New Mexico Veteran Benefits

New Mexico honors its veterans with a range of state-specific benefits tailored to support 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 Mexico Veteran Financial Benefits

  • Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Eligible veterans may receive a property tax exemption of up to $4,000 on their primary residence.

  • Income Tax Exemption for Military Pay: Active duty military personnel stationed in New Mexico are exempt from state income tax on their military pay.

  • Veterans' Reintegration Assistance: Veterans seeking employment or undergoing job training may be eligible for financial assistance through the Veterans' Reintegration Program.

  • Emergency Financial Assistance: The New Mexico Veterans' Services Department offers emergency financial assistance to veterans facing unforeseen financial hardships.

  • Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses: Surviving spouses of veterans who died on active duty or as a result of service-connected disabilities are eligible for a property tax exemption on their primary residence.

  • Income Tax Exemption for National Guard and Reserve Pay: Members of the National Guard and Reserve components residing in New Mexico are exempt from state income tax on their military pay for drills and annual training.

  • Financial Assistance for Homeless Veterans: The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services offers financial assistance and supportive services to homeless veterans, helping them secure housing and employment.

  • Veterans Small Business Loan Program: The New Mexico Economic Development Department offers low-interest loans to veteran-owned small businesses, providing financial support for entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Recreation Benefits

  • Free State Park Admission: New Mexico offers free day-use entry to all state parks for veterans and active duty military personnel.

  • Disabled Veterans Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability of 50% or more can obtain free hunting and fishing licenses.

  • Discounted Camping Fees: Veterans with a service-connected disability are eligible for discounted camping fees at New Mexico state parks.

  • State Monument and Museum Admission: Veterans and their families receive free admission to New Mexico state monuments and museums.

  • Free Admission to Cultural Institutions: Veterans with a service-connected disability receive free admission to participating cultural institutions and events across New Mexico.

  • State Park Camping Discounts: Veterans and their families are eligible for discounted camping fees at New Mexico state parks, encouraging outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Education Programs

  • Veterans Resource Centers: New Mexico's colleges and universities host Veterans Resource Centers, providing support services, academic advising, and networking opportunities for veteran students.

  • Veterans' Higher Education Scholarship: The Veterans' Higher Education Scholarship awards financial assistance to New Mexico veterans pursuing higher education at a public post-secondary institution in the state.

  • Military Tuition Assistance Programs: New Mexico's colleges and universities offer tuition assistance programs for military service members, veterans, and their dependents.

  • Veterans Upward Bound Program: Veterans seeking to pursue postsecondary education can benefit from the Veterans Upward Bound Program, which provides academic support, tutoring, and assistance with college admissions.

  • Child Care Assistance for Student Veterans: Student veterans enrolled in higher education programs may be eligible for child care assistance through the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department, easing the burden of childcare expenses while pursuing their education.

Housing and Employment

  • Veterans Housing Rehabilitation and Modification Program: Qualified veterans may receive financial assistance for home repairs and modifications through this program.

  • Veterans' Business Preference: Veteran-owned businesses may receive preference in state procurement contracts and bidding opportunities.

  • New Mexico Veterans' Employment Representatives: These representatives provide specialized employment services to veterans, including job placement assistance and career counseling.

  • Housing Assistance Grants: Eligible veterans may receive grants from the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority to assist with down payments and closing costs when purchasing a home.

  • Employment Transition Assistance: The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions offers employment transition assistance to veterans, including job search workshops, resume assistance, and career counseling.

Burials and Memorials

  • State Veterans' Cemetery: New Mexico operates a state veterans' cemetery in Santa Fe, providing burial services for eligible veterans, their spouses, and dependent children.

  • Veterans' Memorials: The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services oversees the maintenance and preservation of veterans' memorials throughout the state.

  • Veterans' Funeral Honors: Upon request, eligible veterans are entitled to military funeral honors, including the folding and presentation of the American flag and the playing of Taps.

  • Burial Plot Allowance: Veterans who are buried in a state veterans' cemetery may receive a burial plot allowance to help cover funeral and interment expenses.

  • Veterans' Memorial Plaza: Albuquerque's Veterans' Memorial Plaza serves as a tribute to New Mexico's veterans, featuring monuments, memorials, and commemorative plaques honoring their service and sacrifice.

Tax Incentives

  • Income Tax Deduction for Military Retirees: Military retirees residing in New Mexico can deduct up to $8,000 of their military retirement pay from state income tax.

  • Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Veterans with a service-connected disability rated at 100% by the VA may qualify for a full property tax exemption on their primary residence.

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

  • Income Tax Deduction for Military Retirees' Health Insurance Premiums: Military retirees can deduct up to $2,500 of their health insurance premiums from state income tax.

  • Property Tax Exemption for Service-Connected Disability Equipment: Veterans with a service-connected disability may qualify for a property tax exemption on equipment used to accommodate their disability, such as wheelchairs or mobility aids.

  • Income Tax Credit for Employer Hiring Veterans: Employers who hire veterans may be eligible for a tax credit equal to 10% of the wages paid to the veteran during their first year of employment.

VA Benefit Resources in New Mexico

  • New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (DVS): DVS provides a wide range of services, including assistance with VA benefits claims, educational programs, and employment resources.

  • New Mexico VA Health Care System: The New Mexico VA Health Care System provides a wide range of medical services to eligible veterans, including primary care, specialty care, and mental health services.

  • Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office: Located in Albuquerque, the Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office assists veterans with VA benefits claims, appeals, and inquiries.

  • Veterans' Resource Centers: Community-based veterans' resource centers throughout New Mexico offer assistance with accessing VA benefits, employment services, and referrals to other supportive resources.

New Mexico stands as a supportive and appreciative state for its veterans, offering a comprehensive array of state-specific benefits and resources. From financial assistance and recreational privileges to educational opportunities and housing support, veterans in New Mexico are well-served by the state's commitment to their well-being. These benefits underscore the state's gratitude for the sacrifices made by its veterans and affirm its dedication to their continued success and prosperity. 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.