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Massachusetts
Review State Benefits/Programs
Education
In Massachusetts, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits through the Massachusetts National Guard Education Assistance Program (NGEAP). This program provides tuition and fee assistance to eligible members of the Massachusetts National Guard pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at approved Massachusetts institutions. It covers a portion of tuition and fees, helping to alleviate the financial burden of education for National Guard members. Additionally, Massachusetts offers the Welcome Home Bonus Program, which provides a one-time payment to eligible veterans who served in certain periods of conflict. While not specific to education, this program aims to support veterans upon their return home. For the most up-to-date information and eligibility requirements, it is recommended to consult the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services directly.
- Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- The Massachusetts National Guard Education Assistance Program provides a 100% tuition and fee waiver for active members of the Massachusetts Army National Guard attending a state college, university, or community college. Assistance can continue until the member has reached 130 semester hours.
- Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
- The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers a tuition waiver to all veterans and active duty members who are permanent and legal residents of Massachusetts. This waiver is good for any Massachusetts state or community college or university campus.
- Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- The Massachusetts Public Service Scholarship Program offers free tuition to students who have experienced the loss of a parent or spouse killed or missing in the line of public service duty in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The scholarship provides free tuition at any public or independent college or university in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. To be eligible for a Massachusetts Public Service Grant, you must be a: child of a prisoner of war (POW) or service member declared missing in action (MIA) in Southeast Asia with service between Feb. 1, 1955, and the termination of the Vietnam campaign child of a Massachusetts veteran killed in action or otherwise died as a result of military service
- Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license if home state has equivalent training) State agencies shall issue expedited licenses to licensed military spouses from states with substantially equivalent education or training requirements. If a military spouse is licensed in a state that does not have substantially equivalent education or training requirements, state agencies shall issue temporary licenses to such spouses to allow the military spouse to work while completing the requirements for full licensing. Some licensing fees are waived.
- Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
- No
Business Benefits
The Massachusetts Office of Veterans' Services (OVS) is committed to providing valuable information, resources, and assistance to veteran business owners. They offer comprehensive support in areas such as business planning, access to capital, government contracting opportunities, and more. The OVS also plays a pivotal role in helping veterans navigate the certification process for veteran-owned businesses, ensuring they can take advantage of available benefits. For tailored business guidance, the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network (MSBDC) serves as a valuable resource. The MSBDC specializes in offering business counseling, training, and resources specifically tailored to veteran entrepreneurs. They provide expert guidance on critical areas such as business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, access to capital, and even government contracting opportunities. MSBDC advisors are well-equipped to assist veterans in pursuing government contracts. To navigate the complexities of government procurement, the Massachusetts Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) provides essential support to veteran-owned businesses. They offer expert guidance on registering as a government contractor, finding bidding opportunities, understanding requirements, and preparing and submitting proposals. While Massachusetts does not have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, being a veteran-owned business can still provide advantages and opportunities when seeking government contracts and procurement. Additionally, Massachusetts offers various financing programs to support veteran-owned businesses, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. The Massachusetts Office of Business Development and local financial institutions play a significant role in providing these programs, ensuring that veterans have the necessary financial resources to thrive and succeed in their business endeavors.
To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Massachusetts, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Massachusetts Office of Veterans' Services (OVS) at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-office-of-veterans-services, the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network (MSBDC) at https://www.msbdc.org/, and the Massachusetts Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.massptac.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 Massachusetts for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
- Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
- COMMBUYS Commonwealth's procurement platform where bidding opportunities occur
- Offers business Tax incentive
- Brownfields Tax Credit (BTC)
- Small Business Loan Program
- START
- Offers State Funding opportunity or Financial Assistance
- Business Resource and Education Programs
- Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Massachusetts - Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development
Massachusetts Development Finance Agency
Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation
- Program Types: Loan Participation Program Loan Guarantee Program Equity Capital Program (Direct)
- Program Names: Commercial Lending Program Community Loan Fund Guarantee Program Economically Distressed Area Loan Enhancement & Equipment Program Loan Guarantee Program Deep Tech Diversity Venture Fund
- Contact Information: michael.spicer@state.ma.us
- - State Department: Massachusetts - Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development
Massachusetts Development Finance Agency
Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation
Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs
In Massachusetts, veterans, military spouses, and dependents have access to a range of tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Property tax exemptions are available for veterans and their surviving spouses, providing relief from property taxes. Massachusetts exempts military pay earned while on active duty from state income tax, offering tax relief for service members. Veterans can also benefit from the Veterans' Home Loan Program, which offers favorable home loan options. Massachusetts 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 support veterans and their families by providing financial assistance, favorable tax treatment, and homeownership opportunities. For specific eligibility criteria and further details, it is recommended to consult the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, or relevant state agencies.
- Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Veterans are entitled to a $400 exemption for 10% disabled status, or receiving a purple heart. $750 in exemptions for injuries resulting in the loss of one hand, one foot, or one eye. $1000 for 100% disability status $1,250 in exemptions for the loss of both hands, both feet, one hand and one foot, or both eyes. $1,500 for 100% disability status and has specially adapted housing. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 10%+)
- Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- Military retirement pay exempt
- Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
- Program Name: Massachusetts Chapter 115 Benefit Program for Veterans and their Family Members
Program Description: Chapter 115 Benefits Program provides financial aid for food, shelter/housing, clothing, and medical care to veterans and their dependents who have limited income. The program is overseen by the Massachusetts Department Veterans’ Services (DVS), which runs the program in partnership with local Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs). Veterans and their eligible dependents can receive cash payments or full or partial reimbursement of required expenses.
Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
- Military Families
- Surviving Families
- Wounded / Injured
- Program Name: Massachusetts Chapter 115 Benefit Program for Veterans and their Family Members
State Employment Programs
In the state of Massachusetts, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment needs. The Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) provides comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Massachusetts 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. The Massachusetts Veterans' Employment and Training Services (VETS) offers various programs and resources to assist veterans and eligible spouses in finding meaningful employment. Massachusetts Career Centers provide comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, skills assessment, training programs, and access to job listings. Additionally, the Troops to Energy Jobs program helps veterans and military personnel transition into careers in the energy industry. These state initiatives aim to enhance employment opportunities, support career development, and facilitate successful transitions for veterans, guard members, and reserve members in Massachusetts.
- Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- The Massachusetts State Employees' Retirement System (MSERS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Massachusetts State Employees' Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be an MSERS member and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: MSERS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming an MSERS 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 Massachusetts State Employees' Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact MSERS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Massachusetts.
- Offers Reduced Cost Business and Occupational Licenses or business taxes
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 Hunting & Fishing Licenses
- Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
Information
Capital
Boston
State Population
5,617,276
Veteran Population
238,039
Veteran Population Percentage
4.24%
Veteran Benefits
23