State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Benefits
Health and Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in New Mexico
New Mexico Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of New Mexico Military and Veterans Benefits: New Mexico offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including property tax exemptions, New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
New Mexico Veterans Service Officers: The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services, Field Services Division has trained Veterans Service Officers who can assist, Veterans and their families find and apply for Veterans benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services, Veteran Service Officer Directory
Learn more about New Mexico Veterans Service Officers
New Mexico State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
New Mexico Military Retired Pay Income Taxes:New Mexico offers a partial tax exemption of military retired pay up to the following amounts:
- 2023 Tax Year -$20,000
- 2024 through 2026 Tax Year -$30,000
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R and early distributions may incur higher taxes.
Learn more about New Mexico Military Retired Pay Income Taxes
New Mexico Income Taxes on Military Pay: Military pay received by a resident service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces is exempt from New Mexico personal income tax.
Learn more about New Mexico Income Taxes on Military Pay
New Mexico Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: Nonresident military Spouses do not have to pay income tax in New Mexico for wages earned while they are stationed in New Mexico.
Who is eligible for a New Mexico Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses? To be eligible nonresident military Spouses must meet the following requirements:
- Service member is a resident of another state
- Service member is in New Mexico in compliance with military orders
- Service member’s spouse is in New Mexico only to be with the service member
- Service member’s Spouse is a resident of another state
Learn more about New Mexico Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses
New Mexico State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 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 either 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 their limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program
See IRS Publication 525 for more information.
New Mexico 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 service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
New Mexico Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: New Mexico taxes military survivor annuities. The only exemptions offered are for medical expenses, age, or for low and mid-income that are offered to all residents.
New Mexico Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Veterans may qualify for a $4,000 reduction in the taxable value of their real property for county taxation purposes.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Property Tax Exemption? Resident Veterans who received an honorable discharge after at least 90 days continuous active duty service (other than for training) in the U.S. Armed Forces, or served less than 90 days and was discharged due to a service-connected disability are eligible. This exemption is also available to the unremarried surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran.
Those who are eligible for a Veteran property tax exemption and do not have sufficient real or personal property to claim the full property tax exemption may be eligible to pay motor vehicle registration fees at two-thirds the rates charged on vehicles the Veteran owns.
New Mexico Statutes 66-6-7
Applicants must submit a completed application and any required documentation (listed on the application) by email to vet.benefits@state.nm.us, by mail or in person to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 134
Santa Fe, NM 87501-2641
Phone: 866-433-8387
New Mexico Statutes 7-37-5
New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services, Application for Veterans Tax Exemption and Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
Learn more about the New Mexico Veterans Property Tax Exemption
New Mexico Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption: Resident disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA, qualify for a complete property tax exemption on their primary residence.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption? Resident disabled Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating and received an honorable discharge are eligible. This exemption is also available to the unremarried surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran.
Those who are eligible for a disabled Veteran property tax exemption are also exempt from the imposition of any special benefit assessments on their property
New Mexico Statutes 7-37-5.4
Applicants must submit a completed application and any required documentation (listed on the application) by email to vet.benefits@state.nm.us , by mail or in person to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 134
Santa Fe, NM 87501-2641
Phone: 866-433-8387
New Mexico Statutes 7-37-5.1
New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services, Application for Veterans Tax Exemption and Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
Learn more about the New Mexico Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
New Mexico Disabled Veterans Exemption from Vehicle Registration Fees and Excise Taxes: Certain disabled Veterans are eligible for an exemption from registration fees and excise taxes for one vehicle.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Disabled Veterans Exemption from Vehicle Registration Fees? Honorably discharged resident Veterans who have lost or lost the use of one or both arms (at or above the wrist) or one or both legs (at or above the ankle) from a service-connected cause are eligible for an exemption of motor vehicle registration fees and excise taxes for one vehicle.
New Mexico Statutes 66-6-16
Learn more about the New Mexico Disabled Veterans Exemption from Vehicle Registration Fees
New Mexico Veterans' Service Organization Property Tax Exemption: The property owned by a Veterans' Service Organization chartered by the U.S. Congress, that is primarily used for the benefit of Veterans and their families, is exempt from property taxes.
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services, Application for Veteran Service Organization Tax Exemptions
Learn more about the New Mexico Veterans Property Tax Exemption for Veteran Service Organizations
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program: The New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program, more commonly known as State Tuition Assistance (STA), provides tuition assistance for service members serving in the New Mexico National Guard who are pursuing their first bachelor’s degree or below. Tuition assistance can be used at state supported institutions of higher learning for up to $4,000 annually not to exceed the actual cost of tuition. STA will pay the remainder of tuition expenses after all federal tuition assistance, the G.I Bill and the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship are utilized. Funding may be used for full or part-time studies.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program? To be eligible for STA service members must meet the following requirements:
- Completed basic training, or participating in the Simultaneous Membership Program
- Currently in serving in good standing:
- No Suspension of favorable actions
- Nine or more unexcused absences in a 12 month period
- Completes entire period of annual training
- No Uniform Code of Military Justice actions
- Was not administratively reduced in rank for unfavorable actions within the past year
- Passed most recent Army Combat Fitness Test and meets height and weight standards
To continue to be eligible for STA service members must maintain a 2.0 GPA. Hard copy applications are no longer accepted, service members should contact their education office for application instructions.
New Mexico Army National Guard Education Office
Address: 10 Bataan Boulevard
Santa Fe, NM 87508
Phone: 505-407-3405
Email: ng.nm.nmarng.list.education@army.mil
New Mexico National Guard STA Flyer
New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program, Information, Request Form, Statement Of Understanding, and Regulation
New Mexico Public Higher Education Institutions Directory
Learn more about the New Mexico National Guard Tuition Scholarship Program
New Mexico Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship: The Vietnam Veterans’ Scholarship is offered to eligible New Mexico resident Veterans who served in Vietnam. This scholarship provides tuition, fees, and a book allowance for resident undergraduate, and master’s degree 
programs at state funded schools. Scholarship is for one academic year and may be renewed if the student maintains satisfactory progress.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship? Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- New Mexico resident at time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, or has lived in New Mexico for 10 years or more
- Was awarded the Vietnam Campaign Medal or Service Medal for service in Vietnam between August 5, 1964, until the official end of the Vietnam conflict
- Received an honorable discharge
Veterans must submit a New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services, Application for Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship along with proof of residency and a certified copy of their DD214 to the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services to certify their eligibility. Applications and required documentation may be mailed or hand delivered to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 134
Santa Fe, NM 87501
For more information, please call 866-433-8387, or email vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov.
New Mexico Higher Education Department, Wartime and Vietnam Veterans’ Scholarship Fact Sheet
New Mexico Public Higher Education Institutions Directory
Learn more about the New Mexico Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship
New Mexico Wartime Veterans’ Scholarship: The New Mexico Wartime Veterans’ Scholarship is offered to eligible New Mexico resident Veterans who served during wartime. This scholarship provides tuition, fees, and a book allowance for resident undergraduate, and master’s degree programs at state funded schools. Each scholarship is for one academic year and may be renewed if the student maintains satisfactory progress.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Wartime Veterans’ Scholarship?
Eligibility requirements:
- New Mexico resident at time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, or has lived in New Mexico for 10 years or more
- Was awarded the:
- Southwest Asia Service Medal
- Global War on Terror Service Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal, or
- Any other medal issued for service in the U.S. Armed Forces during a military campaign or armed conflict, as defined by congress or by executive order
- Received an honorable discharge
Veterans must submit a New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services, Application for Wartime Veterans’ Scholarship along with proof of residency and a certified copy of their DD214 to the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services to certify their eligibility.
Applications and required documentation may be mailed or hand delivered to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 134
Santa Fe, NM 87501
For more information, please call 866-433-8387, or email vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov.
New Mexico Higher Education Department, Wartime and Vietnam Veterans Scholarship Fact Sheet
New Mexico Public Higher Education Institutions Directory
Learn more about the New Mexico Wartime Veteran Scholarship
New Mexico In-State Tuition for Veterans, Spouses and Dependents: Veterans, their spouse and children, who use VA education
benefits are authorized “in-state” tuition rates at any state funded college, university, vocational school or vocational training program.
