service-connected disability rating and are receiving a pension from the VA are eligible.
Veterans must send a completed Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Application for Veteran Permits to the VA in Lincoln for certification or, to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Permit Section if they already have a Disabled Veteran’s Lifetime Small Game Hunt/Fish/Fur Harvest Permit.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
3800 Village Drive
Lincoln, NE 68516-4737
Phone: 800-827-1000
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Permit Section
PO Box 30370
Lincoln, NE 68503-0370
Learn more about the Nebraska Disabled Veteran's Lifetime Park Entry Permit
What are my Nebraska Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Nebraska Veteran Discharge Documents: The Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs (NDVA) maintains thousands of discharge documents for Nebraska Veterans and will provide them on request. If a Veteran entered service from and returned to Nebraska when they separated from U.S. Armed Forces, a copy of their discharge may be on file.
Veterans can determine if the NDVA has a copy of their discharge documents on file by completing the records request form at the bottom of the page at the “Learn more…” link below. Veterans can also contact their County Veterans Service Office if they previously filed a copy of their discharge with their county.
Copies of discharges may also be requested from the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri by completing a Department of Defense Standard Form 180 or by submitting an online request to the National Archives, National Personnel Records Center online request page. For more information, please call 402-471-2458.
Nebraska County Veterans Service Office Directory
Learn more about Nebraska Veteran Discharge Documents
Nebraska Veterans’ Homes: Nebraska has four Veterans’ homes that offer domiciliary care, intermediate care, and skilled nursing care to Veterans and their eligible Family members.
Nebraska Veterans’ Homes Locations:
Central Nebraska Veterans' Home (CNVH) - 225 bed facility 
4510 E 56th Street
Kearney, NE 68847
Phone: 308-865-6000
Norfolk Veterans' Home (NVH) - 159 bed facility 
600 East Benjamin Avenue
Norfolk, NE 68701
Phone: 402-370-3330
Eastern Nebraska Veterans' Home (ENVH) – 120 bed facility, 30 bed memory support care unit
12505 Harrison Tull Drive
Bellevue, NE 68123
Phone: 402-595-2180
Western Nebraska Veterans' Home (WNVH) - 109 bed facility
1102 West 42 nd Street
Scottsbluff, NE 69361
Phone: 308-632-0300
Some of the services offered at the Nebraska Veterans’ Homes include:
- Physical, occupational, speech and restorative nursing therapies
- Hospice and palliative care
- Memory support care units
Who is eligible for care at a Nebraska Veterans’ Home?
Veteran Eligibility:
- Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than for training) and received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge
- Resident of Nebraska for at least two years
- Unable to earn a livelihood
- Dependent completely or partially on public charities, or the type of care needed is available only at a state institution
Spouse Eligibility:
- Spouse who has been married to an eligible Veteran for at least two years prior to application
- 50 years old or older
- Unable to earn a livelihood
- Dependent completely or partially on public charities, or the type of care needed is available only at a state institution
Surviving Spouse and Gold Star Parents Eligibility:
- Surviving Spouse or parents of a Service member who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or from a service-connected disability
- Nebraska resident for at least two years prior to application
- 50 years old or older
- Unable to earn a livelihood
- Dependent completely or partially on public charities, or the type of care needed is available only at a state institution
Nebraska Revised Statutes 80-316
Applicants can apply through any of the following organizations:
- Directly to a Nebraska State Veterans’ Home
- Nebraska County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) in their county of residence
- Through a recognized Veteran’s organization in Nebraska:
- American Legion
- AMVETS
- DAV
- Marine Corps League
- Military Order of the Purple Heart
- Paralyzed Veterans of America
- Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
- Vietnam Veterans of America
Nebraska CVSO Directory
Nebraska Veterans' Homes Brochure
Learn more about the Nebraska Veterans’ Homes
Nebraska Veterans Aid (NVA) Fund: NVA is a temporary emergency aid fund to assist Veterans, their Spouses, and dependents when an unforeseen emergency happens that disrupts their lives and when other resources are not immediately available. Aid can only be used for the following expenses:
- Food
- Fuel
- Shelter
- Transportation
- Daycare
- Clothing
- Funeral expenses
- Medical and Surgical expenses
Who is eligible for the NVA Fund? Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than for training), and received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge
- Died while serving on active duty, or as a direct result of their service
- U.S. citizen who served honorably in the military forces of an allied government during an established wartime period
- Dependent of an eligible Veteran
Applicants can apply through their nearest Nebraska County Veteran Service Office (CVSO), or Post Service Officer of a recognized Veterans' organization located in the county nearest the applicant’s residence.
