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Maine

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In Maine, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits to support their pursuit of higher education. The Maine Veterans' Dependents Education Program offers tuition waivers for dependents of eligible veterans, covering their tuition expenses at approved Maine institutions. The Maine National Guard Education Assistance Program provides tuition assistance for eligible members of the Maine National Guard, assisting with a portion of their undergraduate tuition costs at participating Maine institutions. Additionally, Maine offers educational benefits for veterans, such as the Veterans Tuition Waiver Program and the Maine Tuition Waiver Program, which provide tuition waivers for eligible veterans attending public institutions in the state. It is recommended to consult the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services for the most up-to-date information and eligibility requirements for these education benefits.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
    • Maine’s National Guard offers members a 100% tuition waiver to attend all of the schools in the University of Maine and Maine Community College Systems, as well as Maine Maritime Academy.
  • Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
    • Maine Veterans' Dependents Educational Benefits Program. Under this program, eligible veterans who are legal residents of Maine and have served during certain periods of conflict may be eligible for a tuition waiver at Maine public colleges and universities. The program also extends benefits to eligible dependents of veterans. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary. We recommend contacting the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Maine to get detailed information about the current programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for tuition waivers for veterans. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the available benefits and opportunities.
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • Maine offers qualified spouses, children, stepchildren, and adopted children a 100% waiver good for college tuition and fees at schools in the State of Maine University System, Maine Community College System and Maine Maritime Academy. Spouses may use the waiver to complete a certificate program or earn an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree. Children may use the benefit for a certificate program, associate, or bachelor’s degree. Children must enroll in the program before the age of 22. Applicants have 10 years to complete their program once enrolled. The veteran must meet one of the following requirements: 100% service-connected disabled was killed in action died from a service-connected disability while on active duty, was listed MIA for 90 days, captured or forcibly detained in the line of duty entered the service from Maine or had been a state resident for 5 years
  • Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
    • (States may choose to recognize military spouse license) State agencies may permit qualified military spouses who hold a comparable license in good standing in another state to have a license by endorsement in Maine for the remainder of the term of the original license or until the military spouse obtains a license in Maine. Some state agencies shall grant temporary licenses to qualified military spouses with a license in good standing in another state. Said temporary license is for a period of time not less than 180 days and may be extended for an additional 180 days while the military spouse is completing the requirements for full licensure in Maine. Other state agencies may grant military spouses with a temporary license for the time necessary to obtain a permanent license in Maine.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
    • working on implementation
The Maine Department of Defense, Veterans, and Emergency Management is dedicated to providing valuable resources and support to veteran business owners, offering assistance with business planning, access to capital, and government contracting opportunities. They also play a vital role in guiding veterans through the certification process for veteran-owned businesses. The Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC) are an excellent resource for veteran entrepreneurs, providing comprehensive business counseling, training, and resources that cover essential areas such as business planning, market research, financial management, and access to capital. SBDC advisors are also available to assist veterans with government contracting opportunities. For navigating the complexities of the government procurement process, the Maine Procurement Technical Assistance Center (Maine PTAC) offers expert guidance on registering as a government contractor, finding bidding opportunities, understanding requirements, and submitting proposals. Although Maine does not have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, being a veteran-owned business can still provide advantages and opportunities when pursuing government contracts and procurement. Additionally, Maine provides various financing programs, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. These programs are available through the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development and local financial institutions, ensuring that veteran-owned businesses have the necessary financial resources to thrive and succeed. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Maine, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Maine Department of Defense, Veterans, and Emergency Management at https://www.maine.gov/dvem/, the Maine Small Business Development Centers (Maine SBDC) at https://www.mainesbdc.org/, and the Maine Procurement Technical Assistance Center (Maine PTAC) at https://www.maineptac.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 Maine for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
  • Business Resource and Education Programs
  • Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
    • - State Department: Finance Authority of Maine
      - Program Types: Loan Participation Program Equity Capital Program (Funds) Loan Guarantee Program Equity Capital Program (Direct)
      - Program Names: Regional Economic Development Revolving Loan & Direct Loan Program CDFI and MVF Finance Authority of Maine, Commercial Loan Insurance Program Maine Venture Fund
      - Contact Information: mlindquist@famemaine.com jcummings@famemaine.com DMarkovchick@FAMEmaine.com
In Maine, veterans, military spouses, and dependents have access to several tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses can benefit from property tax exemptions based on their disability rating, providing relief from property taxes. Maine exempts military pay earned while on active duty from state income tax, offering tax relief for service members. Maine also follows the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act, allowing military spouses to maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes. These programs aim to provide financial support and favorable tax treatment to veterans and their families in Maine. It is advisable to consult the Maine Revenue Services, Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services, or relevant state agencies for specific eligibility criteria and further details.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • Veterans in Maine who served during wartime and are either 62 years old or older, have 100% disability status, or receive 100% disability benefits are eligible to receive $6000 in exemptions. Paraplegic veterans who receive a grant for an adapted housing unit may receive $50,000 in exemptions. Legally blind veterans receive a $4,000 exemption. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
  • Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
    • Military retirement pay exempt
  • Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
    • Program Name: Maine National Guard Foundation Fund
      Program Description: The Maine National Guard can award loans and grants for emergencies and other special needs to resident Service members in the Maine National Guard, the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and their Families. For more information, please contact the Maine National Guard Family Program Office at 888-365-9287
      Eligible Groups: - Wounded / Injured
In the state of Maine, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment needs. The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services (MBVS) offers comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Maine provides veterans' preference in public employment, granting eligible individuals additional points in hiring and promotional exams for state government positions. The Maine Military and Community Network (MMCN) collaborates to provide support and resources for military personnel, veterans, and their families, including employment assistance. Maine CareerCenters offer a wide range of employment services, including job search assistance, workshops, training programs, and access to job fairs. These state initiatives aim to enhance employment opportunities, support career development, and facilitate the successful transition of veterans, guard members, and reserve members into the Maine workforce.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • The Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Maine Public Employees Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a MainePERS member and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: MainePERS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a MainePERS 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 Maine Public Employees Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact MainePERS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Maine.
  • Offers Reduced Cost Business and Occupational Licenses or business taxes
  • Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
  • Offers Vehicle Privilege or License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption
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

Augusta

State Population

1,120,577

Veteran Population

98,703

Veteran Population Percentage

8.81%

Veteran Benefits

18

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