Dashboard > State Search > Connecticut
{{mapHeader}}
Connecticut
Review State Benefits/Programs
Education
In Connecticut, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits. These include programs such as the Connecticut Veterans Tuition Waiver Program and the Connecticut National Guard Tuition Waiver, which provide tuition and fee waivers for eligible veterans and National Guard members attending Connecticut state colleges and universities. Additionally, the state offers the Connecticut Veterans' Home Educational Program and the Connecticut Tuition Assistance Program for Guard and Reserves (ConnTAP) to assist veterans and National Guard members with tuition costs for postsecondary education. The Connecticut Veteran Tuition Reimbursement Program provides reimbursement for veterans attending approved educational institutions, and the Connecticut Department of Higher Education offers support services and resources to aid veterans in their pursuit of higher education. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs directly.
- Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Connecticut National Guard Tuition Waiver The State of Connecticut provides several educational benefits and opportunities for National Guard members. One of the primary programs is the Connecticut National Guard Tuition Waiver, which provides eligible National Guard members with a waiver of tuition and certain fees at participating Connecticut state colleges and universities. Under the Connecticut National Guard Tuition Waiver, eligible National Guard members may receive a full or partial waiver of tuition and fees for undergraduate or graduate programs. The program is administered by the Connecticut Office of Higher Education, and the specific eligibility criteria and application process may vary. We recommend contacting the Connecticut Office of Higher Education or the Connecticut National Guard to get detailed information about the current programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for state-funded tuition programs and waivers for National Guard members in Connecticut. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the available benefits and opportunities.
- Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
- Connecticut offers college tuition waivers for qualified veterans attending any state university or one of the 12 Connecticut Community College/Technical Colleges. This benefit is only applicable for tuition expenses for undergraduate and graduate programs and excludes course fees, books, parking, and room/board. You qualify if you have: served 90 days of active duty military service during wartime been honorably discharged were a Connecticut state resident for one year prior to applying to the college been admitted to a degree-seeking program
- Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- Dependent children of a Connecticut veteran qualify for a tuition waiver if attending a state public college or university. The veteran must have been declared missing in action or a prisoner of war while serving in the armed forces after Jan. 1, 1960. The tuition waiver applies to community/technical colleges, the Connecticut State University System (CSUS), and the University of Connecticut and covers the cost of tuition. Any fees, such as student activity fees and room and board, are excluded from the waiver.
- Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall issue licenses to military spouses from other states so long as the military spouse holds said license in at least one other jurisdiction, has practiced under the license for at least four years, is in good standing in all jurisdictions, satisfies a background or character and fitness check if required, and pays all required fees. A military spouse may be required to take all or a portion of a licensing examination. A military spouse must furnish evidence of competency to the appropriate state agency.
- Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
- working on implementation
Business Benefits
The Connecticut Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to supporting veteran entrepreneurs by offering comprehensive business counseling, training, and resources. Their services encompass essential aspects such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and access to capital. Additionally, SBDC advisors specialize in assisting veterans with government contracting opportunities, providing guidance on registration, bidding, and proposal submission through the Connecticut Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP). Connecticut recognizes the value of veteran-owned businesses and offers a certification program administered by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). This certification provides recognition and benefits to veteran-owned businesses within the state, enhancing their credibility and opening doors to further opportunities. In terms of financing, Connecticut provides various programs to support veteran-owned businesses, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development collaborates with local financial institutions to offer these programs, ensuring veterans have the financial resources they need to succeed. To further assist veterans in their entrepreneurial endeavors, the Connecticut Veterans Entrepreneurial Bootcamp is available. This program is specifically designed to provide training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources for veterans looking to start or expand their own businesses. Through this bootcamp, veterans can receive the guidance and support necessary to thrive in their entrepreneurial journey.
To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Connecticut, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Connecticut Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at https://www.ctsbdc.com/, the Connecticut Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) at https://www.ctptap.org/, and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) at https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/. 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 Connecticut for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
- Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
- Veteran-Owned Micro Business Certification
- Offers business Tax incentive
- Veterans Agriculture Program.
- Offers State Funding opportunity or Financial Assistance
- Business Resource and Education Programs
- Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
Connecticut Innovations, Inc.
- Program Types: Equity Capital Program (Funds) Loan Participation Program
- Program Names: -CT Innovations Equity Fund -CT Works Fund
- Contact Information: pauline.murphy@ctinnovations.com
- - State Department: Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
Connecticut Innovations, Inc.
Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs
In Connecticut, veterans, military spouses, and dependents have access to various tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for property tax exemptions, providing relief from property taxes based on the disability rating. Connecticut also offers an additional veterans' exemption to further reduce property tax burdens. Military pay can be excluded from state income tax for service members stationed outside of Connecticut but maintaining Connecticut residency. The Veterans' Home Loan Program provides low-interest loans to eligible veterans for purchasing homes in the state. Under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act, military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes. Additionally, the Connecticut Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines Fund offers financial assistance to veterans and their families during times of need, including housing-related expenses. It's recommended to consult the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs or relevant state agencies for specific eligibility requirements and further details.
- Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Connecticut offers veterans who have served 90 days of wartime service a $1,500 exemption on property taxes. Veterans who earn below a specific income can qualify for further exemptions, but you will need to contact a local tax authority to find out whether your specific situation qualifies. Surviving spouses may also qualify, if their veteran had. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 75%+)
- Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- Military retirement pay exempt
- Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
- Program Name: Connecticut Military Family Relief Fund
Program Description: The Connecticut Military Relief Fund provides financial grants to Service members and their Families who are experiencing a financial hardship due to military service. The amount of the grant is dependent on the unique circumstances of each case but may not exceed $5,000.
Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
- Military Families
- Surviving Families
- Wounded / Injured
- Program Name: Connecticut Military Family Relief Fund
State Employment Programs
In the state of Connecticut, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment goals. The Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) offers comprehensive veterans' services, including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Connecticut provides veterans' preference, granting eligible individuals additional points in hiring and promotional exams for public employment. The state also offers small business assistance, providing resources, training, counseling, and access to capital for veterans interested in starting or expanding their own businesses. Connecticut has specific workforce development programs tailored for veterans, focusing on training, job placement assistance, and career development services. Additionally, there are programs in place to support members of the National Guard and Reserve, ensuring re-employment support and protection of employment rights during military service. The Connecticut Veterans' Business Outreach Center (VBOC) provides specialized assistance, counseling, and training for veteran entrepreneurs. These state initiatives aim to facilitate employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and career success for veterans, guard members, and reserve members throughout Connecticut.
- Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- Connecticut does offer Military Service Credit in its retirement system for eligible state employees. The Connecticut State Employees Retirement System (SERS) allows members who have served in the military to receive credit for their military service towards their retirement benefits. Qualified individuals can apply to have their military service credited towards their retirement by submitting relevant documentation, such as a DD Form 214 or other proof of military service. The military service credit can help increase the member's total years of service, 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 obtaining military service credit may vary. It is recommended to contact the Connecticut State Employees Retirement System directly or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and the process for obtaining military service credit in Connecticut's retirement system.
State DMV Programs
- Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
- Offers Vehicle Privilege or License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption
- Offers Free or Discounted Public Transportation Programs or Parking
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 and Discounted Hunting & Fishing Licenses
- Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
Information
Capital
Hartford
State Population
2,868,774
Veteran Population
140,684
Veteran Population Percentage
4.90%
Veteran Benefits
21