NVA Flyer
Nebraska CVSO Directory
Learn more about the Nebraska Veterans Aid Fund
Nebraska Veterans Grave Registry: The Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs maintains a permanent registry of the graves of all Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and were buried in Nebraska. Information concerning the registry can be requested from Nebraska County Veteran Service Offices.
Nebraska County Veterans Service Office Directory
Learn more about the Nebraska Veterans Grave Registry
Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance (NVCA): The NVCA offers a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible Family members. 
NVCA is in Alliance, Nebraska and is open for visitation of graves from dawn to dusk, 7 days a week. The Administration building is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., MST. Employees are available during this time to schedule and conduct burials.
NVCA offers a committal shelter for casket-side services, a memorial garden for the spreading of cremated remains as well as an upright headstone for each grave.
Who is eligible for Burial at the NVCA? Eligibility requirements for the burial at the NVCA are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:
- Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
- Died while serving on active duty, or
- Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their death occurred before age 60), or
- Reserve component Service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
- Spouses and dependents (burial of dependent Children is limited to unmarried Children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a Child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the NVCA, Eligibility Determination Request to establish eligibility prior to need. If an Eligibility Determination Request has not been submitted and a Family has immediate need they may submit the NVCA, Request for Interment. All requests must include copies of the Veteran's discharge papers (DD214), marriage license for the Spouse, birth certificate(s) for dependent Child(ren), and (if applicable) the death certificate for the Veteran. Applications and required documentation can be mailed to:
Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance
2610 CR 57
PO Box 718
Alliance, NE 69301
Phone:308-763-2958 / 877-420-7990
Requests may also be submitted in person at the NVCA Administration Building, 2610 County Road 57, Alliance, NE 69301.
NVCA Information
NVCA Brochure
Learn more about the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance
Nebraska Vets Get Pets Program: The Nebraska Vets Get Pets program will provide up to $350 to 
eligible Veterans to pay for pet adoption fees. The Vets Get Pets program will only pay adoption fees once for an eligible Veteran. Animals must be adopted from a shelter or rescue licensed by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
Approved Animal Shelters and Rescues List Request
Who is eligible for the Nebraska Vets Get Pets Program? Veterans must beregistered in the Nebraska Veterans' Registry to be eligible.
To start the application process Veterans must submit a Vets Get Pets Application, to include the completed shelter or rescue portion of the application. Veterans can submit their application online using the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Confidential Document Submission webpage, select Vets Get Pets from the Program section. When approved, the Veteran will have two weeks to finalize an adoption. For more information, please call 402-471-2458, or email ndva@nebraska.gov.
Nebraska Vets Get Pets Brochure
Learn more about the Nebraska Vets Get Pets Program
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Nebraska
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Nebraska: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and Family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Nebraska
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Nebraska: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains three national cemeteries in Nebraska. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Nebraska
Military Installations in Nebraska
Please see the Nebraska Military Resource Locator for additional information.
Active Duty
Air Force
Offutt AFB
National Guard
Nebraska National Guard
Nebraska Air National Guard
155 th Air Refueling Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
88 th Readiness Division
Nebraska Department of Revenue
Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Nebraska
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, License Plates
Nebraska Department of Labor, Unemployment Insurance Benefits
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Veterans and Military Permits
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Guide to Veteran's Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory