New Hampshire Military and Veterans Benefits

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State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Division of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in New Hampshire
New Hampshire Military Resource Locator
Resources

Summary of New Hampshire Military and Veterans Benefits: New Hampshire offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including property tax credits and exemptions, war bonuses, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, special vehicle license plates, parking privileges, state park admission benefits, as well as hunting and fishing license benefits. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.

New Hampshire Division of Veterans Services, Veterans Services Officers: The New Hampshire Division of Veterans Services has trained Veterans Services Officers who can assist Veterans and their Families find and apply for benefits under federal, state and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge. For questions and more information please call 603-624-9230 to schedule an appointment.
New Hampshire Veterans Services Officer Directory

Learn more about the New Hampshire Division of Veterans Services, Veterans Services Officers

New Hampshire State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility

Welcome Bienvenue New Hampshire

What are my New Hampshire State Tax Benefits?

New Hampshire Income Taxes:New Hampshire does not tax individual earned income. Distributions received from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) are not taxed.

Learn more about New Hampshire Income Taxes

New Hampshire Property Tax Credits and Exemptions for Veterans, their Spouse, or Surviving Spouse: New Hampshire offers several property tax credits for Veterans, their Spouse or Surviving Spouse. New Hampshire statutes authorizes a standard deduction and establishes an additional amount that may be adopted by local municipalities. Municipal tax collectors administer all property taxes, residents should contact their local tax collector for more information and to see which credits they are eligible for.
New Hampshire Tax Collector's Association
New Hampshire Tax Collector Directory

Veterans Organization Tax Exemption:Property owned and operated by national Veterans' organizations are exempt from taxes. New Hampshire Revised Statues (NH RS) 72:23-a

Standard and Optional War Time Veteran Tax Credit: Wartime Veterans, their Spouse or Surviving Spouse are offered a standard property tax credit of $50; cities and towns may vote to adopt a higher tax credit ranging from $51 to $750. NH RS 72:28

This property tax credit is available to:

  • Veterans who served 90 or more days in the U.S. Armed Forces, during a wartime period and received an honorable discharge, their Spouse or Surviving Spouse, or
  • Veteran who was discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces due to a service-connected disability, their Spouse or Surviving Spouse, or
  • Surviving Spouse of a Service member who was killed in the line of duty

Surviving Spouse of War Time Casualty Tax Credit: The Surviving Spouse of a Veteran who was killed in a designated combat zone while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces is offered a standard property tax credit of $700; cities and towns may vote to adopt a higher tax credit ranging from $701 to $2,000. NH RS 72:29-a

Tax Credit for Total and permanent Disabled Veterans: Disabled Veterans who have a service-connected, 100% total and permanent disability rating from the VA, or is a double amputee or paraplegic are eligible for a standard property tax credit of $700; cities and towns may vote to adopt a higher tax credit ranging from $701 to $4000. NH RS 72:35

Tax Exemption for Total and permanent Disabled Veterans who Receive Assistance from the VA: The home a disabled Veteran who received a discharge other than dishonorable that was acquired or modified with assistance from the VA is exempt from all property tax. Veterans must also meet one of the following requirements to be eligible:

  • Service-connected 100% total and permanent disability rating or declared individually unemployable, or
  • Service-connected blindness, or
  • Paraplegic or a double amputee due to service in the U.S. Armed Forces
  • Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran

NH RS 72:36-a

Learn more about New Hampshire Property Tax Credits and Exemptions for Veterans, their Spouse, or Surviving Spouse

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veterans Education Benefits?

New Hampshire National Guard Tuition Assistance: Service members serving in the New Hampshire National Guard may take courses tuition-free on a space available basis in state-supported postsecondary institutions. To be eligible Service members must meet the following soldier taking notesrequirements:

  • Active member of the New Hampshire National Guard and has completed advanced individual training or has commissioned as an officer
  • Enrolled in a state-supported postsecondary vocational school, technical school, college or university
  • Used all federal educational assistance, not including VA educational benefits, and National Guard scholarship grants

In addition, New Hampshire National Guard Service members may transfer their education benefits to their Spouse upon completion of their initial mandatory service obligation of at least six years. Spouses may use the transferred tuition waiver at a New Hampshire Community College or at a college or university in the University System of New Hampshire. Service members will incur a four year additional service obligation after the date the benefit is transferred.
NH RS 110-B.63-c

For questions and more information, please contact the New Hampshire Army National Guard Education Office at 603-225-1207.
New Hampshire National Guard Contact Information

Learn more about New Hampshire National Guard Tuition Assistance

Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Service Members Declared Missing-in-Action or Prisoners of War: The Child of a resident Service member who was serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and was declared missing in action or a prisoner of war after February 28, 1961, is entitled to free tuition at a New Hampshire Community College, or at a college or university in the University System of New Hampshire. The Child of the Service member is eligible for as long as the parent is listed as missing or captured.
NH RS 188-F:15
NH RS 187-A:20

Learn more about Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Service Members Declared Missing-in-Action or Prisoners of War

Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Disabled Veterans: The Children of resident disabled Veterans are eligible for free tuition at a school at a New Hampshire Community College, or at a college or university in the University System of New Hampshire.
Who is eligible for Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Disabled Veterans? For the Child to be eligible the Veteran parent must meet the following requirements:

  • Received an honorable discharge
  • New Hampshire resident
  • 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating from the VA
  • Entered the U.S. Armed Forces from New Hampshire, or was a resident when they received their disability rating

For the Child to be eligible they must meet the following requirements:

  • Biological, adopted or stepchild of an eligible Veteran
  • Eligibility ends at the end of the semester in which they reach age 27

NH RS 188-F:15
NH RS 187-A:20

Learn more about Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Disabled Veterans

Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Service Members Killed-in-Action or who Died from a Service-Connected Disability: The Children of resident Veterans who died during wartime service or died from a service-connected disability, that is a result of that wartime service, can receive a scholarship for up to $2,500 per year for four years. This scholarship may be used at a New Hampshire Community College, or at a college or university in the University System of New Hampshire.
Who is eligible for Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Service Members Killed-in-Action or who Died from a Service-Connected Disability? For the Child to be eligible the Veteran Parent must meet the following requirements:

  • Killed while serving on active duty during a recognized wartime period or from a disability that was a result of that service
  • New Hampshire resident at the time of their death, or when they received their disability rating

For the Child to be eligible they must be New Hampshire residents and be between the ages of 16 and 25. Students should contact the educational institution they plan to attend for more information.
NH RS 193:19, NH RS 193:20

Learn more about Free Tuition for Children of New Hampshire Resident Service Members Killed-in-Action or who Died from a Service-Connected Disability

New Hampshire 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:Children sitting on the steps of a school

  • 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 to achieve educational success for the student

MIC3 Assistance Request

Points of Contact:
Phone: 603-717-0121 / 603-422-9572

Learn more about New Hampshire Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

New Hampshire Purple Star School Program for Military-Friendly Schools: The New Hampshire 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 school will also have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military Families.
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program

Learn more about the New Hampshire Purple Star School Program for Military-Friendly Schools

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?

New Hampshire State Employee Leave for Military Service: New Hampshire state employeeswho are serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Soldier leaning over the top of a vehicleArmed Forces are eligible for 15 days military leave with pay per year. This leave can be used for military drill, training, or other temporary duty.

Service members who use all 15 days of military leave with pay are eligible for an additional 30 days with partial pay.
Who is eligible for New Hampshire State Employee Leave for Military Service? State employees who are serving in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves are eligible for military leave.

Learn more about New Hampshire State Employee Leave for Military Service

New Hampshire State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference: New Hampshire offers state employment hiring preferences to Veterans, disabled Veterans and their Spouse or unremarried Surviving Spouse, when hiring for:

  • State Liquor Commission Employees - Veterans who received an honorable discharge from active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces after serving at least 90 days NH RS 176:10
  • New Hampshire Veterans Home Commandant and Employees - Veterans who received an honorable discharge from service in the U.S. Armed Forces NH RS 119:6
  • State and Local Government Employees - Veterans who received an honorable discharge from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces after serving at least 90 days during a time of war; unremarried Surviving Spouses of wartime Veterans; Spouses of totally disabled, resident wartime Veterans NH RS 283:4 , RS 283.5

Learn more about New Hampshire State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference

New Hampshire Private Employer Veterans Hiring Preference: Privately owned companies in New Hampshire may establish a Veterans preference employment policy. Any preferential hiring policy must be in writing and must be applied uniformly regarding all hiring and promotions.

