Webinar: Recruit and Retain Talent from the National Guard and Reserve

Watch the Replay >

Pennsylvania

State Population: 10,282,533
Veteran Population: 641,525

Education

MORE ▼
LESS ▲
In Pennsylvania, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits. The Pennsylvania National Guard Education Assistance Program (EAP) provides financial assistance for eligible National Guard members pursuing a degree at approved institutions. Additionally, the Pennsylvania National Guard Military Family Education Program (MFEP) offers grants and free tuition to the spouse and children of National Guard members based on specific criteria. There is also the Pennsylvania Post-9/11 GI Bill Educational Assistance Program for eligible veterans attending approved institutions. These state-funded programs aim to support the educational pursuits of veterans, National Guard members, and their families in Pennsylvania. To obtain accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility and program availability, it is recommended to contact the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs or visit their official website.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
  • Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
    • Pennsylvania State Veterans' Education Benefits Program. Under this program, eligible veterans may receive financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible Pennsylvania colleges and universities. The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. It's important to note that specific eligibility criteria and application processes may vary. We recommend contacting the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Pennsylvania 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.
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs or the Veterans Services Office at your chosen college or university in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.
  • Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
    • (State must recognize military spouse license if home state has equivalent training) State agencies shall issue licenses to licensees from other states (not limited to military spouses) in good standing with substantially equivalent education and training requirements. Applicants must demonstrate competence as determined by the state agency, such as through professional experience (for instance, professional experience for 2 of the last 5 years prior to application) or the completion of continuing education. Further, state agencies may issue temporary permits to applicants which allow the applicant to practice while completing the requirements for full licensure.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
    • No

Business Benefits

MORE ▼
LESS ▲
Pennsylvania provides resources and programs to support veteran-owned businesses. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) provides information and assistance to veteran business owners, connecting veterans with resources, benefits, and programs available in the state. The Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania also has several 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. Pennsylvania has legislation that provides preference to veterans in public employment, extending to business opportunities and contracts with state agencies.To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Pennsylvania, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) at https://www.dmva.pa.gov/, the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) at https://www.pasbdc.org/, and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development at https://dced.pa.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 Pennsylvania 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
  • Small Business Loan Program
    • Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Authority (PMBDA)
  • Offers State Funding opportunity or Financial Assistance
  • Business Resource and Education Programs
  • Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
    • - State Department: Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority
      - Program Types: Equity Capital Program (Funds) Loan Participation Program Equity Capital Program (Direct)
      - Program Names: PA-SSBCI Diverse Venture Loan Program PA-SSBCI Revolving Loan Fund Program PA-SSBCI Equity Capital Program
      - Contact Information: [email protected]

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

MORE ▼
LESS ▲
In Pennsylvania, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can benefit from several state programs and initiatives. These include a property tax exemption for disabled veterans on their primary residence, an income tax exemption for military pay, preferences in land sales for veterans, and the availability of veterans homes for long-term care and support services. These measures aim to provide financial relief, housing opportunities, and healthcare support to eligible individuals. It is recommended to consult official sources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for specific eligibility requirements and detailed information.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • Veterans earning under $92, 594 who are 100% disabled are eligible for full property tax exemption. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
  • Offers complete homestead property tax exemption for 100 percent disabled veterans and surviving spouses
  • Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
    • Military retirement pay exempt
  • Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
    • Program Name: The Pennsylvania Military Family Relief Assistance Program (MFRAP)
      Program Description: The Pennsylvania Military Family Relief Assistance Program (MFRAP) provides financial assistance, in the form of grants, to eligible Pennsylvania service members and their eligible family members. Eligible members must have a direct and immediate financial need as a result of circumstances beyond their control. The amount of a grant is based on documented financial need up to a maximum of $3,500.
      Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
      - Military Families
      - Surviving Families
      - Wounded / Injured

State Employment Programs

MORE ▼
LESS ▲
Pennsylvania offers several state employment programs, preferences, and benefits for veterans, guard members, and reserve members. First, the Pennsylvania Civil Service Act provides veterans with preferences in hiring for civil service positions, giving them an advantage in the selection process. Second, the Veterans' Employment Assistance Program (VEAP) by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs offers job search assistance, resume writing, and career counseling services. Additionally, Pennsylvania CareerLink provides specialized services for veterans, connecting them with job opportunities, training programs, and supportive services. Lastly, the state's Veterans' Preference in Public Works Employment program grants preferences to eligible veterans in public works projects, giving them priority in employment opportunities. These programs and preferences aim to support veterans and service members in their employment pursuits, ensuring they have access to meaningful job opportunities and successful career transitions.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • The Pennsylvania State Employees' Retirement System (SERS) provides provisions for military service credit for eligible members. Here are some key points about military service credit in the Pennsylvania State Employees' Retirement System: Eligibility: To be eligible for military service credit, you must be a member of the Pennsylvania State Employees' Retirement System and have served in the military. Types of Military Service Credit: SERS offers two types of military service credit: a. Vesting Credit: If you served in the military before becoming a SERS 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 Pennsylvania State Employees' Retirement System may vary. It's advisable to contact SERS directly for detailed information and personalized guidance regarding military service credit in Pennsylvania.

State DMV Programs

MORE ▼
LESS ▲
No summary available.

Recreation Programs

MORE ▼
LESS ▲
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

© 2023 VIQTORY | Military Friendly® is owned and operated by VIQTORY, a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. | VIQTORY, Military Friendly®, trademarks and logos are not affiliated with nor the property of the Department of Defense or any other federal agency. | The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.