Vermont

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Review State Benefits/Programs

Education

In Vermont, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits to support their educational pursuits. These include the Vermont Tuition Assistance Program (VTA), which provides tuition assistance for National Guard members at participating institutions. Veterans who are legal residents of Vermont may qualify for a tuition waiver through the Veterans Tuition Waiver program. The Vermont Veterans Tuition Scholarship is available to eligible veterans pursuing a degree at participating Vermont institutions. Additionally, the Vermont War Orphans Education Assistance program offers educational assistance to children of veterans who died or became disabled due to military service. These state-funded programs aim to assist veterans, National Guard members, and their families in achieving their educational goals. For specific eligibility criteria and application details, individuals are encouraged to contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs or visit their official website.

Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- Eligible members of the Vermont National Guard who are in good standing can get free tuition at Vermont State Colleges, the University of Vermont, and Vermont Private Colleges (up to the Northern Vermont University rate). Awards amounts vary by college. The total benefits are for: one completed Bachelor’s Degree two certificate programs per term, or up to four certificate programs per year
Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
- Vermont Veterans' Education and Training Program (VET). Under the VET program, eligible veterans may receive financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible Vermont colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary. We recommend contacting the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Vermont to get detailed information about the current programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for tuition assistance 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
- Vermont 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 Vermont National Guard or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Vermont 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 Vermont.
Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall expedite the issuance of professional licenses to military spouses licensed in another jurisdiction in good standing. The process is different for each profession, in most cases will not require more than three years of practice in another United States jurisdiction, regardless of whether that jurisdiction has licensing requirements which are substantially similar to those of Vermont. Agencies may inquire into criminal background histories and request state and federal background checks. Upon request, application fees of qualified military members and spouses shall be waived.
  - Resource Link
Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022

Business Benefits

Vermont provides several programs and services to support veteran-owned businesses. The state offers a Veteran-Owned Business Certification program through the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, which helps veteran-owned businesses gain recognition and access to procurement opportunities. The Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) provides free and confidential business counseling and support services to veteran entrepreneurs, offering guidance on business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, access to capital, and navigating government procurement processes. Vermont also has procurement preferences for veteran-owned businesses, giving priority consideration to certified veteran-owned businesses in its procurement processes. Additionally, the state offers various financing programs, grants, and networking opportunities through organizations such as the Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) and the Vermont Veterans Business Network (VTVBN). To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Vermont, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) at https://accd.vermont.gov/ and the Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) at https://www.veda.org/. These websites should provide information on programs, certifications, financing options, 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 Vermont for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.

Business Resource and Education Programs
- Resource Link
Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Vermont Center for Emerging Technologies (VCET) Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) Vermont Economic Development Authority
  - Program Types: Loan Participation Program Equity Capital Program (Direct) Equity Capital Program (Funds)
  - Program Names: Vermont Loan Participation Program Vermont Equity Capital Program (Direct) Vermont Equity Capital Program (Funds)
  - Contact Information: trichardson@veda.org

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

In Vermont, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can take advantage of several state tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Firstly, there is a property tax exemption available for eligible veterans and surviving spouses, which helps reduce the amount owed on their homes. Secondly, military retirement pay is exempt from Vermont state income tax, providing additional financial relief for retired military personnel. Additionally, there is a Veterans' Land Discount Program that allows veterans to purchase state-owned land at discounted prices, promoting land ownership affordability. Lastly, the Veterans Housing Assistance Program assists veterans in finding affordable housing options and securing housing loans. These comprehensive initiatives in Vermont are designed to support and honor the military community by providing tax relief, land ownership opportunities, and housing assistance.

Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- A disabled veteran in Vermont may receive a property tax exemption of at least $10,000 on his/her primary residence if the veteran is 50 percent or more disabled as a result of service. The exemption amount varies as each town votes on the amount. The maximum exemption amount allowed by the state is $40,000. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 50%+)
Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- No special tax Treatment of military retirement pay
Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
- Program Name: Vermont Veterans Assistance Fund
  Program Description: The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs administers the Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund. This program can provide a one-time payment to Vermont Veterans or their Families who are in a financial crisis and need help paying for a critical need, such as housing and utilities. The amount of assistance provided can be up to $500. Please call the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 888-666-9844 or 802-828-3379 to apply. Who is eligible for the Vermont Veterans Assistance Fund? Resident Vermont Veterans and their Families are eligible for assistance.
  Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
  - Military Families
  - Surviving Families
  - Wounded / Injured
  - Resource Link

State Employment Programs

In the state of Vermont, there are several state programs, preferences, and benefits available for veterans, guard members, and reservists. The Vermont Veterans' Employment Program (VEP) provides employment services, job search assistance, and career counseling. Veterans also receive preferential treatment through the Vermont Veterans' Preference program, giving them an advantage in state government hiring. The Vermont National Guard Employment Enhancement Program offers resources for job search, resume writing, and career development to Guard members and their families. Additionally, the Vermont Veterans Small Business Assistance Program supports veterans in starting or expanding small businesses by providing training, mentoring, and access to capital. These initiatives collectively aim to support veterans and their families in employment, entrepreneurship, and career advancement.

Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- The Vermont State Retirement System (VSRS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Vermont State Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the Vermont State Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: VSRS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a VSRS 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 Vermont State Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact VSRS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Vermont.

State DMV Programs

Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
- Resource Link
Offers Vehicle Privilege or License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption
- 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.

Offers discounted or free Hunting & Fishing Licenses
- Offers Discounted Hunting & Fishing Licenses
  - Resource Link
Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
- Resource Link