Takes 15% off your home's assessed value for wartime service, another 10% for combat-zone service, plus half your disability rating (with local caps). Applies to municipal and school taxes, but not special levies.
Who qualifies
Wartime or expeditionary-medal veteran who owns the home as a primary residence. This is a local option, so check that your town, county and school district offer it.
How to apply
File Form RP-458-a with your municipal assessor.
Deadline
Usually March 1 (the taxable status date); confirm with your assessor.
NEW: full property tax exemption at P&T (local option)
100% P&TProperty tax
Municipalities and school districts may now fully exempt a P&T veteran's primary residence from property taxes, special levies and assessments, for rolls with taxable status dates on or after Oct 1, 2026.
Who qualifies
Veteran the VA considers permanently and totally disabled from service (the VA letter must say so) who meets the alternative-exemption rules. Only applies where it has been adopted locally.
Military retired pay received by retired service members is exempt from New York State, New York City, and Yonkers income taxes. Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Military pay received by an active duty service member serving in an area designated as a combat zone is exempt from New York taxes. The deadline for filing a New York State income tax return and paying any tax due, or filing an amended return to request a refund is automatically extended for at least 180* days after: the last day serving in a combat zone or a contingency operation, or; the last day of hospitalization because of an injury suffered while serving in a combat zone or contingency operation; *Any days of the previous tax filing period that were remaining when a service member…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Deadline
The deadline for filing a New York State income tax return and paying any tax due, or filing an amended return to request a refund is automatically extended for at least 180* days after: the last day serving in a combat zone or a contingency operation, or; the last day of hospitalization because of an injury suffered while serving in a combat zone or contingency operation; *Any days of the previou
Military disability retirement pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include: Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their families; Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living; Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or; Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program; See for more information.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of U.S. Armed Forces service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York State Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities
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SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not taxed in New York.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York Special Military and Veteran Vehicle License Plates
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New York offers 53 military and Veteran distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members, and certain family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply. New York State law requires custom license plate applicants to pay two different fees, an initial fee when ordering a custom plate and an annual fee when renewing a vehicle registration. Most vehicle registrations in New York State are issued for two years. All applications, required documents and payment can be mailed to: New York…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply.
New York Congressional Medal of Honor License Plate
Any veteranVehiclesSource-checked
Recipients of the Medal of Honor are eligible for the New York Congressional Medal of Honor license plates. There are no fees for this license plate, and it cannot be personalized. Applicants must provide official documentation as proof they were awarded the Medal of Honor when they apply. In addition, applicants must provide a completed to be eligible for a registration fee exemption.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Applicants must provide official documentation as proof they were awarded the Medal of Honor when they apply.
Recipients of the Purple Heart are eligible for New York Purple Heart license plate. Veterans must provide their DD214, Certification of Military Service (NA FORM 13038), or other official documentation as proof they received the Purple Heart. There is an initial custom plate fee of $28.75, no annual plate renewal fee and they may be personalized. Personalized plates have an additional $60 personalization fee and a $31.25 annual renewal fee. In addition to mail-in applications this license plate may be ordered online (select the block that says “Order a Purple Heart (Vehicle) custom plate…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York offers the Disabled Veteran license plate to Veterans who have a New York license plate with the universal symbol of access. There is an initial custom plate fee of $28.75, no annual plate renewal fee and it cannot be personalized. Veterans are required to provide a copy of their DD214 when they apply. Veterans who do not have a license plate with the universal symbol of access must also provide a completed at the time of application.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Veterans are required to provide a copy of their DD214 when they apply. Veterans who do not have a license plate with the universal symbol of access must also provide a completed at the time of application.