New Mexico Public Higher Education Institutions Directory
Learn more about New Mexico In-State Tuition for Veterans, Spouses and Dependents
New Mexico In-State Tuition for Nonresident Active Duty Service Members and Dependents When Stationed in New Mexico: Nonresident active duty service members and their dependents who are permanently stationed in New Mexico are eligible for in-state tuition rates.
If the service member is reassigned outside of New Mexico, their dependents remain eligible for in-state tuition rates as long as they remain continuously enrolled and in good standing with their educational institution.
New Mexico In-State Tuition for Nonresident Dependents of a Service Member Killed on Active Duty: TheNonresident dependents of a nonresident active duty service member who was killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for in-state tuition rates at New Mexico institutions of higher learning. The dependents must move to New Mexico within 60 days of the death to be eligible.
New Mexico In-State Tuition Rates for Active Duty Dependents Whose Sponsor Resides or is Stationed Outside of New Mexico: The dependents of active duty or National Guard service members serving on federal active duty are authorized in-state tuition rates even though their sponsor is not stationed in New Mexico.
Dependents do not have to be using a federal educational benefit; however, they must demonstrate intent to establish New Mexico residency. The following actions demonstrate intent to establish residency:
- Transfer driver’s license to New Mexico
- Register any vehicle titled in the dependents name in New Mexico
- Register to vote in New Mexico
Students are required to provide proof of intent to establish residency and a Defense Eligibility Enrollment System (DEERs) DD1172-2 .
New Mexico In-State Tuition Rates for National Guard Service Members and Dependents: All National Guard service members, their spouse and children are authorized in-state tuition rates at state funded colleges, universities, vocational schools, or vocational training programs.
New Mexico Public Higher Education Institutions Directory
Learn more about New Mexico In-State Tuition Rates for National Guard Service Members and Dependents
New Mexico Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship: New Mexico offers a full tuition waiver for the children of service members who were killed during a period of armed conflict. Students will also receive a $300 stipend per year to help with other expenses.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship? The child must be between the ages of 16 and 26 and enrolled in a state supported school. The Veteran must have been a resident of New Mexico at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces and was killed in action or as a result of that action, during a period of armed conflict. Children of New Mexico National Guard service members killed while serving on state active duty are also eligible. Applications, a copy of the service member’s discharge documents and death certificate must be mailed to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 134
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Attn: State Benefits
Learn more about the New Mexico Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship
New Mexico Lottery Scholarship Eligibility Extension for Service Members: New Mexico resident service members who enter the U.S. Armed Forces within four months of graduating from a New Mexico high school may establish eligibility for the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship for up to 16 months after their discharge. Students must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible.
Learn more about the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship Eligibility Extension for Service Members
New Mexico High School Diplomas for World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans: Veterans who left a New Mexico high school before graduating to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II or Korea may be awarded a high school diploma issued from the high school they were attending.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico High School Diplomas for World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans ? To be eligible Veterans must have served during World War II or the Korean Conflict and received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces.
Applications and a copy of the Veterans discharge documents/DD214 must be mailed to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 134
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Attn: State Benefits
High School Diploma Application for New Mexico Veterans of World War II and Korea
Learn more about the New Mexico High School Diplomas for World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans
New Mexico 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: 575-551-2287 / 505-846-6477
Learn more about the New Mexico Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
New Mexico Purple Star Public School Program for Military-Friendly Schools: Legislation passed into law in 2021 authorized the New Mexico Purple Star Public School program for military-friendly schools. The Purple Star Public School program recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.
For a school to become a Purple Star Designate 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. The first New Mexico Public Schools to receive the designation are in the Alamogordo Public School District.
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program
Learn more about the New Mexico Purple Star Public School Program for Military-Friendly Schools
Military Children School Enrollment Priority: The children of service members who are assigned to a military installation in New Mexico are given priority enrollment status when registering in a New Mexico school system.
