Oregon Veteran Benefits

Oregon offers a comprehensive array of benefits and programs for veterans to honor their service and support their well-being. These benefits include financial assistance, recreational opportunities, educational programs, housing and employment support, burial and memorial arrangements, tax incentives, and other state-specific resources. This guide provides an in-depth overview of veteran disability benefits in Oregon, detailing various services and support systems available to veterans and their families. 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:

Oregon Veteran Financial Benefits

  • Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Oregon provides a property tax exemption to veterans with a 40% or higher service-connected disability rating. The exemption applies to the assessed value of their primary residence and varies based on the level of disability.

  • Oregon Veterans' Emergency Financial Assistance (OVEFA) Program: The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA) offers emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families in times of hardship, helping with costs like rent, utilities, or medical expenses.

  • Oregon Veterans' Aid Fund: This fund provides low-interest loans to eligible veterans for emergency financial needs, such as vehicle repairs or other unforeseen expenses.

  • Veterans' Preference for State Jobs: Oregon grants veterans additional points on state employment exams, giving them a hiring advantage when applying for state jobs. Disabled veterans receive an additional preference.

  • Veterans' Affairs Home Loans: Oregon's Department of Veterans' Affairs offers low-interest home loans for veterans seeking to purchase a home, refinance, or build. These loans are designed to be competitive with other home loan options.

Recreation Benefits

  • Free Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Oregon offers free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses to veterans with a 50% or higher disability rating. This allows veterans to enjoy Oregon's outdoor recreational activities without additional costs.

  • Oregon State Parks Discounts: Veterans with a 50% or higher disability rating receive free access to Oregon state parks, including free day-use passes and discounted camping rates. Other veterans may qualify for discounted rates.

  • Veterans' Appreciation Days: Oregon hosts various veterans' appreciation events throughout the year, offering free or discounted admission to veterans, including during state fairs, museums, and other public events.

  • Veterans' Camping Discounts: Veterans with a 50% or higher service-connected disability rating are eligible for discounted camping rates at Oregon state parks and recreational areas, providing opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.

  • Free Boating Licenses: Oregon offers free boating licenses to veterans with a 50% or higher disability rating, allowing them to navigate Oregon's lakes and rivers without additional licensing fees.

Education Programs

  • Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program: This program provides tuition assistance to members of the Oregon National Guard pursuing higher education at Oregon public colleges and universities. The program covers up to 100% of tuition costs.

  • Veterans' Dependent Educational Assistance Program: This program provides educational assistance to eligible dependents of veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating or those who died due to military service. It covers tuition costs at Oregon public institutions.

  • Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) in Oregon: This program offers entrepreneurship training, counseling, and resources for veterans interested in starting or expanding a business. The VBOC provides mentorship, workshops, and business development resources.

  • Veterans Resource Centers at Oregon Colleges: Several Oregon public colleges and universities have dedicated veterans resource centers that offer support services, counseling, and assistance with accessing educational benefits.

  • Oregon In-State Tuition for Veterans and Family Members: Oregon grants in-state tuition rates to veterans, active-duty personnel, and their dependents at Oregon public colleges and universities, regardless of residency status, reducing the cost of higher education.

Housing and Employment

  • Oregon Veterans' Home Loans: Oregon's Department of Veterans' Affairs provides low-interest home loans for veterans, offering competitive rates and flexible terms to help them purchase or refinance a home.

  • Veterans' Preference for State Jobs: Oregon grants additional points to veterans on state employment exams, providing a hiring advantage when seeking state employment. Disabled veterans receive even greater preference.

  • Veterans' Employment Assistance: Oregon's Department of Veterans' Affairs provides employment support to veterans, including job search assistance, resume building, and job placement services.

  • Veterans' Housing Assistance: Oregon offers various programs for veterans seeking affordable housing, including down payment assistance and rental assistance for veterans experiencing homelessness or financial hardship.

  • Oregon Veterans' Homes: Oregon operates two state veterans' homes in Lebanon and The Dalles, providing long-term care services to eligible veterans. These homes offer nursing care, basic health care, and specialized care for veterans with dementia or other cognitive disorders.

Burials and Memorials

  • Oregon State Veterans Cemeteries: Oregon has two state veterans cemeteries in Eagle Point and The Dalles, where eligible veterans can receive burial with full military honors, including a burial flag and government-provided headstone. Eligible spouses and dependents can also be buried in these cemeteries.

  • Military Funeral Honors: Oregon coordinates military funeral honors for veterans, including flag presentations and the playing of Taps. These honors are managed through the Oregon National Guard and other military organizations.

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

  • Veterans' Burial Assistance: Oregon provides financial assistance to help cover burial costs for eligible veterans, easing the financial burden on their families during a difficult time.

  • Veterans' Memorials and Monuments: Oregon is home to various memorials dedicated to veterans, including the Oregon World War II Memorial in Salem and the Oregon Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Portland. These sites offer places to honor and remember those who served.

Tax Incentives

  • Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Oregon provides a property tax exemption for veterans with a 40% or higher service-connected disability rating. This exemption reduces the taxable value of their primary residence, resulting in a lower property tax burden.

  • Military Retirement Pay Tax Exemption: Oregon does not tax military retirement pay, providing financial relief for retired veterans residing in the state.

  • Employer Tax Credits for Hiring Veterans: Oregon offers tax credits to employers who hire veterans, encouraging veteran employment within the state.

  • Income Tax Deduction for Veterans' Benefits: Oregon allows an income tax deduction for various veterans' benefits, such as disability compensation and other payments from the VA.

  • Military Pay Exemption for Active-Duty Personnel: Active-duty military personnel stationed in Oregon are exempt from state income tax on military pay, providing a tax advantage to those serving in the state.

VA Benefit Resources in Oregon

  • Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA): This state agency provides guidance and support to veterans in applying for state and federal benefits, as well as assistance with claims and other veteran-related concerns.

  • Veterans Administration Medical Centers and Clinics: Oregon has several VA medical centers and clinics, providing healthcare services to veterans. These facilities offer a range of medical services and specialized care for veterans with disabilities.

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

  • County Veterans Service Offices: Each county in Oregon has a Veterans Service Office, providing personalized support for veterans seeking state and federal benefits.

  • Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs): Oregon has a network of VSOs, including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), offering resources and support for veterans.

Oregon's commitment to its veterans is evident through the extensive range of benefits and services it provides. From financial assistance to educational opportunities, recreational activities, housing support, and comprehensive burial and memorial arrangements, veterans in Oregon have access to a wide array of resources. 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.