Arkansas

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Review State Benefits/Programs

Education

In Arkansas, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits. These include the Arkansas G.I. Dependents' Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships to dependents of disabled or deceased Arkansas residents; the Arkansas National Guard Tuition Assistance Program, offering financial support for undergraduate and graduate studies to eligible National Guard members; and the Arkansas Veterans Education Travel Reimbursement Grant, which helps veterans with travel expenses when attending out-of-state educational institutions. These benefits aim to alleviate the financial burden of education for veterans and their dependents in Arkansas.

Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver Program (NGTW): The Arkansas NGTW pays up to 120 credit hours or until completion of a bachelor’s degree, whichever comes first. NGTW will be applied to tuition first so that a Service member’s GI Bill can be used to cover all additional costs.soldier taking notes The NGTW can be used to cover mandatory fees, but does not cover other fees, such as books, etc. Who is eligible for Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver Program? All current Arkansas National Guard Service members who meet the following requirements are eligible for NGTW: Arkansas Resident Completed initial active duty training Does not already hold a bachelor’s or higher degree Enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at an Arkansas public institution of higher education Not flagged for serious misconduct (such as AWOL, ASAP, etc.)
Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- The Arkansas Dependents Scholarship Program (MDS) provides financial aid for qualifying military spouses or dependents who want to earn their bachelor’s degree or certificate of completion from an Arkansas public college, university, or technical school. To qualify, you must be a spouse or dependent child of a resident Arkansas military member who was: classified as missing in action, killed in action, or a prisoner of war killed on ordnance delivery classified as 100% totally and permanently disabled as a result of active military service The program covers the unpaid part of the cost (if any) of tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus room and board, after three months of Dependents Education Assistance (DEA) benefits have been deducted from the total cost.
  - Resource Link
Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall grant automatic occupational licensure to military spouses who hold a similar license in another state and are in good standing. State agencies shall provide an expedited process for military spouses, and shall provide temporary or provisional licenses to military spouses upon receipt of the required documentation or completion of a required examination.
  - Resource Link
Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
- working on implementation

Business Benefits

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC) provides comprehensive support to veteran entrepreneurs through business counseling, training, and resources. Their expert advisors offer guidance on crucial aspects such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and accessing capital. Moreover, the ASBTDC assists veteran-owned businesses in navigating government procurement with the aid of the Arkansas Procurement Assistance Center (APAC). While Arkansas doesn't have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, being a veteran-owned enterprise can present advantageous opportunities in securing government contracts and procurement. Additionally, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) offers an array of programs and resources to foster the growth of small businesses, including those owned by veterans, encompassing assistance in business development, capital accessibility, workforce training, and networking opportunities. Furthermore, Arkansas demonstrates its commitment to veterans by implementing a veterans' preference policy in state employment, prioritizing qualified veterans and their eligible spouses in the hiring process for state jobs. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Arkansas, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC) at https://asbtdc.org/, the Arkansas Procurement Assistance Center (APAC) at https://www.uaex.edu/business-communities/business/apac/index.aspx, and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) at https://www.arkansasedc.com/. 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 and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) in Arkansas for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.

Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
- Minority Business Enterprise program
  - Resource Link
Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Arkansas Development Finance Authority
  - Program Types: -Capital Access Program -Equity Capital Program (Funds) -Equity Capital Program (Direct) -Program Loan Participation Program -Loan Guarantee Program -Program Loan Guarantee Program
  - Program Names: -Arkansas Capital Access Program -Arkansas Venture Development Fund -Arkansas Venture Capital Development Fund -ADFA Bond Guaranty/Loan Participation -ADFA DBE MWOBE - Loan Mobilization Revolving Fund -ADFA Small Business Revolving Loan Guaranty
  - Contact Information: Charles.Cathey@arkansas.gov Mark.Conine@arkansas.gov

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

In Arkansas, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access various tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for property tax exemptions based on their disability rating, providing partial or complete relief from property taxes. The Arkansas Veterans Home Loan Program offers low-interest home loans with favorable terms to eligible veterans. Under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act, military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes, even if they move to Arkansas due to military orders. The state's Veterans' Commission Fund provides financial assistance and support in areas such as education, healthcare, housing, and employment. Additionally, the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs may offer land sales and leases at discounted rates or favorable terms exclusively for veterans. These programs aim to provide financial relief, favorable loan options, and support services to veterans and their families in Arkansas. For specific eligibility criteria and further details, it's advisable to consult the relevant state agencies or official sources.

Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Arkansas veterans, along with their (unmarried) spouses and dependent children should the veteran pass away, are entitled to full exemption from property taxes if the veteran is blind, missing an eye or limb, or has 100% disability status. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
Offers complete homestead property tax exemption for 100 percent disabled veterans and surviving spouses
Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- Military retirement pay exempt

State Employment Programs

No summary available.

Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System (APERS) allows 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 Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System directly or visit their official website 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

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 Discounted Hunting & Fishing Licenses
  - Resource Link
Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
- Resource Link