Learn more about Military Children School Enrollment Priority
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Paid Leave for New Mexico State Employees for Military Training: All state, county, municipal, school district and other public employees 
who are service members serving in the National Guard or the U.S Armed Forces Reserves are authorized 15 days of paid military leave, per federal fiscal year when ordered to duty for training. Military leave is in addition to any other leave or vacation time.
The governor is authorized to grant up to an additional 15 days of military leave when that training will benefit the state, by enabling that employee to better perform the duties required in their state occupation.
Learn more about Paid Leave for New Mexico State Employees for Military Training
New Mexico State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference: New Mexico offers a hiring preference to National Guard service members, Veterans, and disabled Veterans when they apply for public employment.
All honorably discharged Veterans or anyone currently serving in the National Guard will have 5 points added to their final passing numerical scores on screening examinations. Honorably discharged Veterans with a service-connected disability will have 10 points added to their final passing numerical score.
For more information regarding eligibility, please contact New Mexico State Personnel Office.
New Mexico Statutes 10-9-13.2 and 20-4-9
Learn more about New Mexico State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, Veterans' Employment Representatives: New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions offers job and training services to Veterans on a priority basis. Veterans have priority over non-Veterans 
regarding job placement, counseling, testing, referral to supportive services, job development, and job training. Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVER) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists provide these services to Veterans in New Mexico.
LVERs primary duties are conducting outreach to employers, facilitating job search workshops, and providing employment and training services to Veterans.
DVOPs focus on providing intensive services with priority to disabled Veterans and other Veterans with significant barriers to employment. For more assistance, please contact the nearest New Mexico Workforce Connection Center.
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, Workforce Connection Centers Directory
Learn more about New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, Veterans' Employment Representatives
New Mexico Operation Sound Stage: Operation Soundstage is a partnership between the New Mexico Film Office, Department of Veterans’ Services, and Department of Workforce Solutions with the goal of increasing the hiring and training of Veterans for jobs with movie studios and television production companies in New Mexico.
Learn more about New Mexico Operation Sound Stage
Federal Employment Veteran’s Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty inthe 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 Veterans’ 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 lastin
g 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.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
New Mexico Hilton Honors Military Program: The New Mexico 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 provides hotel accommodations for required travel while service members are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to a total of 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities. 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.
Learn more about the New Mexico Hilton Honors Military Program
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
New Mexico Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI 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. Employers pay all costs of the UI program.
Applicants can file a claim online at the New Mexico Workforce Connection Online System (new users will be required to create an account), or by calling 877-NM-4-MYUI (877-664-6984). The UI Operations Center is open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Applicants will need the following information to file a new claim:
- Social Security Number
- Mailing address and phone number(s) of employer(s) for the last 18 months
- Starting and ending dates of last job (or jobs if more than one employer in last 18 months)
- Alien Registration Number and expiration date for non-U.S. citizens
- Gross earnings for last week worked prior to filing their initial claim
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, UI Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about New Mexico Unemployment Insurance
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Benefits?
Veteran Designation on New Mexico Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Veterans can have a “Veteran” designation on their New Mexico driver’s license or ID card. The designation is provided free of charge for a first-time request or at renewal. Veterans 
are required to show their DD214 or Veteran’s Card at a New Mexico Motor Vehicle Motor Vehicle Division Office to apply.
Learn more about the Veteran Designation on New Mexico Driver's Licenses and ID Cards
New Mexico Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates: New Mexico offers 12 license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members and family members. All military and Veteran license plates may be used on passenger vehicles and light trucks under 26,000 lbs. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply.
All license plates may be requested using the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, Application for Military Service Special Plate (except the Gold Star Family license plate, see below). Applicants must submit completed applications, their DD214, any other required documentation proving eligibility and required fees to:
Motor Vehicle Division
Vehicle Services Bureau
PO Box 1028
Santa Fe, NM 87504-1028
New Mexico Armed Forces Veteran Vehicle and Motorcycle License Plate: New Mexico offers the New Mexico Armed Forces
Veteran license plates to honorably discharged Veterans and retired reserve component service members. Veterans may also choose to add 1 of 26 different Veteran-Designation decals across the top of the license plate. This license plate is also available for motorcycles. Veterans are required to submit a copy of their DD214 and discharge certificate when they apply.
