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California

State Population: 30,311,936
Veteran Population: 1,342,337

Education

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In California, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits to support their educational pursuits. These benefits include programs such as the California College Fee Waiver Program and the CalVet College Tuition Fee Waiver, which provide tuition and fee waivers for eligible dependents, surviving spouses, and veterans attending California colleges and universities. The California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program offers financial assistance for National Guard members, while the California Veterans Fee Waiver covers tuition and fees for eligible veterans and dependents at California Community Colleges and State Universities. Additionally, the California Department of Veterans Affairs provides outreach and support services, and the State Approving Agency ensures the approval and oversight of educational programs for veterans. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the California Department of Veterans Affairs directly.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
    • The California Military Department GI Bill Award Program issues financial awards to qualifying members of the California Army or Air National Guard and State Military Reserve. This state grant can pay for up to 100% of the tuition and fees at the Universities of California, California State Universities, and California Community Colleges.
  • Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
    • California College Fee Waiver for Veterans. This program provides eligible veterans with a waiver of mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at public colleges and universities in California. The California College Fee Waiver for Veterans is administered by the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). Eligibility requirements may include criteria such as having served on active duty, being a resident of California, and meeting certain income and asset limitations. It's important to note that California also offers other educational benefits and resources for veterans, such as the GI Bill and various scholarship programs. I recommend contacting the California Department of Veterans Affairs or visiting their website for detailed information about the available tuition assistance programs for veterans in California. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding eligibility requirements and application procedures.
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • Qualifying military dependents may be eligible for a waiver of statewide tuition and fees (excluding books, housing, and meals) for California State University, University of California, and any State of California community college. Read about the CalVet education benefits under which you may be eligible.
  • Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
    • (State's recognition process excludes many professions) State agencies shall issue expedited licenses to military spouses licensed in another state. State agencies shall issue temporary licenses to military spouses licensed in good standing in another state. For some professions, the military spouse may be required to take a state-specific examination to receive the temporary license. Temporary licenses expire 12 months after issuance, or upon the issuance or denial of an expedited permanent license. Temporary licenses are only available for the following professions: registered nurses, vocational nurses, psychiatric technicians, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, veterinarians, all licensees of the State Medical Board, and all licensees for the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022

Business Benefits

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The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) serves as a valuable resource for veteran-owned businesses in California, providing a range of support services. They offer crucial information on business development, certifications, financing options, and networking opportunities. Additionally, CalVet serves as an advocate for veteran-owned businesses and facilitates connections with government contracting opportunities. The California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) is another key entity that offers programs and resources to bolster small businesses, including those owned by veterans. GO-Biz provides assistance in areas such as business planning, access to capital, workforce development, and navigating government contracts and procurement. The California Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) play a vital role in supporting veteran entrepreneurs through business counseling, training, and resources. Their expert advisors provide guidance on diverse topics including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and accessing capital. Furthermore, SBDCs are equipped to assist with government contracting opportunities. For veteran-owned businesses seeking assistance in navigating the government procurement process, the California Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) are available. They offer invaluable guidance on registering as a government contractor, identifying bidding opportunities, comprehending requirements, and preparing proposals. Lastly, California offers the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) certification, providing recognition and access to state government contracting and procurement programs specifically reserved for DVBEs. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in California, I recommend visiting the official websites of the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) at https://www.calvet.ca.gov/, the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) at https://business.ca.gov/, the California Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) at https://smallbizla.org/, and the California Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) at https://www.californiaptac.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 your specific area of California for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners.
  • Business License Exemption/Extension/Fee Waiver
    • Itinerant Veteran Vendor Business License, Tax, and 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: California Infrastructure and Economic Development
      - Program Types: -Loan Guarantee Program -OCSP - Other -Collateral Support Program -Capital Access Program
      - Program Names: -Bank Small Business Loan Guarantee Program -California Co-investment Initiative -Collateral Support Program -California Capital Access Program -Inclusive California Initiative
      - Contact Information: [email protected]

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

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In California, veterans, military spouses, and dependents have access to 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. California offers the homeowners' property tax exemption for all homeowners, including veterans. The state also provides assistance through the California Veterans Farm and Home Purchase Program, offering direct loans for agricultural land or homes. Veterans can benefit from the CalVet Home Loans program, which provides low-interest home loans with favorable terms. Furthermore, military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act. These programs aim to provide financial relief, favorable loan options, and tax exemptions, supporting veterans and their families in California. It's recommended to consult the California Department of Veterans Affairs or relevant state agencies for specific eligibility requirements and further details.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • The state of California offers up to $4,000 exemption for all veterans, $134, 706 for disabled veterans, and up to $202,000 exemption for low income and disabled veterans. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
  • 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: California Military Family Relief Fund (CMFRF)
      Program Description: CMFRF provides short term, financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible Service members in the California National Guard who have been impacted by mobilization and deployment.
      Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
      - Military Families
      - Surviving Families
      - Wounded / Injured

State Employment Programs

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In the state of California, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment goals. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) offers comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, and access to job training programs. The California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) collaborates with local workforce development boards to provide tailored job placement assistance and skills training for veterans and military members. California provides state civil service preference, granting eligible individuals additional points in hiring and promotional exams for government positions. The California Transition Assistance Program (CalTAP) offers workshops, job search assistance, and resume writing support to transitioning service members and veterans. The Employment Development Department (EDD) provides personalized support and job search resources through their Veterans Services Program. Additionally, California offers apprenticeship programs that can benefit veterans and military members seeking employment and skill development. These state initiatives aim to facilitate employment and career advancement for veterans, guard members, and reserve members throughout California.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • California does offer Military Service Credit in its retirement system for eligible state employees. The California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) 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, including 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 CalPERS 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 California'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
  • Offers Free or Discounted Public Transportation Programs or Parking

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 State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers

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