Learn more about New Hampshire Private Employer Veterans Hiring Preference

New Hampshire Veteran Reemployment to Previously Held Position in State Employment: State employees who enter active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces are placed in an inactive status and must be rehired to the same or similar position within 90 days of receiving a ARNG Training exercisedischarge other than dishonorable. NH RS 97:1

Learn more about New Hampshire Veteran Reemployment to Previously Held Position in State Employment

New Hampshire Veterans Peddler's License Fee Exemption: Veterans who have a service-connected disability and the unremarried Surviving Spouse of an eligible disabled Veteran are exempt from fees for a Peddler's License. NH RS 320:11

Learn more about the New Hampshire Veterans Peddler's License Fee Exemption

Priority of Service for Veterans and Eligible Spouses for New Hampshire Employment Security (NHES) Programs: Veterans and eligible Spouses are given priority of service at NHES MapDescription automatically generated locations for employment, training and placement services in all state workforce programs funded by the Department of Labor.

This means that those eligible receive access to that program or service either earlier than others who are not eligible, or if resources are limited, they receive access to the service or resource instead of, or before others.

Veterans and eligible Spouses are encouraged to identify themselves when inquiring about any New Hampshire Employment Security programs or services, or when visiting any of the NHES, New Hampshire Works One-Stop office locations.
Who is eligible for Priority of Service for Veterans and Eligible Spouses for NHES Programs?

Veterans: Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and who were released or discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. This includes reserve component Service members who serve on federal active duty (other than for training).

Spouses: To be eligible a Spouse must meet one of the following requirements:

  • Surviving Spouse of a Service member who died from a service-connected disability
  • Spouse of a Service member declared missing in action or a prisoner of war for 90 or more days
  • Spouse of a Service member who has a total and permanent service-connected disability rating from the VA
  • Surviving Spouse of a Veteran who had a service-connected disability

NHES, Veterans' Resource Directory

Learn more about Priority of Service for Veterans and Eligible Spouses for New Hampshire Employment Security Programs and 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 anindividual may be absent from work for militarytraining exercise 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 as long as 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?
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

New Hampshire Hilton Honors Military Program: The New Hampshire Hilton Honors Military Program helps make the career transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former Service members. The Hilton Honors Military Program will provide hotel accommodations for required travel while they are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities.
Who is eligible for New Hampshire Hilton Honors Military Program?
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

  • Resident of New Hampshire, and
  • Registered in the NHWORKS Job Match System, and
  • Veteran, or
  • Service member leaving the U.S. Armed Forces, or
  • Reserve component Service member, or
  • Spouse of a Veteran

Recipients must have a Hilton Honors account to receive the points. For more information, please email HiltonHonors@naswa.org, or contact the nearest American Job Center.
National Association of State Workforce Agencies, Hilton Honors Military Program Fact Sheet

Learn more about the New Hampshire Hilton Honors Military Program

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

New Hampshire Unemployment Insurance (UI): New Hampshire Employment Security(NHES) administers the UI program that provides temporary financial assistance for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement ofNH Workforce Connect lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income.

Applicants will need the following information to file a claim:

  • Social Security Number
  • Alien Registration number and expiration date (if not a U.S. citizen)
  • Name, address and phone number of all employers in the last 18 months
  • DD214 for former Service members discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces in the last 18 months
  • Bank account number and routing number for direct deposit payments

Applicants can file a claim online through the New Hampshire UI, Workforce Connect webpage.

For more information, please call the Unemployment Assistance Hotline at 603-271-7700.
NHES, Initial Claim Information

Learn more about New Hampshire Unemployment Insurance

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veteran Division of Motor Vehicles Benefits?

"Veteran" Indicator on New Hampshire Driver Licenses or ID Cards: New Hampshire Veteranswho received an honorable discharge can request a Veteran indicator on their New Hampshire Driver License, Commercial Driver License or Non-Driver ID. NH Drivers license with Veteran designation
NH RS 263:40

There is no cost to add the Veteran designation during regular renewal periods. Veterans who wish to add the indicator outside of their renewal period, must pay a $3 fee for a replacement license or ID card.
Who is eligible for "Veteran" Indicator on New Hampshire Driver Licenses and ID Cards? Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for a Veteran indicator.
NH RS 21:50

To apply Veterans are required to provide a completed New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card or New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, Commercial Driver License Application, and show official documentation (DD214, discharge documents, etc.) as proof of honorable service at any New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles locations.
New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles Hours and Locations