New Mexico Medal of Honor License Plates: Medal of Honor recipients are eligible for free New Mexico Medal of Honor license plates for up to two vehicles. Veterans are required to submit a copy of their DD214, discharge certificate and other official documentation as proof they received the Medal of Honor.
New Mexico Purple Heart License Plates: Purple Heart recipients are eligible for free New Mexico Purple Heart license plates for up to two vehicles. Veterans are required to submit a copy of their DD214, discharge certificate and other official documentation as proof were awarded the Purple Heart when they apply.
New Mexico Disabled Veteran License Plates: Disabled Veterans who have a 50% or more service-connected disability rating are eligible for free New Mexico Disabled Veteran license plates for up to two vehicles. This license plate is also available for motorcycles. Veterans are required to submit a copy of their DD214, discharge certificate and official documentation from the VA, or their branch of service as proof of their disability percentage.
A disabled Veteran who qualifies for the New Mexico Disabled Person license plates may choose to have the disability wheelchair symbol displayed on their disabled Veteran license plate.
New Mexico Gold Star Family License Plate: The New Mexico Gold Star Family license plate is available to the immediate family Members of a service member who was killed in armed conflict while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who is eligible for the New Mexico Gold Star Family License Plate? Eligible family members includes:
- Surviving spouse
- Parent
- Child
- Sibling
The first set of license plates are free for an eligible surviving spouse or parents. A surviving spouse or parent can apply for three additional license plates and are only required to pay regular registration fees. Applicants must submit a copy of the service member’s DD1300 Report of Casualty, or DD3 Application for Gold Star Lapel Button. A surviving spouse must also provide a copy of their marriage license.
New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, Motor Vehicle Division, Application for Gold Star Family Plate
Learn more about New Mexico Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates
New Mexico Heroes to Highways Program , Commercial Driver License (CDL) Testing Waivers: The New Mexico Heroes to Highways Program offers CDL testing waiver to service members and former service members (within 1 year of separation) based on their military training and experience.
The Even Exchange option allows service members who have certain Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the U.S. Armed Forces to have their CDL knowledge and skills testing waived. To be eligible service members must have worked in one of the following Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the past year:
- Army – 88M, 92F, 14T
- Air Force – 2T1, 2F0, 3E2
- Marine Corps – 3531
- Navy – EO
Even Exchange applicants must also meet the following requirements:
- Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past year
- Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past year
- Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying offenses in the past year (listed on the application)
- Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations in the past year (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.
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, Application for Military CDL Even Exchange
The Military Skills Test Waiver option is available to service members who have military commercial driving training and experience but do not have the Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings for the Even Exchange option. Applicants must have been licensed for at least two years 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 the knowledge testing requirement.
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, Application for Military Skills Test Waiver
Skills Test Waiver 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 in the past two years (listed on the application)
- Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations in the past two years (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.
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, Application for Military Skills Test Waiver
Applicants must submit a completed application, including certification by their commanding officer, and any required documentation (listed on the application) to:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, Commercial Driver License Unit
2546 Camino Entrada
Santa Fe, NM 87507
Fax: 505-476-1578
E-mail: NMCDL.HelpDesk@state.nm.us
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
New Mexico National Guard Compensation for Injury, Illness and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty: New MexicoNational Guard service members serving under military orders who are injured, become ill, become disabled, or die in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under the New Mexico Workers’ Compensation Act.
Who is eligible for New Mexico National Guard Medical Compensation for Injury, Illness and Death Incurred while on State Active Duty? New Mexico National Guard service members serving under military orders and while traveling to or from their place of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under the New Mexico Workers’ Compensation Act.
