Dashboard > State Search > West Virginia
{{mapHeader}}
West Virginia
Review State Benefits/Programs
Education
In West Virginia, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits to support their educational pursuits. The West Virginia Veterans Re-Education Act and the West Virginia National Guard Educational Assistance Program provide financial assistance and tuition support for eligible individuals seeking postsecondary education or vocational training. These programs aim to empower veterans and National Guard members in their pursuit of higher education and career advancement. For more information on eligibility criteria and the application process, individuals can reach out to the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance or visit their official website.
- Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- West Virginia National Guard Tuition Assistance Program (WVNG TAP). The WVNG TAP provides eligible members of the West Virginia National Guard with financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible West Virginia colleges and universities. The program is administered by the West Virginia Army National Guard Education Services Office. Under the WVNG TAP, eligible West Virginia 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 West Virginia Army National Guard Education Services Office or the West Virginia 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 West Virginia. 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 Medal of Honor and Andrew J. Trail Purple Heart Recipient Tuition Waiver provides free tuition and mandatory fees for residents who have been awarded the Medal of Honor or Purple Heart. The waiver is good for 8 semesters of free tuition at all West Virginia public institutions of higher education
- Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (HEPC) Veterans' Legacy Program. The HEPC Veterans' Legacy Program provides in-state tuition rates to eligible military spouses and dependents who are attending public colleges and universities in West Virginia. The program allows them to pay the same tuition rates as residents of West Virginia, regardless of their state of residency. Additionally, West Virginia 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 West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in West Virginia 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 West Virginia.
- Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall issue temporary licenses to military spouses licensed in good standing in another state. Said temporary license shall be issued within 30 days of receipt of a completed application. The temporary license expires 6 months after the date it is issued and may not be renewed. Some licensing fees may be waived upon request.
- Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
Business Benefits
West Virginia offers Veteran-Owned Business Certification, Business Counseling and Training, Access to Financing, Procurement Opportunities, and Networking and Collaboration opportunities. The Veteran-Owned Business Certification program is through the West Virginia Department of Administration. This certification helps veteran-owned businesses gain recognition and access to procurement opportunities. West Virginia provides business counseling and training through organizations such as the West Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and SCORE. These organizations offer one-on-one counseling, training workshops, and educational resources to help veteran entrepreneurs with business planning, marketing, financing, and other aspects of running a successful business. West Virginia offers various financing programs to support veteran-owned businesses. These programs may include loans, grants, and loan guarantee programs that provide capital for business development, expansion, or equipment acquisition. The state has initiatives and set-aside programs that give priority consideration to veteran-owned businesses when awarding government contracts. West Virginia organizes networking events, business expos, and industry conferences that allow veteran business owners to connect with other entrepreneurs, potential partners, and industry professionals. These events provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and business growth.
To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in West Virginia, I recommend visiting the official website of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance at https://veterans.wv.gov/. The website should provide information on programs, certifications, counseling services, and other resources available for veteran entrepreneurs.
Additionally, you may also consider reaching out to local veteran organizations, chambers of commerce, or the West Virginia Small Business Development Center for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
- Business License Exemption/Extension/Fee Waiver
- WV Boots 2 Biz Waiver
- Business Resource and Education Programs
- Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust
- Program Types:
- Program Names: Seed Capital Co-Investment Fund Subordinated Debt Fund Collateral Support Fund
- Contact Information: acz.jit@wvjit.org
- - State Department: West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust
Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs
In West Virginia, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access several state tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. These include a state income tax exemption for eligible veterans, a property tax exemption for disabled veterans and surviving spouses, priority access to state-owned land through the Veterans' Bonus Program, and homeownership assistance programs offered by the West Virginia Housing Development Fund. These initiatives aim to provide financial support, housing opportunities, and land access to veterans and their families in the state.
- Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- Veterans with 100% disability status may be exempt from property taxes. Full details on qualifying conditions are listed by the West Virginia Legislature. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
- Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- The first $2,000 in pension income can be excluded
State Employment Programs
In the state of West Virginia, there are several state programs, preferences, and benefits available to support veterans, guard members, and reserve members in their employment endeavors. First, veterans are granted preference in employment for both public and private sector jobs, providing them with additional points during the selection process. Additionally, West Virginia has laws safeguarding veterans' reemployment rights, ensuring they can return to their previous positions or similar ones without loss of seniority or benefits. The state's Veterans' Workforce Program offers employment assistance to veterans, providing valuable support in job search, resume writing, interview preparation, and career counseling. The Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) is also in place to assist disabled veterans, offering personalized assistance in job placement, training, and support services. Lastly, West Virginia encourages entrepreneurial opportunities for veterans by providing certain business license fee waivers, facilitating the establishment of veteran-owned businesses. These programs and preferences aim to empower veterans and members of the guard and reserve, helping them succeed in the workforce and achieve their career goals.
- Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- The West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement Board (CPRB) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the West Virginia retirement system: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: CPRB offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a CPRB 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 West Virginia Consolidated Public Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact CPRB directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in West Virginia.
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 Discounted Hunting & Fishing Licenses
- Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
- Offers Free or Discounted Firearms permit or license or exemptions
Information
Capital
Charleston
State Population
1,419,558
Veteran Population
107,271
Veteran Population Percentage
7.56%
Veteran Benefits
18