Learn more about "Veteran" Indicator on New Hampshire Driver Licenses and ID Cards

New Hampshire Disabled Veteran Driver License Fee Exemption: The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles does not charge fees for driver licenses for a Veteran who is an amputee or paraplegic and receive a specially adapted vehicle from the VA. This fee exemption also applies to Veterans who have a total and permanent, service-connected disability rating from the VA.
NH RS 263-42

Learn more about the New Hampshire Disabled Veteran Driver License Fee Exemption

New Hampshire Registration Fee Exemption for Eligible Veterans: The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles does not charge any vehicle registration fees for Veterans who meet one of the following requirements:

  • Service-connected total and permanent disability rating from the VA
  • Totally blind due to a service-connected cause
  • Amputee or paraplegic due to a service-connected cause and received funds from the federal government for a specially adapted vehicle
  • Honorably discharged former prisoner of war

NH RS 261:141, NH RS 261:159

Learn more about the New Hampshire Vehicle Registration Fee Exemption for Eligible Veterans

New Hampshire Military and Veteran License Plates: New Hampshire offers nine distinctive military and Veteran license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible Service members, Veterans, retired Service members and eligible Family members. Each license plate has specific eligibility and documentation requirements.

Samples of the Various New Hampshire license plates can be found on the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, License Plates Example page.

Military and Veteran license plates can be applied for using the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Vanity Plates. Applicants can apply at their nearest Division of Motor Vehicles office or Town/City Clerk's Office who process registrations, or by mail to:

NH Dept. of Safety
DMV - Registration Bureau
23 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305

Purple Heart License Plate: Veterans or Service members who are recipients of the Purple Heart areauthorized one free set of the New Hampshire Purple Heart license plates. Additional purple Heart License plates will incur regular fees.Purple Heart License Plate

Applicants are required to provide official documentation that they received the Purple Heart. Veterans are required to provide proof that they received an honorable discharge. This license plate can be transferred to an unremarried Surviving Spouse after the death of the Veteran.
NH RS 261:86(d)

Disabled Veteran License Plate: Honorably discharged Veterans who meet the following requirements are eligible for one New Hampshire Disabled Veteran license plate at no charge:

  • Service-connected total and permanent disability rating from the VA
  • Totally blind due to a service-connected cause
  • Amputee or paraplegic due to a service-connected cause and received funds from the federal government for a specially adapted vehicle

NH RS 261:86

Any motor vehicle that has the New Hampshire Disabled Veteran license plate with the international accessibility symbol is allowed free parking in any city or town, if the vehicle is under the direct control of the owner. NH RS 265:73

NH Veteran License Plate Veterans License Plate: Veterans who were honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the New Hampshire Veterans license plates. This license plate can be transferred to an unremarried Surviving Spouse after the death of the Veteran.
NH RS 261:87-b

Gold Star License Plate Gold Star License Plates: The mother or stepmother of a Service member killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the New Hampshire Gold Star license plate. There are no number plate fees, but regular registration fees will apply.
NH RS 261:87-c

Learn more about New Hampshire Military and Veteran License Plates

New Hampshire Veteran and Gold Star Family Decal License Plates: The New Hampshire Division of Veterans Services (NHDVS) offers military service related license plate decals that can be placed on the New Hampshire Veteran Decal license plates.

The NHDVS offers the following decals:

  • Branch of service
  • Medals for valor
    • Medal of Honor
    • Distinguished Service Cross
    • Navy Cross
    • Air Force Cross
    • Silver Star
    • Bronze Star
  • Medals for heroism
    • Distinguished Flying Cross
    • Army Soldier's Medal
    • Navy and Marine Corps Medal
    • Airman's Medal
    • Coast Guard Medal
  • Medals for distinguished service
    • Distinguished Service Medal
    • Defense Distinguished Service Medal
    • Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal
    • Distinguished Service Medal (U.S. Army)
    • Navy Distinguished Service Medal
    • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
    • Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal
    • Defense Superior Service Medal
    • Legion of Merit
  • Gold Star Family decal

NH RS 261-C:4

Who is eligible for the New Hampshire Veteran and Gold Star Family Decal License Plates?

Veteran Decal Eligibility: Veterans must have served four or more years in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge or continue to serve. Applicants are required to provide official documentation as proof of eligibility. See NH RS 21:50 for a list of acceptable documents.