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 New Mexico Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
New Mexico Recreational Benefits for Disabled Veterans: New Mexico offersthe following recreational benefits for eligible disabled Veterans:
- Free Annual New Mexico State Park Day-Use Pass - offering unlimited entry into state parks or recreation areas
- New Mexico Museum and Monument Pass – offering unlimited access to New Mexico museums and monuments
- Three free one-day camping passes for New Mexico State Parks
Who is eligible for New Mexico State Park Day-Pass and Museum and Monument Pass? To be eligible Veterans must be New Mexico residents, received an honorable discharge from service in the U.S. Armed Forces, and have a 50% or more service-
connected disability rating from the VA.
To apply Veterans will be required to provide a completed application, a copy of their DD214 (or equivalent), proof of New Mexico residency, and a copy of their VA Benefit Summary Letter by mail or in person to:
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street Rm #134
Santa Fe, NM 87501-2641
For more information, please call 866-433-8387.
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services, Application for Disabled Veteran Free State Parks, Museums and Monuments Pass
Learn more about New Mexico Recreational Benefits for Disabled Veterans
New Mexico Veterans Day Recreation Benefits for Service Members, Veterans and their Families: Every Veterans Day New Mexico resident active duty service members, honorably discharged Veterans and their families are authorized the following benefits:
- Free use of any New Mexico State Park
- Admission fee waiver for New Mexico State Park campsites
- Free entry to:
Free New Mexico Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Card for 100% Disabled Veterans: New Mexico offers a free lifetime fishing, small
game hunting, and deer hunting card to eligible disabled Veterans.
Deer hunting licenses will only be issued if the Veteran has received a public-land deer draw or if they receive written permission from a landowner for a private-land deer hunt. The deer hunting license must be applied for each license year, and no preference is given for public-land deer draws. Stamps are required for any privilege not covered by the Disabled Veteran card.
Who is eligible for Free New Mexico Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Card for 100% Disabled Veterans? Veterans must be New Mexico residents and have a 100% service-connected disability rating from VA to be eligible.
To apply Veterans must submit a completed New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF), Lifetime Resident Disabled Veteran Card Application, a copy of their DD214 and VA Benefit Summary Letter by email to vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov, or by mail to:
State Benefits Division
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
407 Galisteo Street, Rm 142
Santa Fe, NM 87504
NMDGF, U.S. Military and Veteran Opportunities Fact Sheet
Learn more about the Free New Mexico Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Card for 100% Disabled Veterans
New Mexico Resident Disabled Veteran Combination Game Hunting and Fishing License: New Mexico resident disabled Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating from the VA of less than 100% are eligible for a $10 game hunting and fishing license.
Veterans can purchase a reduced fee licenses through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDFG), Online Licensing System, by phone at 888-248-6866, or in person at a NMDGF, Fishing License Vendor or NMDGF, Hunting License Vendor. Veterans are required to show their VA award letter.
NMDGF, U.S. Military and Veteran Opportunities Fact Sheet
New Mexico Reduced Fee Licenses for Resident Service Members and Veterans: The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) offers a 50% discount on all licenses, permits and stamps for New Mexico resident service members who are serving 
in the U.S. Armed Forces, and Veterans who received an honorable discharge. This discount does not apply to application fees, license vendor fees, administrative fees, duplicate license fees, the federal duck stamp, or the resident disabled Veteran combination game hunting and fishing license.
Who is eligible for New Mexico Reduced Fee Licenses for Service Members and Veterans? Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Active duty service members must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for a minimum of 90 days and are still serving
- Reserve component service members must have served a minimum of six continuous years and continue to serve
- Veteran who served at least 90 days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or a minimum of six years in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
Applicants are required to show proof of active duty status, or proof that they received an honorable discharge. Licenses are available from the NMDGF, Online Licensing System, by phone at 888-248-6866 or in person at a NMDGF, Fishing License Vendor or NMDGF, Hunting License Vendor.
NMDGF, U.S. Military and Veteran Opportunities Fact Sheet
Learn more about New Mexico Reduced Fee Licenses for Service Members and Veterans
New Mexico Resident Veterans Oryx Hunts: The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) has established a once-in-a-lifetime oryx hunt available only to New Mexico resident Veterans.
