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New York

State Population: 15,704,243
Veteran Population: 614,289

Education

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In New York, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to several state-funded education benefits. The Veterans Tuition Awards (VTA) provide financial assistance to eligible veterans pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at approved institutions. The Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship offers full tuition and fees to eligible children, spouses, and dependents of fallen or disabled military members. The Regents Award for Children of Veterans (CV) provides financial aid to students whose parents served in the military during specific periods. The Military Service Recognition Scholarship (MSRS) grants full tuition and fees to students whose parents died or were severely disabled in combat. Additionally, the Veterans' Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) matches veterans' contributions for approved educational programs. These state-funded education benefits aim to support veterans and National Guard members in pursuing higher education in New York. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the New York State Division of Veterans' Services directly.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
    • New York State Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship. The MERIT Scholarship provides eligible members of the New York National Guard with financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible New York colleges and universities. The program is administered by the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC). Under the MERIT Scholarship, eligible New York National Guard members may receive up to a specified dollar amount per academic year, up to a maximum annual limit. The program has specific eligibility criteria and application processes. We recommend contacting the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) or the New York 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 New York. 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
    • New York State offers qualified residents Veteran Tuition Awards for up to the full cost of in-state undergraduate tuition at the State University of New York. Veterans are entitled to up to 8 semesters (4 years) of undergraduate study (10 semesters for approved 5-year programs), up to 6 semesters (3 years) of graduate study, or up to a maximum of 4 semesters (2 years) of study in an approved vocational training program. To qualify, you must have been honorably discharged and are a: Vietnam Veteran who served in Indochina between Feb. 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975 Persian Gulf Veteran who served in the Persian Gulf on or after Aug. 2, 1990 Afghanistan Veteran who served in Afghanistan on or after Sept. 11, 2001 served in hostilities that occurred after Feb. 28, 1961, with receipt of an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, or Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal.
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • New York State Military Family Assistance Program (MFAP). Under the MFAP, eligible military spouses and dependents may receive financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible New York colleges and universities. The program is administered by the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary. We recommend contacting the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in New York 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 New York.
  • Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
    • (State must recognize military spouse license if home state has equivalent training) State agencies shall, after an expedited review, issue licenses to military spouses licensed in good standing in another state with substantially equivalent licensing requirements. State agencies may also grant temporary licenses to military spouses allowing them to work under the supervision of a New York licensee so long as it appears that the applicant will meet the requirements for permanent licensure (in that they are licensed in good standing in a state with substantially equivalent licensing requirements). Said temporary licenses are valid for a period of 6 months and may be extended for an additional 6 months if the applicant is expected to qualify for permanent licensure. Some licensing fees are reduced or waived.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
    • No

Business Benefits

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New York State provides resources and programs to support veteran-owned businesses. The New York State Division of Veterans' Services (DVS) provides information and assistance to veteran business owners, connecting veterans with resources, benefits, and programs available in the state. The New York Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers business counseling, training, and resources for veteran entrepreneurs, providing guidance on business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, access to capital, and government contracting opportunities. The New York State Procurement Assistance Center (PTAC) provides assistance to veteran-owned businesses in navigating the government procurement process, offering guidance on contracting opportunities, certifications, regulations, and proposal preparation. New York State's Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) certification program includes veteran-owned businesses, providing enhanced opportunities for government contracts and procurement. The state offers various financing programs to support veteran-owned businesses, including loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. The New York Business Development Corporation and local financial institutions may provide such programs. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in New York, I recommend visiting the official websites of the New York State Division of Veterans' Services (DVS) at https://veterans.ny.gov/, the New York Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at https://www.nyssbdc.org/, and the New York State Procurement Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.nysptac.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 New York for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
  • Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
  • Business Resource and Education Programs
  • Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

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In New York, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can benefit from several state programs and initiatives. These include a property tax exemption for eligible veterans and surviving spouses, providing relief from property taxes on their primary residence. Certain military retirement pay and survivor benefits are exempt from state income tax. The state operates veterans homes that offer long-term care and residential services. These programs aim to alleviate financial burdens, promote outdoor activities, and provide healthcare support for veterans and their families in New York. For specific eligibility requirements and detailed information, it is advisable to consult official sources such as the New York State Division of Veterans' Services, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, or relevant state agencies.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • Veteran status, disability status, what war the veteran served in, and the specific county or municipality where the veteran resides, all determine what exemptions apply. If you live in New York, be sure to check your town’s specific exemptions.An 100 percent disabled veteran will receive a full property tax exemption. A disabled veteran in New York may receive one of three different property tax exemptions on his/her primary residence. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 30%+)
  • Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
    • Military retirement pay exempt

State Employment Programs

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In the state of New York, there are several state programs, preferences, and benefits available to support veterans, guard members, and reserve members in their employment endeavors. New York provides veterans' preference in public employment, granting eligible veterans additional points during the hiring process for state government positions. The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) offers specialized employment services for veterans through its Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS), providing job search assistance, resume writing support, career counseling, and connections to employers who value hiring veterans. The state also encourages employers to hire veterans through its Hire Veterans Program, which assists employers in recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans, and provides resources and incentives for hiring veterans. Additionally, New York offers vocational rehabilitation and employment services for veterans, including vocational assessment, job training, placement assistance, and support for veterans with disabilities. These state initiatives collectively aim to provide veterans' preferences in public employment, offer specialized employment services, promote veteran hiring by employers, and provide vocational rehabilitation and employment support to veterans in New York.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • The New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the New York State and Local Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the New York State and Local Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: NYSLRS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a NYSLRS 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 New York State and Local Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact NYSLRS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in New York.

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 Discounted Highway or Toll Programs

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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