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Mississippi
Review State Benefits/Programs
Education
In Mississippi, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits. The State Veterans' Education Benefits provide tuition assistance for eligible veterans and National Guard members pursuing higher education at approved Mississippi institutions. Additionally, the Mississippi National Guard Educational Assistance Program offers tuition assistance for Mississippi National Guard members pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. The Mississippi Military Family Relief Fund provides financial assistance, including education-related expenses, to eligible military families in times of hardship. Furthermore, the State Veterans Home Tuition Grant Program supports dependents of Mississippi veterans residing in state veterans' homes with tuition grants for eligible Mississippi institutions. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board directly.
- Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Mississippi National Guard Tuition Assistance Program (MNGTAP). The MNGTAP provides eligible members of the Mississippi National Guard with financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible Mississippi colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Mississippi National Guard State Tuition Assistance Office. Under the MNGTAP, eligible Mississippi 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 Mississippi National Guard State Tuition Assistance Office or the Mississippi National Guard Recruiting Office to get detailed information about the current program, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for state-funded tuition assistance for National Guard members in Mississippi. 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
- Mississippi Veterans' Tuition Assistance Program. Under this program, eligible veterans may receive a tuition waiver to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible public institutions in Mississippi. The program is administered by the Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary. We recommend contacting the Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Mississippi 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
- The State of Mississippi offers free tuition for Mississippi resident children of veterans classified as Prisoners of War (POW) or missing in action (MIA). Qualifying children attending state-support schools may qualify for eight semesters of education benefits. The benefit does not cover the cost of books, food, supplies, dues, or fees for extracurricular activities.
- Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall, within 120 days of receipt of an application, issue licenses to military spouses licensed in good standing in another state, so long as the military spouse does not have a disqualifying criminal record. If coming from a state that does not provide licensing for the occupation in question but Mississippi does require such licensing, state agencies shall grant a license to the military spouse so long as they have at least 3 years of work experience without any issues. Military spouses may be required to pass examinations specific to the relevant laws that regulate the occupation if standardly required. If a military spouse's application will take longer than 2 weeks to process, state agencies shall issue a temporary permit within 30 days of receipt of an application. The military spouse may practice under the temporary permit, which expires 365 days after issuance, until either a permanent license is granted or denied. These provisions specifically do not apply to the practice of law.
- Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
- No
Business Benefits
The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is committed to providing valuable information and assistance to veteran business owners, offering resources, training, and networking opportunities to help veterans start and expand their businesses. The MDA plays a crucial role in connecting veterans with procurement opportunities and providing guidance in navigating the government contracting process. For comprehensive business support, the Mississippi Small Business Development Centers (MSBDC) serve as a valuable resource. The MSBDC offers specialized business counseling, training, and resources tailored specifically to veteran entrepreneurs, covering crucial 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 intricacies of government procurement, the Mississippi Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) provides invaluable support to veteran-owned businesses. Their knowledgeable team offers guidance on registering as a government contractor, finding bidding opportunities, understanding regulations, and preparing and submitting proposals. While Mississippi 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, Mississippi offers various financing programs to support veteran-owned businesses, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. The Mississippi Development Authority 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 Mississippi, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) at https://www.mississippi.org/, the Mississippi Small Business Development Centers (MSBDC) at https://www.mssbdc.org/, and the Mississippi Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) at https://www.mscpc.com/ptap/. 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 Mississippi for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
- Offers State Funding opportunity or Financial Assistance
- Business Resource and Education Programs
- Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Mississippi Development Authority
- Program Types: Loan Guarantee Program Equity Capital Program (Funds)
- Program Names: Small Business Loan Guaranty Program Mississippi Equity Fund
- Contact Information: ssbci@mississippi.org
- - State Department: Mississippi Development Authority
Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs
In Mississippi, veterans, military spouses, and dependents have access to several tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and surviving spouses can benefit from a Homestead Exemption, which provides property tax relief on their primary residence. Mississippi exempts military pay earned while on active duty from state income tax, offering tax relief for service members. The Veterans' Home Purchase Board assists eligible veterans in purchasing homes through low-interest loans and down payment assistance. These programs aim to provide financial support, favorable tax treatment, and homeownership opportunities to veterans and their families in Mississippi. For specific eligibility criteria and further details, it is recommended to consult the Mississippi Department of Revenue, Mississippi Home Corporation, Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, or relevant state agencies.
- Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Veterans with 100% disability connected to service are eligible to receive exemption on all ad valorem taxes on the assessed value of their homesteads. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
- Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- Military retirement pay exempt
State Employment Programs
In Mississippi, there are state programs and preferences aimed at supporting veterans, guard members, and reserve members in their employment endeavors. One such program is the Veterans' Preference in Public Employment, which grants veterans an advantage in the hiring process for state and local government positions. Additionally, the Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board offers various services to veterans, including job placement assistance, vocational training, and educational opportunities. These initiatives reflect the state's commitment to honoring and providing employment support to those who have served their country.
- Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- The Mississippi Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Mississippi Public Employees' Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the Mississippi Public Employees' Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: PERS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a PERS 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 Mississippi Public Employees' Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact PERS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Mississippi.
- 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
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 Free or Discounted Firearms permit or license or exemptions
Information
Capital
Jackson
State Population
2,243,834
Veteran Population
155,272
Veteran Population Percentage
6.92%
Veteran Benefits
17