New Mexico resident fees apply. Each year, Veterans must submit a copy of their DD214 prior to application. Copies may be submitted to:
NMDGF Special Hunts
1 Wildlife Way
Santa Fe, NM 87507
Email:specialhunts@state.nm.us
Fax:505-476-8180
NMDGF, U.S. Military and Veteran Opportunities Fact Sheet
Learn more about the New Mexico Resident Veterans Oryx Hunts
New Mexico Resident License Pricing Available for Certain Fort Bliss Hunting Opportunities: Active duty service members stationed at Fort Bliss are eligible for resident pricing on draw hunt licenses for hunts that occur on portions of Fort Bliss that are in New Mexico. Each year applicants must submit proof of assignment to Fort Bliss prior to application. Proof may be submitted to:
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Special Hunts
1 Wildlife Way
Santa Fe, NM 87507
Email:specialhunts@state.nm.us
Fax:505-476-8180
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, U.S. Military and Veteran Opportunities Fact Sheet
New Mexico Hunting Licenses at Resident Prices for Nonresident Disabled Service Members and Veterans in Rehabilitation Programs: Nonresident active duty service members or Veterans who are undergoing a rehabilitation program that involves hunting are eligible for resident prices on deer, elk, antelope, javelina, oryx and turkey licenses.
The rehabilitation program must be sponsored by the federal government, or a recognized non-profit organization and must be under the direction of a military or VA rehabilitation center. This benefit is not available through the public draw. Proof of eligibility must be provided. This benefit is available only through the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF), Santa Fe Office:
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
1 Wildlife Way
Santa Fe, NM 87507
Phone: 505-476-8000 or 888-248-6866
Email: ispa@state.nm.us
NMDGF, U.S. Military and Veteran Opportunities Fact Sheet
Free New Mexico Fishing Licenses for Disabled Service Members and Veterans in Rehabilitation Programs: Active duty service members or Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who are undergoing a rehabilitation program that involves learning and practicing fishing skills are eligible for free New Mexico fishing licenses. The rehabilitation program must be sponsored by the federal government, or a recognized non-profit organization and it must be under the direction of a military or VA rehabilitation center. The Habitat Management and Access Validation and the Habitat Stamp are not required. All other laws and rules must be followed. For more information, please call the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Special Permits Office at 505-476-8064.
What are my New Mexico Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
New Mexico Homeless and At-Risk Veteran Services: Through contracts with the New Mexico Veterans Integration Center in Albuquerque and the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope in Las Cruces, the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services (NMDVS) provides transition services for homeless and at risk New Mexico Veterans. Contact the NMDVS for more information.
NMDVS, Contact Information
Learn more about New Mexico Homeless and At-Risk Veteran Services
New Mexico Veteran Integration Centers (VIC): VIC serves the Albuquerque and Alamogordo Veteran communities by providing:
- Housing options
- Mental health counseling
- Clothing and donations program
- Food pantry and nutrition education
- Community support shuttle
Who is eligible for assistance from New Mexico VIC: To be eligible for VIC assistance, individuals must be homeless or at-risk of homelessness and meet the following requirements:
- Veteran who served in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces (some programs require active duty service)
- Homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
- Discharged under conditions of other than dishonorable
- Unremarried surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran
- Must live in New Mexico
For more information, please contact the nearest VIC office:
Headquarters
2115 Wyoming Boulevard NE
Albuquerque, NM 87112
Phone: 505-296-0800
Fax: 505-332-8092
Central Office
13032 Central Avenue SE
Albuquerque, NM 87123
Phone: 505 296-0800
Fax: 505-266-2609
Brandon Tree Office
1335-3 Ortiz Drive SE
Albuquerque, NM 87108
Phone: 505-265-0512
Fax: 505-332-8092
Alamogordo Office
1900 23rd Street
Alamogordo, NM 88310
Phone: 575-551-6659
Fax: 505-266-2609
New Mexico Veteran Integration Center Eligibility Information
Learn more about New Mexico Veteran Integration Centers
New Mexico State Veterans’ Home: The New Mexico State Veterans’ home, provides integrated nursing services in an atmosphere that promotes the physical, social, and emotional well-being of every resident. Every effort is made to continuously improve care, while safely assisting residents to live as they choose and as independently as possible.
