New Jersey Veteran Benefits

New Jersey holds a strong commitment to supporting its veterans, offering a comprehensive array of benefits and resources tailored to meet their needs. 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:

New Jersey Veteran Financial Benefits

  • Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Eligible veterans may receive an exemption of up to $250 in property taxes.

  • Income Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Disabled veterans who were honorably discharged and have a service-connected disability may qualify for a complete exemption from state income tax on their military retirement pay.

  • Veterans Income Tax Exemption: Veterans who served during specific periods of conflict are eligible for a $3,000 exemption on their state income tax returns.

  • Property Tax Exemption for Gold Star Parents: Gold Star parents, who have lost a child in military service, are eligible for a full exemption from property taxes on their principal residence.

  • Income Tax Exemption for Medal of Honor Recipients: New Jersey exempts Medal of Honor recipients from state income taxes.

  • Reduced Fare Transportation: Veterans with a service-connected disability may be eligible for reduced fare transportation on NJ TRANSIT buses, trains, and light rail services.

Recreation Benefits

  • Free State Park Admission: Veterans with a service-connected disability rating from the VA are entitled to free admission to New Jersey state parks and forests.

  • Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability of at least 25% can obtain free hunting and fishing licenses.

  • State Park Camping Discounts: Veterans with a service-connected disability may receive discounts on camping fees at New Jersey state parks.

  • Free Admission to State Museums: Veterans with a service-connected disability can enjoy free admission to New Jersey state museums.

  • Discounted Golf for Disabled Veterans: Disabled veterans are eligible for discounted rates at New Jersey state-operated golf courses.

  • Free State Park Parking: Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability of at least 50% are entitled to free parking at New Jersey state parks.

Education Programs

  • New Jersey GI Bill: The New Jersey GI Bill provides eligible veterans with up to $750 per semester for full-time study or $375 per semester for part-time study at approved institutions.

  • Tuition Assistance for National Guard Members: National Guard members may be eligible for tuition assistance covering a portion of their tuition costs at New Jersey public colleges and universities.

  • Military Skills Waiver for College Credit: New Jersey colleges and universities may waive certain course requirements and grant college credit for military training and experience.

  • In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents: Veterans, as well as their spouses and dependents, may qualify for in-state tuition rates at New Jersey public colleges and universities.

  • Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program: The VR&E Program assists veterans with service-connected disabilities in achieving employment or enhancing their existing career through education or training.

Housing and Employment

  • Veterans' Haven North and South: These transitional housing programs provide homeless veterans with temporary shelter, supportive services, and assistance in obtaining permanent housing.

  • Veterans Preference in Public Employment: Veterans receive preference in public employment, with additional points added to their civil service examination scores.

  • Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC): The VBOC provides entrepreneurial development services, such as business training workshops and counseling, to veterans interested in starting or growing their own businesses.

  • Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP): HVRP offers employment assistance, job training, and supportive services to homeless veterans, helping them secure stable housing and gainful employment.

  • Veterans Hiring Preference in State Jobs: Veterans receive preference in state hiring, with eligible veterans granted additional points on civil service examinations.

Burials and Memorials

  • State Veterans Cemeteries: New Jersey operates three state veterans cemeteries where eligible veterans, their spouses, and dependent children can be interred.

  • Military Funeral Honors: The New Jersey National Guard provides military funeral honors, including the folding and presentation of the American flag and the playing of Taps, upon request.

  • Veterans Honor Program: New Jersey offers a Veterans Honor Program to provide dignified military funeral honors to eligible veterans upon request.

  • War Orphan Education Assistance: Children of New Jersey veterans who died in service or as a result of service-connected disabilities may be eligible for educational assistance under the War Orphan Educational Assistance Act.

  • Veterans Memorial Homes: New Jersey operates three Veterans Memorial Homes providing long-term care to eligible veterans, offering skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, and assisted living.

Tax Incentives

  • Tax Exemption for Combat Zone Service: Service members who served in a combat zone may qualify for a state income tax exemption.

  • Property Tax Exemption for Certain Disabled Veterans: Veterans with a service-connected disability rated 100% by the VA are eligible for a full exemption from property taxes on their principal residence.

  • Income Tax Deduction for Combat Pay: New Jersey allows a deduction for combat pay received by military personnel serving in designated combat zones.

  • Veterans Income Tax Credit: New Jersey offers a tax credit to eligible veterans and their surviving spouses who meet certain income requirements.

VA Benefit Resources in New Jersey

  • New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA): DMAVA serves as the primary state agency for veterans' affairs, offering a range of services and resources, including assistance with VA claims and benefits.

  • Veterans Service Offices: County-level veterans service offices provide assistance with VA benefits applications, claims, and appeals.

New Jersey stands as a beacon of support for its veterans, offering a robust set of state-specific benefits and resources. From financial assistance and recreational perks to educational opportunities and housing support, veterans in the Garden State are well-equipped to thrive after their military service. These benefits reflect the state's deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by its veterans and serve as a testament to its unwavering commitment to their well-being. 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.