Gold Star Family Decal Eligibility: The following Family members of a Service member who was killed while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the Gold Star Family decal:

  • Surviving Spouse
  • Grand parents
  • Parents, stepparents, adoptive parents
  • Child, stepchild, adopted Child
  • Sibling, half sibling, stepsibling

Applicants are required to provide a copy of the Service members DD1300, Report of Casualty as proof of eligibility.
NH RS 261-C:3-a

All decals except the Gold Star Family decal require a $10 fee, Gold Star Family decals are provided free of charge. Applicants must send a completed application, fee (if required), required documentation, and a self-addressed envelope to:

NHDVS c/o Service Decals
275 Chestnut Street Rm. 517
Manchester, NH 03101

For more information, please call 603-624-9230.
New Hampshire Veteran Multi-Use Decal Plate, Decal Order Form
New Hampshire Gold Star Family Multi-Use Decal Plate, Decal order Form
New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, Decal License Plates Information

Learn more about the New Hampshire Veteran and Gold Star Family Decal License Plates

New Hampshire Commercial Driver License (CDL) Skills Test Waiver: New Hampshire offers a CDL skills test waiver for resident Service members and former Service members based on their military training and experience.

Applicants must have been licensed in the past year on a military vehicle similar to the commercial vehicle class they are applying for. This option only allows a waiver of the skills testing and does not include any knowledge testing requirements.

Applicants must also meet the following requirements:

  • Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past two years
  • Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past two years
  • Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying offenses (listed on the application)
  • Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations (listed on the application)
  • Have not had had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) as a result of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault

Applicants must provide a completed Application for Military Skills Test Waiver (including certification by their commanding officer) and a copy of their Military Qualification Record and Military License at any New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles Office, or they can mail their application and required documents to:

New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles
23 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305

Learn more about the New Hampshire Commercial Driver License Skills Test Waiver

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?

National Guard Association of New Hampshire, State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered through the National Guard Association of New Hampshire to New Hampshire National Guard Service members is made up of several voluntary group life policies that are designed to help meet the needs of National Guard Service members and their Families.

Key Benefits of the SSLI:

  • Over $1,000,000 in coverage available through a combination of the SSLI plans
  • Service members are covered in combat and during deployments
  • Coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
  • Most claims paid in 24 to 48 hours
  • All military occupations covered
  • Coverage available for Spouse and Children
  • Service members can keep the coverage when they separate, and rates will not go up
  • Premiums may be payroll deducted

Who is eligible for National Guard Association of New Hampshire, SSLI? New Hampshire National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for SSLI. For more information please call 800-633-8333.

Learn more about National Guard Association of New Hampshire, 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

Compensation and Benefits for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members whoSustain Injury or Illness while on State ActiveDuty: New Hampshire National Guard Service members serving on state active duty, who are injured, or become ill are entitled to receive compensatwo soldiers talking tion and benefits under NH RS 281-A.
Who is eligible for Compensation and Benefits for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members who Sustain Injury or Illness while on State Active Duty?
New Hampshire National Guard Service members who suffer an injury or illness while on state active duty are eligible for compensation and benefits.

Learn more about Compensation and Benefits for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members who Sustain Injury or Illness while on State Active Duty

Compensation for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members Killed while on State Active Duty: The beneficiaries of a Service member serving in the New Hampshire National Guard who dies while serving on state active duty, are entitled to receive benefits under New Hampshire Workers' Compensation Laws.
Who is eligible for Compensation for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members Killed While on State Active Duty?
The beneficiaries of a New Hampshire National Guard Service member who was killed while serving on state active duty or because of state active duty are eligible for compensation.

Learn more about Compensation for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members Killed while on State Active Duty

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?

New Hampshire Free or Reduced Fee Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department offers free or reduced fee lifetime Fish and Fishing at the lake Game Licenses for eligible Veterans.
Who is eligible for the New Hampshire Free or Reduced Fee Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans? Honorably discharged resident Veterans who have a service-connected, total and permanent disability rating from the VA are eligible free lifetime licenses. A $10 administrative fee is charged once, when applying.