Who is eligible for care at the New Mexico State Veterans’ Home? Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for admission to the New Mexico State Veterans’ Home:
- Veterans who served for 90 days or more in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
- Spouse of an eligible Veteran
- Gold Star Parents, whose child died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Certain members of reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces who meet the legal residence requirements
- New Mexico residency is not a requirement, but preference in admission is given to New Mexico residents when there is a waiting list
For more information contact the:
New Mexico State Veterans’ Home 
992 South Broadway
Truth or Consequences, NM 87901
Phone: 575-894-4200
New Mexico State Veterans’ Home Admission Application
Learn more about the New Mexico State Veterans’ Home
New Mexico State Veterans Cemeteries: The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services has three State Veterans Cemeteries that provide a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members.
Cemetery Locations:
Fort Stanton State Veterans Cemetery 
1398 Hwy. 220
Fort Stanton, NM 88323
Phone: 505-205-6707
Gallup State Veterans Cemetery 
333 National Cemetery Drive
Gallup, NM 87305
Phone: 505-921-3494
Angel Fire State Veterans Cemetery 
31 Onate Road (County Rd. B4)
Angel Fire, NM 87710
Phone: 505-225-4341
Who is eligible for Burial at a New Mexico State Veterans Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for a New Mexico State Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can be found at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements to be buried in a New Mexico State Veterans Cemetery:
- 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)
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the New Mexico State Veterans Cemetery Program, Pre-Application for Burial in a State Veteran Cemetery to establish eligibility prior to need. To arrange a burial please contact the cemetery directly, for all other assistance please call 505-231-8911.
Learn more about New Mexico State Veterans Cemeteries
New Mexico Military Funeral Honors: The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services (NMDVS) coordinates with military and local Veteran organizations to provide an honor guard and bugler for funerals of deceased honorably discharged Veterans at no cost to the 
family.
For more information, please contact the NMDVS at 866-433-8387.
Learn more about New Mexico Military Funeral Honors
New Mexico Veteran Transportation Service: Disabled Veterans in northern and central New Mexico can arrange for free transportation to and from their home and the Raymond G. Murphy, VA Medical Center, or the VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in Albuquerque by calling the Disabled American Veterans at 505-256-2821.
Veterans in southeastern New Mexico can arrange for free transportation to the VA Medical Center or to a CBOC through a transportation program provided by the Southeastern New Mexico Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America. Please call 575-622-0729.
Learn more about New Mexico Veteran Transportation Service
New Mexico Women Veterans Program: The New Mexico Women Veterans Program advocates for women Veterans throughout New Mexico.
They work to ensure women Veterans and their eligible dependents are aware of available state and federal benefits and that they have equitable access to Veteran programs and services.
Their webpage has contact information for female Veteran Service officers as well as links to resources of interest to women Veterans.
New Mexico Women Veterans Program, Homelessness Pamphlet
New Mexico Women Veterans Program, Mentorship Pamphlet
Learn more about the New Mexico Women Veterans Program
Military Discharge Papers Protection: Military discharge papers filed by Veterans with New Mexico County Clerks are not considered public record and can only be released to the Veteran, their next of kin or someone who has a general power of attorney from the Veteran.
New Mexico County Clerk Directory
Learn more about Military Discharge Papers Protection
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in New Mexico
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in New Mexico: 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 New Mexico
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in New Mexico: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in New Mexico. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in New Mexico
Military Installations in New Mexico
Please see the New Mexico Military Resource Locator for additional information.
Active Duty
Army
White Sands Missile Range
Air Force
Holloman AFB
Kirtland AFB
Cannon AFB
National Guard
New Mexico National Guard
New Mexico Army National Guard
New Mexico Air National Guard
150 th Special Operations Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
63 rd Readiness Division
New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
New Mexico Higher Education Department
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, Military and Veteran License Plates
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, New Mexico Facility Directory
Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, New Mexico
New Mexico Veterans Employment Resource Guide
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory