Alaska

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Education

In Alaska, veterans and members of the National Guard can access various state-funded education benefits. These include programs such as the Alaska National Guard Tuition Assistance Program, tuition waivers for WW II, Korea, and Vietnam veterans, supplemental tuition assistance, National Guard scholarships, and resources provided by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education and the Department of Labor and Workforce Development Veterans' Employment Services. These benefits aim to support veterans and National Guard members in pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies, providing financial assistance, and offering guidance for successful educational transitions and career opportunities. It is important to consult the Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding these education benefits.

Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Members of Alaska National Guard may receive up to 100% tuition assistance at any school in the University of Alaska system. If you qualify, undergraduate tuition and fees are waived while attending school in the University of Alaska system.
Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- Spouses and dependents may qualify for tuition waivers attending school in the University of Alaska system. If you qualify, undergraduate tuition and fees are waived while attending school in the University of Alaska system. To be eligible for the tuition waiver benefit, the deceased veteran must have been an Alaska resident, and meet one of the following criteria: Died in the line of duty Listed by the DOD as a POW Killed in action
  - Resource Link
Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license if home state has equivalent training) State agencies shall issue temporary licenses to military spouses licensed in good standing in another state with substantially equivalent education and training requirements within 30 days after receipt of a completed application. The military spouse must pay all required fees. The temporary license is valid for a period of 180 days and may be renewed for one additional 180-day period. These provisions do not apply to the practice of law.
  - Resource Link
Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
- No

Business Benefits

The Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) plays a vital role in supporting veteran entrepreneurs by offering business counseling, training, and a range of resources. Their expertise encompasses business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and access to capital, among other essential areas. SBDC advisors are also well-equipped to assist veteran-owned businesses in exploring government contracting opportunities. The Alaska Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) serves as a valuable resource for veteran entrepreneurs seeking guidance in navigating the government procurement process. They provide assistance with registering as a government contractor, identifying bidding opportunities, understanding requirements, and preparing proposals. While all businesses operating in Alaska are required to obtain a business license, there are no specific free licenses available for veterans. However, veterans may be eligible for certain fee waivers or discounts when obtaining their business licenses. The Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development offers comprehensive resources and information for veteran-owned businesses in the state. They provide guidance on business development, financing options, networking opportunities, and more. Moreover, Alaska offers various financing programs, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital, to support veteran-owned businesses. These programs may be offered through the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) and local financial institutions, providing crucial resources for business development and expansion. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Alaska, we recommend visiting the official websites of the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at https://aksbdc.org/, the Alaska Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.ptacalaska.org/, and the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development at https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/. These websites should provide information on programs, certifications, financing options, counseling services, and other resources available for veteran entrepreneurs. Additionally, you may consider reaching out to local veteran organizations, chambers of commerce, or the local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Alaska for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.

Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
- Alaska (AK) Small Business Certification Program
  - Resource Link
Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: University of Alaska Small Business Development Center
  - Program Types: -Equity Capital Program (Funds) -Loan Participation Program -Loan Guarantee Program -Collateral Support Program
  - Program Names: -Alaska Equity Program -Alaska Loan Participation Fund -Alaska Loan Guarantee Program -Alaska Collateral Fund Program
  - Contact Information: erin.baca@aksbdc.org jim.harty@aksbdc.org

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

In Alaska, veterans, military spouses, and dependents have access to several tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and surviving spouses can benefit from property tax exemptions, which provide relief from property taxes based on the disability rating. Additionally, Alaska offers a residential real property tax exemption, reducing the assessed value of eligible properties for taxation purposes. The state's Department of Natural Resources provides land sales exclusively for veterans at discounted rates, while the Alaska Veterans Mortgage Program offers low-interest loans and down payment assistance for veterans looking to purchase homes. Military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act. These programs aim to provide financial assistance, tax relief, and favorable financing options to support veterans and their families in Alaska. For detailed information and eligibility requirements, it's recommended to consult the relevant state agencies or official sources.

Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Veterans disabled 50% or more are entitled to a $150,000 tax exemption on their property taxes in the state of Alaska. Even better, this can transfer to the spouse of that veteran should the veteran pass away and the spouse is over the age of 60. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 50%+)
Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- No State Income Tax
Offers land discount program

State Employment Programs

No summary available.

Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- Alaska does offer Military Service Credit in its retirement system for state employees. The Alaska Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) and the Teachers' Retirement System (TRS) both allow eligible members to purchase additional service credit for their military service. Qualified individuals who have served in the military can apply to have their military service credited towards their retirement benefits. By purchasing military service credit, the employee's total years of service can be increased, which can have a positive impact on their retirement benefits, such as a higher pension or earlier retirement eligibility. It is important to note that specific requirements and processes for purchasing military service credit may vary. It is advisable to contact the Alaska Division of Retirement and Benefits or the appropriate retirement system directly to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and the process for purchasing military service credit.

State DMV Programs

Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
- Resource Link
Offers Discounted Highway or Toll Programs
- Resource Link
Offers Free or Discounted Public Transportation Programs or Parking
- Resource Link

Recreation Programs

Veterans can potentially benefit from a range of state recreation programs and benefits. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended you contact the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs or the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Offers discounted or free Hunting & Fishing Licenses
- Offers Free Hunting & Fishing Licenses
  - Resource Link
Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
- Resource Link
Offers Free or Discounted Firearms permit or license or exemptions
- Resource Link