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Ohio

State Population: 9,162,377
Veteran Population: 621,890

Education

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In Ohio, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits. The Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program offers tuition assistance to eligible Ohio National Guard members pursuing undergraduate studies at approved institutions. The Ohio War Orphans Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible children of deceased or severely disabled veterans, covering tuition and fees at eligible public institutions. Additionally, the Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund supports eligible children and spouses of safety officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, providing financial aid for tuition and fees at eligible public institutions. These state-funded education benefits aim to support veterans, National Guard members, and their families in their pursuit of higher education in Ohio. It is recommended to verify the details and check for any updates with the Ohio Department of Veterans Services for the most accurate and current information.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
    • The Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program allows Ohio National Guard members with qualifying time-in-service to apply for undergraduate scholarships to Ohio schools on the approved list to get 100% paid tuition. Those who choose other institutions may receive 100% of the “average tuition charges of all Ohio public universities.”
  • Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • Ohio War Orphans Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible children of deceased or severely disabled Ohio veterans. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition and general fees at eligible Ohio colleges and universities. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary for each program. We recommend contacting the Ohio Department of Higher Education or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Ohio 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.
  • 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. Military spouses must submit to a criminal record check if required. All licensing fees for temporary licenses are waived. Temporary licenses are valid for a period not to exceed 6 years. State agencies may instead issue a regular license to military spouses. State agencies shall issue licenses within 30 days of receipt of an application or, if a criminal records check is required, within 14 days of having received the results of said check.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
    • No

Business Benefits

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Ohio provides resources and programs to support veteran-owned businesses. The Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS) provides information and assistance to veteran business owners, connecting veterans with resources, benefits, and programs available in the state. The Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) offer business counseling, training, and resources for veteran entrepreneurs, providing guidance on business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, access to capital, and government contracting opportunities. Ohio also has Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) that assist veteran-owned businesses in navigating the government procurement process. 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 Ohio Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise (VBE) Program is designed to promote veteran-owned businesses in the state by providing certification and recognition for veteran-owned businesses, leading to enhanced business opportunities. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Ohio, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS) at https://dvs.ohio.gov/, the Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) at https://clients.ohiosbdc.ohio.gov/locations/, and the Ohio Development Services Agency at https://development.ohio.gov/. 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 Ohio for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
  • Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
    • State of Ohio's Veteran-Friendly Business Enterprise (VBE) Procurement Program
  • Business Resource and Education Programs
  • Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
    • - State Department: Ohio Department of Development
      - Program Types: Equity Capital Program (Funds) Loan Participation Program Collateral Support Program
      - Program Names: Ohio Growth Capital Fund Ohio Early Stage Focus Fund CDFI Lending Program Collateral Enhancement Program
      - Contact Information: [email protected]

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

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In Ohio, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can benefit from several state programs and initiatives. These include a property tax exemption on their primary residence for disabled veterans, an income tax exemption on military retirement pay and other benefits, home loan programs with competitive interest rates for eligible veterans and military members, and discounted hunting and fishing licenses. These programs aim to provide financial relief, tax exemptions, affordable housing options, and recreational opportunities to support the well-being and livelihoods of veterans and their families in Ohio. For specific eligibility requirements and detailed information, it is recommended to consult official sources such as the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Ohio Department of Taxation, or relevant state agencies.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • 100% disability status Ohio veterans are eligible to receive property tax exemptions on the first $50,000 of the assessed value of their primary residence. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
  • Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
    • Military retirement pay exempt
  • Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
    • Program Name: Short Term Financial Assistance for Ohio Veterans and their Families
      Program Description: Each County Veterans Service Office provides short-term financial assistance to Veterans and their Families. The amount and type of assistance varies according to the individual abilities of each county and may be used for payment of rent, mortgage, food, utilities, car payment or insurance.
      Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
      - Military Families
      - Surviving Families
      - Wounded / Injured

State Employment Programs

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In the state of Ohio, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits designed to support their employment endeavors. Ohio provides veterans' preference in public employment, giving eligible veterans additional points or priority in the hiring process for state government positions. The OhioMeansJobs program offers specialized services for veterans, assisting them with job search, skills assessment, resume building, and connecting them with employers seeking to hire veterans. To further bridge the gap between military and civilian employment, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services offers a Military Skills Translator tool, which helps veterans translate their military experience into relevant civilian job qualifications. Ohio also offers apprenticeship programs that provide on-the-job training and skill development, facilitating the transition to civilian careers. Moreover, the Ohio Veterans Homes provide employment opportunities exclusively for veterans in various roles within healthcare, administration, maintenance, and more. These state initiatives collectively work towards providing veterans' preferences, job search assistance, skill translation, apprenticeship opportunities, and employment options within the Ohio Veterans Homes, ensuring support and resources for veterans and military personnel in their pursuit of meaningful employment.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • The Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: OPERS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming an OPERS 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 Ohio Public Employees Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact OPERS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Ohio.
  • Offers Reduced Cost Business and Occupational Licenses or business taxes

State DMV Programs

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No summary available.

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
  • Offers Free or Discounted Firearms permit or license or exemptions