Dashboard > State Search > Tennessee
{{mapHeader}}
Tennessee
Review State Benefits/Programs
Education
In the state of Tennessee, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits. The Tennessee Strong Act and the Tennessee Veterans Education Transition Support (VETS) Program are two key programs that provide financial assistance for education. The Tennessee Strong Act offers tuition-free education to eligible Tennessee National Guard members pursuing a degree at eligible public colleges or universities. The VETS Program provides supplemental payments for tuition and fees to eligible veterans pursuing postsecondary education. These state-funded programs aim to support veterans and National Guard members in pursuing higher education and transitioning to civilian careers. For more detailed information and specific eligibility criteria, it is advisable to contact the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services or visit their official website.
- Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Tennessee STRONG Act (Support, Training, and Renewing Opportunity for National Guardsmen). The Tennessee STRONG Act provides eligible members of the Tennessee National Guard with financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible Tennessee colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). Under the Tennessee STRONG Act, eligible Tennessee 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 Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) or the Tennessee 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 Tennessee. 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
- The Helping Heroes Grant awards up to $1,000 per semester for up to eight full semesters for honorably-discharged veterans and service members in Tennessee. Current & former reserve or national guard members called into active duty are also eligible. Qualified members must have been a Tennessee resident for one year prior to completing the grant application. The amount of financial aid you may qualify for is dependent on the nature of your military service. Veterans must also complete 12 or more credits each semester.The Helping Heroes Grant is awarded to on average 375 veterans per year. Applicants must not hold a baccalaureate degree and be enrolled in a 2 or 4 year postsecondary institution.
- Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- Tennessee STRONG Act provides tuition funding assistance for eligible spouses and dependents of military service members. The program covers tuition and fees at eligible Tennessee colleges and universities. It is designed to support career and technical education programs that lead to in-demand occupations in Tennessee. Additionally, Tennessee 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 Tennessee Department of Military or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Tennessee 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 Tennessee.
- Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State's recognition process excludes many professions) State agencies shall allow licensed military spouses from states with reasonably similar education/training requirements to practice without a local license (that is, true recognition). However, this statute excludes professions regulated by the state athletic commission, the board of healing arts, the board for licensing hospitals, the stream pollution control board, the pest control board, the board of examiners for registered professional sanitarians, the board of examiners of miners, and the board of law examiners.
- Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
- working on implementation
Business Benefits
Tennessee provides several resources and programs to support veteran-owned businesses, including a Veteran-Owned Business Certification program through the Tennessee Department of General Services, which helps veteran-owned businesses gain recognition and access to procurement opportunities. The Tennessee Small Business Development Centers (TSBDC) offer business counseling, training, and resources for veteran entrepreneurs, while the Tennessee Veterans Business Association (TVBA) serves as a resource and advocacy organization for veteran business owners in Tennessee, providing networking opportunities, educational events, mentorship programs, and assistance with accessing resources and opportunities. Tennessee also offers various financing programs to support veteran-owned businesses, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. The state provides procurement opportunities specifically for veteran-owned businesses through initiatives and set-aside programs that give priority consideration to veteran-owned businesses when awarding government contracts.
To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Tennessee, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Tennessee Department of General Services at https://www.tn.gov/generalservices.html, the Tennessee Small Business Development Centers (TSBDC) at https://www.tsbdc.org/, and the Tennessee Veterans Business Association (TVBA) at https://www.tvba.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 Tennessee for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
- Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
- State of Tennessee's Diversity Business Enterprise program
- Business Resource and Education Programs
- Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development
- Program Types: Equity Capital Program (Direct) Loan Participation Program Equity Capital Program (Direct) Equity Capital Program (Funds)
- Program Names: BuildTN Tech Fund Program TN Loan Participation Program BuildTN Regional Seed Program BuildTN Multi-Fund Program
- Contact Information: Lamont.Price@tn.gov
- - State Department: Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development
Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs
In the state of Tennessee, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access several beneficial programs and initiatives. Firstly, the Disabled Veterans' Property Tax Relief program offers property tax relief to disabled veterans and surviving spouses. Secondly, military retirement pay is exempt from state income tax, providing significant tax advantages to retired military personnel. Thirdly, the Tennessee Veterans' Home Loan Program ensures affordable home loans with favorable terms for eligible veterans and active duty military personnel. Lastly, various housing assistance programs, including rental assistance, homelessness prevention, and transitional housing, are available to support veterans and their families. These programs collectively aim to provide financial relief, homeownership opportunities, and housing assistance to enhance the lives of veterans and their loved ones in Tennessee.
- Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Tennessee veterans are eligible for a maximum veteran tax exemption of $175,000. Veterans must be 100% disability status due to time as a prisoner of war, have loss of two or more limbs, paraplegic, or legally blind. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
- Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- No state income tax on earnings or pensions
State Employment Programs
In Tennessee (TN), there are several State Employment programs, preferences, and benefits available for veterans and guard and reserve members. The state follows the Tennessee Veterans' Preference Law, which grants veterans preference in public employment and promotions. The Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG) program, operated by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, provides dedicated employment assistance to veterans, transitioning service members, and eligible spouses. Veterans can also access services through the Tennessee Career Center System, which offers job search assistance, career counseling, skills assessment, and training opportunities. Additionally, the Tennessee State Guard offers part-time service opportunities for veterans and individuals with military experience, focusing on community service and emergency response. These programs and benefits aim to support veterans and military personnel in finding employment, accessing career resources, and receiving assistance in Tennessee.
- Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- The Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: TCRS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a TCRS member, you may be eligible to receive vesting credit. 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 Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact TCRS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Tennessee.
State DMV Programs
- Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
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
Nashville
State Population
5,417,939
Veteran Population
394,604
Veteran Population Percentage
7.28%
Veteran Benefits
15