Veterans who have at least an 80% but not 100% disability rating from the VA for at least two years may purchase a lifetime license for half price. A $10 administrative fee is charged once, when applying.
NH RS 214:13

Veterans can apply by submitting the appropriate application, any required documentation (listed on the application) and required fees to:

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
11 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03301

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Application for New Hampshire Disabled Veteran Resident Lifetime License at Half Price (80% to 99% Disability Rating Only)
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Application for New Hampshire Disabled Veteran License (100% Disability Rating Only)
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Lifetime License Fees
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Lifetime License Information

Learn more about The New Hampshire Free or Reduced Fee Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Benefits for Active Duty Service Members: New Hampshire resident Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who are stationed outside New Hampshire can apply for a free special license to hunt and fish while they are home on leave.

Service members can apply by submitting a completed application to:

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
11 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03301

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Application for Temporary License, Active Duty Armed Forces and Coast Guard

In addition, nonresident Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who are permanently stationed in New Hampshire, may purchase hunting, fishing, or combination licenses, for resident prices.

Learn more about New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Benefits for Active Duty Service Members

Free Admission to New Hampshire State Parks for New Hampshire Service Members andDisabled Veterans: New Hampshire Veterans withCliff overlooking a valley any level of service-connected disability from the VA are not charged a fee for day-use admission to New Hampshire state parks. Any additional fees for the use of ski lifts, food service, campgrounds, etc. still apply.

To be eligible Veterans must have either New Hampshire Disabled Veteran license plates or a letter from the VA certifying they have a service-connected disability.

Service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as Service members retired from the New Hampshire National Guard, in pay grades E-1 through E-6, are authorized free admission to New Hampshire state parks. NH RS 216-A:3-g

Learn more about Free Admission to New Hampshire State Parks for New Hampshire National Guard Service Members and Disabled Veterans

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What are my New Hampshire Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?

Free Copies of New Hampshire Public Records for Veterans: Copies of New Hampshire public records are provided free of charge to Veterans and their dependents when required to determine eligibility for VA benefits. NH RS 110-B:86

Learn more about Free Copies of New Hampshire Public Records for Veterans

New Hampshire Vietnam War Bonus: New Hampshire offers a bonus of $100 to Service members who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for 90 days or more between August 5, 1964, through August 15, 1973, or those who served in Vietnam between July 1, 1958, through August 5, 1964, and earned the Vietnam Service Medal or the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. To be eligible the Veteran must have been a resident of New Hampshire at the time of enlistment and received an honorable discharge. Claims made after August 22, 1977, must be approved by the Adjutant General, the Governor and Executive Council. For more information, please call 603-624-9230 or 800-622-9230. NH RS 115-A:3

Learn more about the New Hampshire Vietnam War Bonus

New Hampshire Persian Gulf War Service Bonus: New Hampshire offers a bonus of $100 to Service members who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces between August 2, 1990, through November 30, 1995, and earned the Southwest Asia Service Medal. To be eligible the Veteran must have been a resident of New Hampshire at the time of enlistment and received an honorable discharge. This program expired on August 31, 2002, but there are provisions that allow for acceptance of applications after that date. Veterans who received a similar Persian Gulf bonus from another state are not eligible.

Veterans must submit a completed application and a copy of their DD214 to:

New Hampshire Office of Veterans Services
275 Chestnut Street, Room 517
Manchester, NH 03101-2411
Fax: 603-624-9236

For more information, please call 603-624-9230 or 800-622-9230.
NH RS 115-A:9
New Hampshire Persian Gulf War Service Bonus Application

Learn more about the New Hampshire Persian Gulf War Service Bonus

New Hampshire Global War on Terrorism Operations Service Bonus: New Hampshire offers a bonus of $100 to Service members who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces on or after September 11, 2001, and a date to be determined by the Secretary of Defense, and earned the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal, or the Afghanistan Campaign Medal. To be eligible the Veteran must have been a resident of New Hampshire at the time of enlistment and received an honorable discharge or is still serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Veterans must submit a completed application and a copy of their DD214 (Member Copy #4), to:

New Hampshire Office of Veterans Services
275 Chestnut Street, Room 517
Manchester, NH 03101-2411
Fax: 603-624-9236

For more information, please call 603-624-9230 or 800-622-9230.
NH RS 115-A:16
New Hampshire Global War on Terrorism Operations Bonus Application

Learn more about New Hampshire Global War on Terrorism Operations Service Bonus

New Hampshire Veteran's and Dependent Families Relief: Honorably discharged Veterans who served during wartime and their Families who have become unable to support themselves are eligible to receive assistance from the town or city where they live.