Veterans who served in the U.S. Army are eligible for the New York U.S. Army Veteran license plate. Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214, Certification of Military Service (NA FORM 13038), or discharge papers that indicate they served in the U.S. Army. There is an initial custom plate fee of $38.75, no annual plate renewal fee and plates may be personalized. Personalized plates have an additional $70 personalization fee and a $31.25 annual renewal fee. In addition to mail-in applications this license plate may be ordered online (select the block that says “Order a U.S. Army Veteran…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York offers the Gold Star Mother license plates to mothers of service members who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Applicants must provide official documentation stating their child died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. There is an initial custom plate fee of $28.75, no annual plate renewal fee and it cannot be personalized.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
The Experience Counts campaign, strives to reform state licensing and higher education systems to recognize military experience more effectively as service members transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian life. As part of these reforms, Veterans can now apply their military experience toward obtaining various licenses and certifications. Some of the licenses covered under the campaign include: Advanced emergency medical; Armed security guard; Bus driver; Certified first responder; Crane operator; Emergency medical; Home health aide; Home nurse aide; Licensed…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
As part of these reforms, Veterans can now apply their military experience toward obtaining various licenses and certifications. Some of the licenses covered under the campaign include: Advanced emergency medical; Armed security guard; Bus driver; Certified first responder; Crane operator; Emergency medical; Home health aide; Home nurse aide; Licensed radiological technologist; Personal care; Security guard; Tractor trailer operator; Truck driver; For more information or assistance please contac
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Military and Veterans Benefits
40%+Outdoors & parksSource-checked
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation offers several benefits to Veterans and service members. Free Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses for Resident Service Members: New York resident service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces stationed outside New York who are home on leave for 30 days or less are eligible to free hunting, fishing or trapping licenses. New York resident service members serving in the New York National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves (stationed in or living in New York) are also eligible. Service members are required to…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Service members are required to provide the following: Military ID card; Completed ; Leave paperwork that indicates duty station outside New York and leave for 30 days or less (for active duty service members); certificate (if applicable); Service members can apply online at the or in person at any . Reduced Fee Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses for Disabled Veterans: New York resident Veterans who have a 40% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA are eligible for: Fishing,
New York State Lifetime Liberty Pass for Veterans and Surviving Family Members
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The Lifetime Liberty Pass is available free to eligible New York Veterans and surviving family members. The Lifetime Liberty Pass authorizes discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the , and the . Lifetime Liberty Pass benefits includes: Free entrance of a single vehicle to state historic sites and arboretums; Discounted campsite and cabin rental; Discounted transient marina dockage; Free swimming, tennis, cross-country skiing, and greens fees; The pass holder must be present when using the pass. For a complete listing of benefits,…
Who qualifies
The Lifetime Liberty Pass is available to New York resident Veterans and surviving family members as follows: Veteran Eligibility: The following New York resident Veterans are eligible for the Lifetime Liberty Pass : Veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge other than dishonorable; Veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a less than honorable discharge for reasons related to sexual orientation or gender identity; Veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a less than honorable discharge for reasons related to Military Sexual Trauma (MST), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) ; Surviving Family Member Eligibility: The following New York resident surviving family members are eligible for the Lifetime Liberty Pass: Surviving spouse; Biological Parents, st
How to apply
Lifetime Liberty Pass benefits includes: Free entrance of a single vehicle to state historic sites and arboretums; Discounted campsite and cabin rental; Discounted transient marina dockage; Free swimming, tennis, cross-country skiing, and greens fees; The pass holder must be present when using the pass.
VTA offers awards for full-time and part-timestudy for eligible Veterans enrolled in an approved undergraduate or graduate degree programs, or an approved vocational training program in New York. Awards are granted up to the SUNY (State University of New York) tuition rates. Full-time study is defined as 12 or more credits per semester (or the equivalent) or 24 or more hours per week in a vocational training program. Part-time study is defined as at least three but fewer than 12 credits per semester (or the equivalent) or six to 23 hours per week in a vocational training program. VTA can…
Who qualifies
To be eligible, Veterans must meet the following requirements: Legal resident of New York and lived in New York for 12 continuous months prior to the beginning of the term; U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen; Graduated high school in the U.S., earned a high school equivalency diploma, or passed a federally approved ; Veteran who served a minimum of four years of active-duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an other than dishonorable discharge, or; Veteran who served in combat or the combat theaters of Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, or Afghanistan, and received an other than dishonorable discharge; Reserve component service members are eligible if they served on active duty and were deployed for four or more years, or if they have served in combat, and were awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, or Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal; Meets good academic s
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
The New York State MERIT Scholarship provides financial aid to the children, spouse and financial dependents of service members who were serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or the New York National Guard and died, became severely and permanently disabled in the line of duty, or were declared missing in action (MIA). MERIT is also available to resident Veterans who become severely and permanently disabled as a result of injury or illness that occurred in the line of duty. MERIT awards cover tuition for up to four years of full-time undergraduate study (exceptions apply for five year programs)…
Who qualifies
For a Veteran or their dependents to be eligible the Veteran must meet the following requirements: New York resident while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or New York National Guard; Died or became severely disabled* in the line of duty; Declared missing in action; *Severely disabled means to be permanently disabled and unable to work, as determined by a doctor. Student eligibility requirements: Enrolled as a full-time student taking 12 or more credits per semester at an approved postsecondary institution in New York; Graduated high school in the U.S., earned a high school equivalency diploma, or passed a federally approved ; Be in good academic standing; Not be in default on any state or federal student loan or on any repayment of state awards; Applicants must a complete and provide any required documentation to establish eligibility, the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
How to apply
MERIT awards cover tuition for up to four years of full-time undergraduate study (exceptions apply for five year programs) up to SUNY (State University of New York) tuition rates. Student eligibility requirements: Enrolled as a full-time student taking 12 or more credits per semester at an approved postsecondary institution in New York; Graduated high school in the U.S., earned a high school equivalency diploma, or passed a federally approved ; Be in good academic standing; Not be in default on
New York State Regents Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans (CDDV) Award
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The CDDV Award provides financial aid to students whose parent(s) served in the U.S. Armed Forces during specific times of military conflict, were disabled or declared missing in action, or a prisoner of war. This award is $450 per year.
Who qualifies
For the child of a Veteran to be eligible the Veteran must have served during a wartime period, be a current New York resident or was a New York Resident at the time of their death and must meet one of the following requirements: Died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces; Awarded a 40% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA; Declared missing in action or a prisoner of war; Eligible wartime periods: Afghanistan - September 18, 2001, through end of hostilities; Iraq - October 16, 2002, through end of hostilities; Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990, through end of hostilities; Vietnam/Indochina - December 22, 1961, through May 7, 1975; Korean Conflict - June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955; World War II - December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946; World War I – April 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918; Merchant Seaman during the period from December 7, 1941, through Augus
How to apply
Armed Forces; Awarded a 40% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA; Declared missing in action or a prisoner of war; Eligible wartime periods: Afghanistan - September 18, 2001, through end of hostilities; Iraq - October 16, 2002, through end of hostilities; Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990, through end of hostilities; Vietnam/Indochina - December 22, 1961, through May 7, 1975; Korean Conflict - June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955; World War II - December 7, 1941, through Decemb
Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation (RDVF) Scholarship Program
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The RDVF Scholarship Program provides undergraduate scholarships to Soldiers assigned to the 42 nd Infantry Division and descendants of RDVF members. Scholarship amounts have ranged from $500 to $5,000 based on available funding.
Who qualifies
Students must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible: Soldier currently assigned to the 42 nd Infantry Division and in good standing; A descendant of a current RDVF Veteran or Legacy Member: Descendants are defined as spouse, children, spouses of children, descendants and spouses, and all blood and adopted relatives and their spouses; ; An immediate Gold Star Family Member (mother, father, sibling, spouse, or child) of an Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, or more recent named operation Soldier who died while serving in the 42 nd Infantry Division; All applicants must be sponsored by a current RDVF Veteran or Legacy Member who is a paid-up lifetime member prior to the date of application. Applicants must complete the scholarship application and provide the following: A letter of nomination from their scholarship sponsor; Official high school transcripts a
How to apply
Students must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible: Soldier currently assigned to the 42 nd Infantry Division and in good standing; A descendant of a current RDVF Veteran or Legacy Member: Descendants are defined as spouse, children, spouses of children, descendants and spouses, and all blood and adopted relatives and their spouses; ; An immediate Gold Star Family Member (mother, father, sibling, spouse, or child) of an Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, or mor
New York State Operation Recognition, High School Diplomas for Veterans
Any veteranEducation
New York offers high school diplomas to Veterans who left high school before graduating to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, Veterans must meet the following requirements: New York resident; Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least one day; Was discharged under honorable conditions; The child or spouse of a deceased eligible Veteran may apply and accept a posthumous diploma on the Veteran's behalf. Applicants must provide official documentation to confirm dates of service and discharge status. DD214 (Department of Defense discharge form); Form WD AGO 53-55 (Enlisted Record and Report of Separation); Honorable Discharge Certificate; To apply applicants should take their official documentation to a New York state school that issues general or local diplomas. New York City Veterans should contact the New York State Education Department at adulted@nysed.gov for assistance. For more information, please call 518-474-8940 or email adulted@nysed.gov .
How to apply
Armed Forces for at least one day; Was discharged under honorable conditions; The child or spouse of a deceased eligible Veteran may apply and accept a posthumous diploma on the Veteran's behalf. DD214 (Department of Defense discharge form); Form WD AGO 53-55 (Enlisted Record and Report of Separation); Honorable Discharge Certificate; To apply applicants should take their official documentation to a New York state school that issues general or local diplomas.
U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point Post Cemetery
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The West Point Post Cemetery isAmerica’s oldest post cemetery and provides a serene, historic location for the burial of those eligible. Those buried in the cemetery include service members from as far back as the Revolutionary War, USMA Cadets, Medal of Honor recipients, astronauts, athletes, senior military officers and their families. The West Point Post Cemetery offers both in ground burials and placement of cremated remains in a columbarium niche. Next of kin may also request chapel services and Military Funeral Honors. Services and burials are scheduled on a first come, first served…
Who qualifies
Eligibility requirements for the burial include: Service member who graduated from the USMA, who was a U.S. citizen as a cadet and at the time of death Service member must have died in the line of duty or had been honorably discharged; Served during wartime in the armed forces of a foreign ally and died under honorable conditions; ; Current USMA cadets; Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who were assigned to the USMA at their time of death; Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who were assigned to the USMA when they retired; Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who were assigned to the USMA when they retired due to a physical disability; service members (who are not otherwise eligible) who die while assigned to the Medical Holding Detachment at Keller Army Hospital are not eligible; Officers appointed as a
How to apply
For more information, please contact the USMA Cemetery at West Point Memorial Affairs Office: West Point Military Academy Memorial Affairs Office Cemetery Responsible Official 329 Washington Road West Point, NY 10996 Email: memorialaffairs@westpoint.edu Phone: 845-938-2504 Please note the cemetery is located on an active military installation and has specific entry and identification requirements due to force protection measures. for more information regarding access please visit the .
Leave of Absence for New York State Veterans who are Public Employees to Continue Study
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New York public officers and employees, who served in the U.S. Armed Forces on or after January 31, 1955, are authorized a leave of absence for up to four years to continue their education or take a refresher or a retraining course. To be reinstated employees must apply for reinstatement within sixty days after the end of their course of study.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
To be reinstated employees must apply for reinstatement within sixty days after the end of their course of study.
New York State Career Centers offer free job search services to all jobseekers. Dedicated staff at New York Career Centers help assess an individual’s needs, skills, and interests and guide them through their job search. Career Centers have Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program Specialists (DVOPS) and Local Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVERS) who are dedicated staff members to specifically help Veterans and their spouses. DVOPS provide intensive case management services to Veterans with . They also provide a full range of employment Services, including comprehensive assessments,…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York State Public Employee Military Leave and Compensation for Reserve Component Service Members and Veterans
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New York State public employees who are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are authorized 22 workdays (30 calendar days) of military leave with full pay per calendar year. Military leave is authorized when a service member is ordered to state or federal active duty, this includes attendance at a service school, schools conducted by the U.S. Armed Forces or advanced training. In addition, the state will continue to provide family coverage under the state's health insurance plan, free for the period of federally ordered military duty (up to 12 months…
Who qualifies
New York state employees who are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces ordered to active duty or authorized training are eligible for military leave.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York State Civil Service, Veterans Hiring Preference
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New York offers Veterans’ preferencewhen hiring for state employment and promotio ns. Preference is given by adding additional credits on passing competitive examinations to Veterans. Disabled Veterans receive 10 points additional credit on open-competitive examinations and five points in promotion examinations. Non-disabled Veterans are granted five points in open-competitive examinations and two and one-half points in promotion examinations.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, Veterans must meet the following requirements: New York resident Veteran who served on active duty of the U.S. Armed Forces (other than for training purposes); Received an honorable discharge or will be honorably discharged at the time of appointment; Must have a 10% or more service-connected disability rating and receiving compensation from the VA (for disabled Veterans preference only)
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York State Veterans with Disabilities Employment Program (55-c)
10%+JobsSource-checked
Section 55-c of the New York State Civil Service Law authorizes 500 entry level positions to be filled with qualified wartime Veterans with disabilities. Eligible Veterans who meet the minimum qualifications for the position will not be required to take an initial written examination.
Who qualifies
To be eligible Veterans must have served on a full-time active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than for training) and received a Purple Heart or have a 10% or greater disability rating from the VA. Veterans must also have served during one of the following wartime periods: Vietnam War - February 28, 1961, through May 7, 1975; Hostilities in Lebanon - June 1, 1983, through December 1, 1987; Hostilities in Grenada - October 23, 1983, through November 21, 1983; Hostilities in Panama - December 20, 1989, through January 31, 1990; Hostilities in the Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990, through the date on which hostilities end; Veterans who received an Expeditionary Medal; To apply Veterans must submit a completed Application for New York State Governor’s Program to Hire Persons with Disabilities Under Sections 55-b and 55-c (submission instructions on the form), their DD214 and . The New York
How to apply
Veterans must also have served during one of the following wartime periods: Vietnam War - February 28, 1961, through May 7, 1975; Hostilities in Lebanon - June 1, 1983, through December 1, 1987; Hostilities in Grenada - October 23, 1983, through November 21, 1983; Hostilities in Panama - December 20, 1989, through January 31, 1990; Hostilities in the Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990, through the date on which hostilities end; Veterans who received an Expeditionary Medal; To apply Veterans must subm
New York State Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB)
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The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act allows eligible Veteran business owners to become certified as a New York SDVOB, with the goal of encouraging and supporting them to play a greater role in state contracting opportunities. New York has a 6% goal to include SDVOBs in state contracting.
Who qualifies
For businesses to qualify as a SDVOB they must meet the following requirements: One or more Veterans have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% and must own at least 51% of the business; Disabled Veteran(s) must have the authority to control day-to-day business decisions; Business must qualify as a small business in New York State; Business must maintain a significant business presence in New York State; Those eligible can apply for certification online using the Service-Disabled Veterans' Enterprise System, new users will be required to create an account at the . For more information, please contact the Division of Service-Disabled Veterans’ Business Development by phone at 518-474-2015, or by email at veteransdevelopment@ogs.ny.gov .
How to apply
For businesses to qualify as a SDVOB they must meet the following requirements: One or more Veterans have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% and must own at least 51% of the business; Disabled Veteran(s) must have the authority to control day-to-day business decisions; Business must qualify as a small business in New York State; Business must maintain a significant business presence in New York State; Those eligible can apply for certification online using the Service-Disabled
Veteran Designation on a New York State Photo Document
Any veteranJobsSource-checked
New York offers a Veteran designation on New York driver licenses, learner permits and non-driver photo ID cards for honorably discharged Veterans. There is no additional fee for the Veteran designation, all other regular transaction fees will apply. Veterans will be required to provide official documentation as proof they received an honorable discharge, please visit the “Learn more…” link below for a list of acceptable documentation. Veterans can apply at any , or by mail to: Standard Mail: License Production Bureau New York State DMV P.O. Box 2688 ESP Albany, NY 12220-0668 Express Mail:…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
There is no additional fee for the Veteran designation, all other regular transaction fees will apply. Veterans will be required to provide official documentation as proof they received an honorable discharge, please visit the “Learn more…” link below for a list of acceptable documentation.
New York State Thruway Authority, E-ZPass Disabled Veterans Non-Revenue Program
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The New York State Thruway Authority offers free, unlimited travel anywhere on the Thruway for disabled Veterans who have a fee-exempt vehicle registration for a specially adapted vehicle (see section above). Veterans must submit a completed and a copy of their fee-exempt vehicle registration to: New York State Thruway Authority Office of E-ZPass Operations P.O. Box 189 Albany, NY 12201-0189 Phone: 518-471-5848
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Veterans must submit a completed and a copy of their fee-exempt vehicle registration to: New York State Thruway Authority Office of E-ZPass Operations P.O.
New York has five State Veterans’ Nursing Homes that provide quality care to eligible Veterans and their dependents who require skilled nursing care and rehabilitative services. New York State Veterans’ Homes Locations: 17850 Linden Boulevard Jamaica, NY 11434 Phone: 718-990-0300 220 Richmond Avenue Batavia, NY 14020 (adjacent to the VA Medical Center) Phone: 585-345-2000 4211 State Hwy. 220 Oxford, NY 13830 Phone: 607-843-3100 100 Patriots Road Stony Brook, NY 1179-3300 Phone: 631-444-VETS (8387) 2090 Albany Post Road Montrose, NY 10548 Phone: 914-788-6000
Who qualifies
All applicants must require skilled nursing care and meet the following requirements: Veteran Eligibility: Entered active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces from New York, or was a New York resident for one year prior to application; Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 30 days and received an honorable discharge; Spouse and Unremarried Surviving Spouse of a Veteran Eligibility: Spouse of an eligible Veteran, if married for one year prior to application; if the Veteran dies, the spouse may continue to stay at the Veterans Home; Unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased eligible Veteran, if married for one year prior to the Veterans death; Unremarried surviving spouse of a service member who died on active duty (30 day active duty requirement does not apply); Parent of a Veteran Eligibility: Mothers and fathers of a service member who died while serving on activ
How to apply
Armed Forces from New York, or was a New York resident for one year prior to application; Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 30 days and received an honorable discharge; Spouse and Unremarried Surviving Spouse of a Veteran Eligibility: Spouse of an eligible Veteran, if married for one year prior to application; if the Veteran dies, the spouse may continue to stay at the Veterans Home; Unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased eligible Veteran, if married for one year pr
The New York Veterans Speaker Program maintains a pool of Veterans who can be invited as speakers to supplement classroom instruction concerning a particular era in American Military History. Interested Veterans are required to complete a short application and interview with the New York Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS). Once approved, Veterans will become part of the DVS speaker’s pool. To request a speaker application please contact the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services at DVSInfo@veterans.ny.gov with the subject line ‘Veterans Speaker Program'
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Interested Veterans are required to complete a short application and interview with the New York Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS). To request a speaker application please contact the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services at DVSInfo@veterans.ny.gov with the subject line ‘Veterans Speaker Program'
The New York Gold Star Families Annuity is a semi-annual payment to eligible family members of a U.S. Armed Forces service member who dies while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who qualifies
The following family members of a service member who died in the line of duty are eligible for the New York Gold Star Families Annuity: All applicants must live in and be a legal resident of New York State; Surviving spouse or domestic partner, remarriage does not affect eligibility; Children, stepchildren, and legally adopted children who meet one of the following criteria: Under age 18; Age 18–23 and enrolled in school; Incapable of self-support due to a disability that began before age 18; ; Biological parent, stepparent, or parent through adoption; Applicants will be required to provide the following: Completed Application for Gold Star Family Annuity form; Evidence of military service of the deceased Veteran, such as DD1300 (Report of Casualty) or a copy of the telegram from the U.S. Department of Defense confirming death of the service member; Proof of New York State residency, suc
How to apply
The following family members of a service member who died in the line of duty are eligible for the New York Gold Star Families Annuity: All applicants must live in and be a legal resident of New York State; Surviving spouse or domestic partner, remarriage does not affect eligibility; Children, stepchildren, and legally adopted children who meet one of the following criteria: Under age 18; Age 18–23 and enrolled in school; Incapable of self-support due to a disability that began before age 18; ;
The New York Cold War Certificate may be awarded to Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Cold War. Certificates may be awarded posthumously to a designated survivor of a deceased Veteran. No more than one certificate may be awarded per eligible Veteran.
