Colorado

State Population: 4,527,963
Veteran Population: 348,485

Education

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In Colorado, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits. These include programs such as the Colorado National Guard Tuition Assistance Program, which provides financial support for undergraduate and graduate studies, and the Colorado National Guard Dependent Tuition Assistance Program, offering assistance to dependents pursuing undergraduate degrees. Additionally, the Colorado National Guard Scholarship Program provides scholarships for National Guard members attending Colorado colleges and universities. These benefits aim to alleviate the financial burden of education for veterans and National Guard members in Colorado. It's recommended to consult the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for the most up-to-date information on these education benefits.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
    • Members of the Colorado National Guard may be eligible for up to 100% state tuition assistance at selected schools. The tuition assistance is capped at $4,250 per semester and is good for 132 semester hours or 8 years total use, whichever comes first.
  • Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • Colorado 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 Colorado National Guard or the Veterans Services Office in Colorado 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 Colorado.
  • Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
    • (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall issue military spouses a three-year non-renewable temporary license so long as the military spouse is licensed in another state or territory in good standing. There will be no fees for the issuance of this permit.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
    • No

Business Benefits

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The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to supporting veteran entrepreneurs through business counseling, training, and a wide range of resources. Their services cover essential areas such as business planning, access to capital, marketing strategies, and government contracting opportunities. For veterans navigating the government procurement process, the Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) provides invaluable guidance on registration, bidding, requirements, and proposal submission. While Colorado does not have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, being a veteran-owned business can still offer advantages and opportunities in securing government contracts and procurement. Colorado also provides various financing programs, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business growth and expansion. These programs are made available through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade in collaboration with local financial institutions. Additionally, Colorado recognizes the contributions of veterans by offering a tax credit to businesses owned by veterans, disabled veterans, and surviving spouses of deceased veterans. This tax credit is available to qualifying businesses that have obtained certification from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Through these resources and incentives, Colorado aims to empower and support veteran entrepreneurs in their business ventures. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Colorado, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at https://www.coloradosbdc.org/, the Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.coloradoptac.org/, and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade at https://choosecolorado.com/. 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 Colorado for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
  • Business License Exemption/Extension/Fee Waiver
  • Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
  • Business Resource and Education Programs
  • Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
    • - State Department: Colorado Economic Development Commission Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Colorado Venture Capital Authority
      - Program Types: -Collateral Support Program -Loan Participation Program -Equity Capital Program (Funds)
      - Program Names: -Cash Collateral Support -CLIMBER Loan Fund -Colorado Venture Capital Authority
      - Contact Information: [email protected] [email protected]

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

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In Colorado, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access several tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for property tax exemptions, providing relief from property taxes based on the disability rating. The state offers a Disabled Veterans' Exemption for those with 100% permanent and total disability. Under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act, military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes, even if they move to Colorado due to military orders. Additionally, the Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation offers homebuyer assistance programs, including down payment and closing cost grants, to eligible veterans and low-income families. It's recommended to consult the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs or relevant state agencies for specific eligibility requirements and further details.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • Veterans 65 years or older are qualified for 50% exemption on property taxes on the first $200,000 of value assessed on their property. Spouses of those who would qualify are also eligible, if the veteran passes away. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
  • Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
    • Military pension amounts are based on age and can be excluded from Colorado income, based upon age: $20,000 (55-64); $24,000 (65+)

State Employment Programs

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In the state of Colorado, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to various state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment journey. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) offers comprehensive veterans' services including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Colorado provides veterans' preference, granting eligible individuals additional points in hiring and promotional exams for public employment. Colorado Workforce Centers, operated by CDLE, provide employment assistance, job search resources, workshops, and career counseling. The state also offers small business assistance for veterans interested in starting or expanding their own businesses, providing resources, training, and counseling. Additionally, Colorado employs Veterans' Employment Specialists within CDLE who offer personalized career counseling, job matching, and access to resources tailored to veterans' needs. These state initiatives aim to facilitate employment opportunities and career success for veterans, guard members, and reserve members throughout Colorado.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • Colorado does offer Military Service Credit in its retirement system for eligible state employees. The Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) allows members who have served in the military to receive credit for their military service towards their retirement benefits. Qualified individuals can apply to have their military service credited towards their retirement by submitting relevant documentation, such as a DD Form 214 or other proof of military service. The military service credit can help increase the member's total years of service, which can have a positive impact on their retirement benefits, such as a higher pension or earlier retirement eligibility. It is important to note that specific requirements and processes for obtaining military service credit may vary. It is recommended to contact the Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association directly or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and the process for obtaining military service credit in Colorado's retirement system.
  • Offers Reduced Cost Business and Occupational Licenses or business taxes

State DMV Programs

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No summary available.
  • Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
  • Offers Vehicle Privilege or License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption

Recreation Programs

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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 State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
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