For more information, please contact the nearest Veterans Services Officer or call 603-624-9230 to schedule an appointment.
New Hampshire Veterans Services Officer Directory
NH RS 165:5

Learn more about New Hampshire Veteran's and Dependent Families Relief

New Hampshire Veterans Home (NHVH): The NHVH located in Tilton, New Hampshire is a 250 bed intermediate and long-term care facility that cares for eligible New Hampshire Veterans. The NHVH also offers hospice and palliative care.New Hampshire Veterans Home

Some of the services offered include:

  • Nursing care
  • Physical therapy
  • Dietary services
  • Social work services
  • Spiritual care
  • Recreational activities

NH RS 119:1
Who is eligible for care at the NHVH? To be eligible for admission Veterans must meet the following requirements:

  • Honorably discharged from an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, there is no requirement for service in combat or to have a service-connected disability
  • Resident of the New Hampshire for at least one year prior to the date of application, or had New Hampshire listed as their "home of record" on discharge documents
  • No minimum age requirement
  • NHVH must be able to meet the Veteran’s care needs
  • Veteran must not have the potential to harm themselves or others

A Veteran's assets are used to determine their financial contribution to room and board. There is a one-year financial look-back period. A house is not counted as an asset if occupied by the applicant's Spouse, partner or dependent.

To apply for admission, applicants can contact the Admission Coordinators' office at 603-527-4400 or send completed applications to:

New Hampshire Veterans Home
Admission Coordinator
139 Winter Street
Tilton, NH 03276

NHVH Application Packet
NHVH Resident Handbook
NHVH Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about the New Hampshire Veterans Home

New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery (NHSVC): The NHSVC, located in Boscawen, NewHampshire, offers a dignified final resting place for eligible Veterans and their Family members.New Hampshire state veterans cemetery

The cemetery offers three types of burials:

  • Placement of cremated remains in a columbarium niche
  • In-ground burial of cremated remains
  • Full casket burials

Please see the NHSVC Fee Table for a list of burial fees.
Who is eligible for Burial at the NHSVC?
Eligibility requirements for the burial at the NHSVC 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 qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except 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)
  • New Hampshire residency is not required for burial at the NHSVC

All Veterans are encouraged to complete the NHSVC, Eligibility Application to establish eligibility prior to need.

New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery

110 Daniel Webster Highway
Boscawen, NH 03303-2413
Phone: 603-796-2026
Fax: 603-796-6300
Email: info@nhsvc.com

Learn more about the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery

Free Burial for Indigent New Hampshire Veterans: Resident, honorably discharged, needy Veterans may be buried at the expense of the municipality where the Veteran died. Veterans must have served during a wartime period for at least 90 days or was discharged after less than 90 days due to a service-connected disability to be eligible.

For more information, please contact the nearest Veterans Services Officer, or call 603-624-9230.
New Hampshire Veterans Services Officer Directory
NH RS 165:16, NH RS 165:17

Learn more about Free Burial for Indigent New Hampshire Veterans

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in New Hampshire

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in New Hampshire: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and Family members. Please see the local location listing for the nearest facility.

Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in New Hampshire

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in New Hampshire: The VA National Cemetery Administration does not maintain a national cemetery in New Hampshire. There is, however, a New Hampshire State Cemetery in Boscawen. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.

Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in New Hampshire

New Hampshire Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services
1 Minuteman Way
Concord, NH 03301
Phone: 603-225-1200
TDD Access: Relay NH 800-735-2964

Learn more about the New Hampshire Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services

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Military Installations in New Hampshire

Please see the New Hampshire Military Resource Locator for additional information

Active Duty

Navy
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

National Guard
New Hampshire Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services
New Hampshire National Guard

New Hampshire Army National Guard

New Hampshire Air National Guard
157 th Air Refueling Wing

U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
99 th Readiness Division

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Resources

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory New Hampshire

New Hampshire Revised Statutes

New Hampshire State Government

General Court of New Hampshire

Army National Guard Benefits

Air National Guard Benefits

New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, License Plate Types

U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference

New Hampshire Employment Security, Veterans' Resource Guide

Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission, New Hampshire

North Country Veterans Committee, Veteran's Resource Guide

New Hampshire State Benefits Fact Sheet

New Hampshire Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services, State Benefits For Veterans Webpage

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory

Military State Tax Guide

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Document Review Date: 28 June 2024