Who qualifies
Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible: Served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Cold War from September 2, 1945, through December 6, 1991; Current New York State resident or was a New York State resident at the time of qualifying service; Received an Honorable Discharge or General Discharge, Under Honorable Conditions; Applicants will be required to submit a completed application and the Veterans Report of Separation (WD AGO Form 53-55, DD214, or NGB Form 22, etc.). Applications and documentation may be submitted by email to ng.ny.nyarng.list.mnp-awards@army.mil , or by mail to: Division of Military and Naval Affairs ATTN: MNP-AWD 330 Old Niskayuna Road Latham, NY 12110-3514 For more information, please call 518-786-0468.
How to apply
Armed Forces during the Cold War from September 2, 1945, through December 6, 1991; Current New York State resident or was a New York State resident at the time of qualifying service; Received an Honorable Discharge or General Discharge, Under Honorable Conditions; Applicants will be required to submit a completed application and the Veterans Report of Separation (WD AGO Form 53-55, DD214, or NGB Form 22, etc.).
Veterans, and their spouses or co-borrowers, need not be a first-time homebuyer; Interest rates are 0.375% lower than SONYMA standard interest rates; Down payment assistance up to the greater of $3,000 or 3% of the home purchase price, up to $15,000; No points or origination fees; Minimum borrower cash contribution only 1%;
Who qualifies
Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible and do not need to be first time homebuyers. The following applicants must be first time homebuyers: Active duty U.S. Armed Forces service members stationed in New York; Active or honorably discharged National Guard service members; Active or honorably discharged U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members; To apply for a SONYMA loan Veterans must contact a .
How to apply
Armed Forces Reserve service members; To apply for a SONYMA loan Veterans must contact a .
The Blind Annuity Program pays annuities to legally blind wartime Veterans or a deceased Veteran’s surviving spouse.
Who qualifies
To be eligible Veterans must be legally blind (20/200 vision in the better eye with best correction or has 20-degree limitation of field of vision) and meet the following requirements: New York State resident; Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during a (or received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal) for at least 90 days, unless discharged earlier due to a service-connected disability; Blindness does not have to be service-connected; Unremarried surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran; Applicants must provide proof of legal residence, Veteran’s discharge paperwork, a completed and a to: New York State Department of Veterans' Services 2 Empire State Plaza, 17 th Floor Albany, NY 12223
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York offers surviving family members of a service member who died as a result of service in a combat zone a Supplemental Burial Allowance of up to $6,000. This money is used to pay for funeral and burial costs not covered by the federal government.
Who qualifies
For the service member’s family to be eligible the service member must have been a New York State resident at the time of their death, or a New York National Guard Service member who died after being called to active service. The service member’s death must have been under the following circumstances: Died in a combat zone; Died while receiving hazardous duty pay; Died from wounds sustained in a combat zone or while receiving hazardous duty pay; To apply for the Supplemental Burial Allowance, family members must complete and submit copies of all required documentation (listed on the application). Completed applications and supporting documentation can be emailed to DVASupplementalBurialAllowance@veterans.ny.gov or mailed to: New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Attn: Supplemental Burial Allowance 2 Empire State Plaza, 17 th Floor Albany, NY 12223 For more information, please c
How to apply
The service member’s death must have been under the following circumstances: Died in a combat zone; Died while receiving hazardous duty pay; Died from wounds sustained in a combat zone or while receiving hazardous duty pay; To apply for the Supplemental Burial Allowance, family members must complete and submit copies of all required documentation (listed on the application).
The New York Incarcerated Veterans Program is designed to address the readjustment and reentry needs of Veterans returning to society following incarceration. The goal of the program is to: Help incarcerated Veterans become aware of their entitlements, benefits, and available community resources; Help verify Veteran status; Provide counseling to address service-related problems; Assist Veterans to successfully reintegrate back into the community upon release; For more information, please call 888-838-7697.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
New York Vendors’ License for Veterans who Served Overseas
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Veterans who served overseas in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge other than dishonorable and their surviving spouses are eligible for a free lifetime Veterans vendor’s license. This license provides Veterans and surviving spouses the right to vend and sell goods, wares, merchandise, or solicit trade on the highways within a specific jurisdiction. For more information and to apply Veterans should contact their County Clerk’s Office. Please note this license does not supersede any restrictions placed by cities, towns, or villages. An additional no-fee license may be necessary…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
For more information and to apply Veterans should contact their County Clerk’s Office.
The New York Department of Veterans’ Services can help to restore access to state Veterans benefits to Veterans who received an Other Than Honorable Discharge, or a General, Under Honorable Conditions Discharge due to certain conditions. This determination does not change a Veteran’s official character of discharge on their discharge paperwork. This determination refers only to a Veteran's character of discharge to qualify for New York State benefits.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, Veterans must have received an Other Than Honorable Discharge or a General, Under Honorable Conditions Discharge due to any of the following: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); Traumatic brain injury (TBI); Military sexual trauma (MST); Sexual orientation; Gender identity; For more information or questions please email generalcounsel@veterans.ny.gov or RestoreVetHonor@veterans.ny.gov . Applications and any required documentation (listed on the application) can be emailed to RestoreVetHonor@veterans.ny.gov or mailed to: New York State Department of Veterans’ Services ATTN: Appellate Unit 245 West Houston Street, Suite 4W59.30 New York, NY 10029
How to apply
Applications and any required documentation (listed on the application) can be emailed to RestoreVetHonor@veterans.ny.gov or mailed to: New York State Department of Veterans’ Services ATTN: Appellate Unit 245 West Houston Street, Suite 4W59.30 New York, NY 10029
New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) FreshConnect Checks
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The New York DVS Veterans Benefits Advisors offer FreshConnect Checks to active duty service members, Veterans, their immediate family members, as well as unremarried surviving spouses of Veterans. These checks may be used to purchase produce and other food items at participating farmers markets throughout New York State. Veterans Benefits Advisors issue FreshConnect Checks on a first-come, first-served basis, generally between July through December. Only one booklet of checks is offered per household. For more information, please call 888-838-7697 or visit a DVS Veterans Services Office .
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
For more information, please call 888-838-7697 or visit a DVS Veterans Services Office .
The New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes offers a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members. The cemetery provides a burial plot, opening and closing of the grave, a government provided grave marker (including installation) and perpetual care.
Who qualifies
Service members, Veterans or their family members must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible for burial at the New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes: Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or; Died while serving on active duty, or; Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except death occurred before age 60), or; Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify); Spouse and dependents of an eligible Veteran or service member (burial of dependent children are limited to unmarried children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a child who develops a lifelong disability
How to apply
Armed Forces Reserves and qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except death occurred before age 60), or; Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify); Spouse and dependents of an eligible Veteran or service member (burial of dependent children are limited to unmarried children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a child who develops