Missouri Veteran Benefits

Missouri honors its veterans through a comprehensive array of benefits and resources. For veterans with disabilities, the state provides comprehensive support spanning financial assistance, educational opportunities, housing and employment assistance, recreational benefits, burials and memorials, tax incentives, and access to VA resources within the state. These benefits may change over time. Please check with the individual state's veterans assistance office for the most current state benefit information. Below is a detailed breakdown of these benefits:

Missouri Veteran Financial Benefits

  • Property Tax Exemptions: Missouri offers property tax exemptions to certain disabled veterans and their spouses. Eligibility criteria include a service-connected disability rating of 100% or total blindness.

  • Financial Assistance Program: The Missouri Veterans Commission administers financial assistance programs for veterans facing emergency situations, including homelessness or financial crises.

  • Military Service Credit: Veterans employed in certain public sector jobs in Missouri may be eligible to purchase up to four years of credit toward their retirement for their military service.

Recreation Benefits

  • State Park Admission: Missouri provides free admission to state parks for veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 60% or higher.

  • Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans may be eligible for discounted or free hunting and fishing licenses in Missouri. Specific benefits vary based on disability rating and service-connected status.

  • Recreational Facilities Access: Some recreational facilities in Missouri offer discounted or free access to veterans and their families.

Education Programs

  • Missouri Returning Heroes Education Act: This program provides educational fee assistance to eligible combat veterans who served after September 11, 2001, and their dependents.

  • Veterans Upward Bound: Offered by various colleges and universities in Missouri, this program assists veterans in preparing for postsecondary education through counseling, tutoring, and academic instruction.

  • College Credit for Military Experience: Many educational institutions in Missouri offer credit for military training and experience, reducing the time and cost required to earn a degree.

Housing and Employment

  • Missouri Veterans Home Loans: The Missouri Housing Development Commission offers low-interest home loans to eligible veterans, helping them achieve homeownership.

  • Veterans Preference in Employment: State agencies and certain private employers in Missouri provide preference in hiring and promotion to veterans and their spouses.

  • Job Training and Placement Services: The Missouri Division of Workforce Development offers job training, placement, and counseling services specifically tailored to veterans' needs.

Burials and Memorials

  • Missouri Veterans Cemeteries: The state operates several veterans cemeteries providing burial options for eligible veterans and their dependents.

  • Headstone and Marker Benefits: Veterans buried in private cemeteries in Missouri may be eligible for government-provided headstones or markers to honor their service.

  • Memorial Programs: Various organizations and communities in Missouri host memorial events and programs throughout the year to honor veterans' sacrifices.

Tax Incentives

  • Income Tax Exemption: Military retirement benefits and survivor benefits received by veterans are exempt from Missouri state income tax.

  • Property Tax Exemptions: Certain disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemptions on their primary residence in Missouri.

  • Vehicle Registration Fee Waiver: Disabled veterans with certain qualifications may be eligible for a waiver of vehicle registration fees in Missouri.

VA Benefit Resources in Missouri

  • Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC): MVC offers a range of services, including benefit claims assistance, counseling, and advocacy for veterans and their families.

  • VA Medical Centers: Missouri is home to several VA medical centers and clinics providing healthcare services to eligible veterans.

  • County Veterans Service Officers: Each county in Missouri has a Veterans Service Officer who assists veterans with accessing federal and state benefits and resources.

Missouri stands as a stalwart supporter of its veterans, offering a multitude of benefits and resources to honor their service and sacrifice. From financial assistance to educational opportunities, housing support, and beyond, the state ensures that veterans receive the recognition and support they deserve. For veterans residing in Missouri, these state-specific benefits serve as a testament to the state's gratitude and commitment to those who have served. For disabled Veterans seeking VA compensation or additional benefits, consultation with us at ForTheVeteran can offer expert guidance.

How can we help?

We are deeply understand VA Disability Benefits and work closely with you to get you all the benefits you're owed. Our team includes veterans and their families who understand the sacrifices you've made. We know how military service can affect your health, and our goal is to make sure you get the benefits you deserve.