Iowa

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Review State Benefits/Programs

Education

In Iowa, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits. The Iowa Veterans Education Assistance Program (IVEAP) offers tuition grants for eligible veterans attending Iowa community colleges or state universities, while the Iowa National Guard Educational Assistance Program (NGEAP) provides tuition assistance for eligible members of the Iowa National Guard pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies at approved Iowa institutions. The National Guard Scholarship is available to Iowa National Guard members attending community colleges, and the Iowa War Orphans Educational Aid Program provides educational benefits to children of Iowa veterans who died while on active duty or due to a service-connected disability. Additionally, the Iowa Tuition Grant Program, although not specific to veterans or National Guard members, provides need-based financial aid to Iowa residents attending eligible private colleges and universities. It is recommended to consult the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs for the most up-to-date information.

Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Iowa National Guard Educational Assistance Program (NGEAP). The NGEAP provides eligible members of the Iowa National Guard with financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible Iowa colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Iowa College Student Aid Commission. Under the NGEAP, eligible Iowa National Guard members may receive up to a specified dollar amount per credit hour, up to a maximum annual limit. The program has specific eligibility criteria and application processes. We recommend contacting the Iowa College Student Aid Commission or the Iowa National Guard to get detailed information about the current program, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for state-funded tuition assistance for National Guard members in Iowa. 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
Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- Iowa participates in the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. This compact ensures that military-connected children, including spouses and dependents, have access to educational opportunities and certain benefits, including in-state tuition rates. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary. We recommend contacting the Iowa National Guard or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Iowa to get detailed information about the current programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for tuition assistance for military spouses and dependents. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the available benefits and opportunities in Iowa.
Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall issue licenses without examination to military spouses licensed in good standing in another state for at least one year, so long as the military spouse does not have a disqualifying criminal history. The military spouse must have met the minimum experience and education requirements and passed any required examination in the previous state and must pay all required fees. A state agency may require a military spouse to take an examination if the same is specific to the laws of this State. If such an examination is required, the state agency shall issue the military spouse a temporary license that is valid for a period of three months with the possibility for it to be renewed once for an additional period of three months.
  - Resource Link
Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022

Business Benefits

The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is committed to providing comprehensive support to veteran business owners. They offer a wide range of assistance, including business planning, access to capital, and government contracting opportunities. The IDVA also plays a vital role in helping veterans navigate the certification process for their businesses. For further support, the Iowa Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) are available to provide business counseling, training, and an array of resources tailored to veteran entrepreneurs. These resources encompass essential areas such as business planning, market research, financial management, and access to capital. SBDC advisors are also well-equipped to assist veterans in pursuing government contracting opportunities. The Iowa Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) is an invaluable resource for veteran-owned businesses, offering expert guidance throughout the government procurement process. They provide support in registering as a government contractor, identifying bidding opportunities, understanding requirements, and submitting proposals. Although Iowa does not have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, being a veteran-owned business can still bring advantages and opportunities when seeking government contracts and procurement. To further enhance the success of veteran-owned businesses, Iowa offers various financing programs, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. These programs are typically facilitated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and local financial institutions, ensuring that veterans have the necessary financial resources to grow their businesses. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Iowa, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) at https://va.iowa.gov/, the Iowa Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) at https://www.iowasbdc.org/, and the Iowa Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.iptac.org/. 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 Iowa for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.

Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
- Certified Targeted Small Businesses
  - Resource Link
Small Business Loan Program
- Targeted Small Business (TSB) Loans
  - Resource Link
Business Resource and Education Programs
- Resource Link
VOB Networking and Mentorship
- Resource Link
Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: BioConnect Iowa VentureNet Iowa
  - Program Types: Collateral Support Program Equity Capital Program (Direct) Loan Participation Program
  - Program Names: Targeted Small Business Collateral Support Program Venture Capital Co-Investment Fund Manufacturing 4.0 Loan Participation Program IEDA Innovation Continuum
  - Contact Information: tsbloan@iowaeda.com steve.brody@bioconnectiowa.org info@iowamfg.com innovation@iowaeda.com

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

In Iowa, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access a range of tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for property tax exemptions based on their disability rating, providing relief from property taxes. Iowa does not tax military pay received while on active duty, providing tax relief for service members. The state offers a Veterans Homeownership Assistance Program, which assists eligible veterans with down payment and closing cost assistance when purchasing a home. Under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act, military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes when relocating to Iowa. These programs aim to provide financial support, homeownership opportunities, and favorable tax treatment to veterans and their families in Iowa. It is recommended to consult the Iowa Department of Revenue, Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, or relevant state agencies for specific eligibility criteria and further details.

Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Iowa Disabled Veteran's Homestead Tax Credit: Iowa offers a 100% property tax credit for homesteads owned by eligible Veterans and the Surviving Spouse of eligible Veterans. (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
Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
- Program Name: Iowa Veterans Trust Fund
  Program Description: These rules establish the requirements for veterans, spouses or dependents to receive benefits from the veteran trust fund. Definition. For purpose of this chapter, “veteran” means the same as defined in Iowa Code section 35.1 or resident of Iowa who served honorably in the armed forces of the United States, completing a minimum of 90 days of active duty, other than training. Income. Shall not exceed 300% of poverty guidelines. The application process starts at your local VA office.
  Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
  - Military Families
  - Surviving Families
  - Wounded / Injured
  - Resource Link

State Employment Programs

In the state of Iowa, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment needs. The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) provides comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Iowa offers veterans' preference in public employment through the Veterans Preference program, granting eligible individuals additional points in hiring and promotional exams for state government positions. Home Base Iowa (HBI) encourages veterans to make Iowa their home and connects them with employment opportunities and resources. Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) specifically assists veterans with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment through vocational counseling, training, and job placement assistance. Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) offers employment services and resources to veterans, including job search assistance, career guidance, skills assessment, and training programs. These state initiatives aim to enhance employment prospects, support transitioning veterans, and promote a veteran-friendly environment in Iowa.

Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- Iowa does offer military service credit in its retirement system. The Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be an IPERS member and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: IPERS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming an IPERS member, you may be eligible to receive vesting credit towards your retirement benefits. This credit counts towards the total years of service needed to become vested in the retirement system. b. Benefit Credit: You may also be able to purchase benefit credit for your military service. This credit can increase your retirement benefit calculation. Cost and Calculation: The cost of purchasing military service credit and the calculation method can vary. It is typically based on actuarial calculations and considers factors such as the length of your military service and your salary. It's important to note that the specific rules, eligibility criteria, and costs for military service credit in the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact IPERS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Iowa.

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.