New York Veteran Benefits

New York offers a wide range of benefits to veterans to recognize and honor their service. These benefits span financial assistance, educational opportunities, housing support, employment assistance, recreational activities, burial and memorial arrangements, tax incentives, and additional state-specific resources. This guide is designed to provide veterans with a comprehensive overview of the benefits available in New York. 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 York Veteran Financial Benefits

  • Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Eligible veterans in New York can receive a property tax exemption, with specific components for combat and service-connected disabilities.

  • Blind Annuity: Legally blind wartime veterans and their surviving unremarried spouses are eligible for a $1,110 annual annuity.

  • Gold Star Annuity: Gold Star Parents, who have lost a child in military service, are eligible for a $500 annual annuity.

  • Supplemental Burial Allowance: The state provides a burial allowance of $4,000 to the families of military members or veterans whose deaths occurred in combat or from combat-related injuries.

  • State Veterans' Trust Fund: This fund provides financial assistance to veterans and their families for emergency needs, such as medical bills, rent, or other unexpected expenses.

Recreation Benefits

  • New York State Parks Pass: Disabled veterans with a 40% or higher disability rating are eligible for the "Lifetime Liberty Pass," granting free access to state parks, historic sites, and other recreational facilities.

  • Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Disabled veterans can receive a free fishing and hunting license, while non-disabled veterans can receive a discount.

  • Golf Courses: Veterans can play golf at state-owned courses at discounted rates or for free if disabled.

  • Free Transportation on Veterans Day: Active-duty military personnel and veterans can use the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) system for free on Veterans Day.

  • Veterans' Camping: New York State offers free camping for veterans with a 40% or higher disability rating, allowing them to enjoy the outdoors at various state campgrounds.

Education Programs

  • Veterans Tuition Awards (VTA): The state offers VTAs for degree-granting programs, vocational training, and certificate courses. It covers up to 98% of tuition costs for full-time or part-time studies.

  • Regents Awards for Children of Veterans: This provides up to $450 per academic year for children of deceased or disabled veterans.

  • Veterans' Education Training: NYS DVS provides career counseling, resume building, and job placement support to help veterans transition to the civilian workforce.

  • Veterans' Career Counseling: The NYS Department of Labor's Veterans' Program offers dedicated career counselors to help veterans with job searches and employment services.

  • New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) Benefits: This agency provides additional educational resources and financial aid programs tailored to veterans and their families.

Housing and Employment

  • Veterans Home Loan Program: The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers mortgage assistance with lower interest rates and other benefits for veterans purchasing homes.

  • Veterans Preference for State Jobs: Veterans receive additional points on civil service exams, increasing their chances of obtaining state employment.

  • Veterans Housing Grants: The NYS Division of Veterans' Services provides grants to organizations that support veterans' housing needs.

  • Homeless Veterans Services: New York offers transitional and supportive housing for homeless veterans through various state and non-profit programs.

  • New York State Civil Service Examination Fees Waived: Veterans are exempt from paying fees for state civil service exams, providing them with a financial advantage when seeking state employment.

Burials and Memorials

  • New York State Veterans Cemeteries: New York has three state-owned veterans' cemeteries, providing burial with full military honors.

  • Military Funeral Honors: The state coordinates military funeral honors, including flag presentations and bugler performances, for deceased veterans.

  • Memorials and Monuments: New York has several memorials dedicated to veterans, including the New York State Military Museum and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza in New York City.

  • Veterans Headstones and Markers: Eligible veterans are entitled to a government-provided headstone, marker, or medallion to honor their service, even if they are not buried in a veterans' cemetery.

  • Free Burial Flag: The state provides a free U.S. flag to drape over the casket or accompany the urn during a veteran's burial or memorial service.

Tax Incentives

  • Income Tax Exemptions for Military Pay: Active-duty military members residing in New York do not have to pay income tax on military pay received while deployed overseas.

  • Veterans Employment Credit: Employers hiring veterans in New York are eligible for a tax credit under the "Hire-a-Vet" program.

  • Disabled Veterans Business Program: Disabled veteran business owners receive state contract preferences and tax benefits through the New York State Office of General Services.

  • Tax Exemption for Veterans' Pensions: New York exempts veterans' pensions from state income tax, providing additional financial relief for veterans.

  • Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Veterans with a service-related disability can receive an additional property tax exemption, depending on the level of disability.

VA Benefit Resources in New York

  • New York State Division of Veterans' Services (NYS DVS): This agency helps veterans apply for federal and state benefits, file claims, and address other veteran-related concerns.

  • Veterans Crisis Line: A 24/7 confidential helpline for veterans in crisis or distress, accessible by dialing 988 and pressing 1, or via text or chat.

  • Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs): Several VSOs in New York offer resources and support for veterans, including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

  • New York VA Medical Centers and Clinics: Veterans can access healthcare services at various VA medical centers and clinics throughout the state, including specialized programs and counseling.

  • County Veterans Service Agencies: Each county in New York has a Veterans Service Agency providing personalized support for veterans seeking state and federal benefits.

New York State offers a robust array of benefits to veterans, recognizing their service and sacrifices. From financial aid to educational opportunities, recreational benefits, and dedicated housing support, New York's veteran community can access resources that significantly impact their quality of life. This guide serves as a starting point, but veterans are encouraged to contact the New York State Division of Veterans' Services and other relevant agencies to explore additional benefits tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. 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.