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West Virginia Military and Veteran Benefits

State Taxes Education Benefits Employment Benefits Unemployment Insurance Division of Motor Vehicles Benefits Health and Insurance Benefits Parks and Recreation Benefits Miscellaneous Benefits U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in West Virginia West Virginia Military Resource Locator Resources

Summary of West Virginia Military and Veteran Benefits: West Virginia offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including state tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, special vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Service Offices: The West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance has Service Offices located throughout the state that can assist Veterans, and their families find and apply for benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.

Learn more about West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Service Offices

State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility

What are my West Virginia Military and Veteran State Tax Benefits?

West Virginia Taxes on Military Pay: West Virginia offers the following reductions in state incometaxes for West Virginia resident service members.

If a service member’s home of record is West Virginia, but they did not spend more than 30 days in West Virginia, the service member is not considered a resident for tax purposes and is not subject to state income tax on their military income.

Military pay received by West Virginia resident service members serving in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who are called to federal active duty to serve during Operation Enduring Freedom or during domestic security ordered by the President is exempt from West Virginia income taxes.

Combat or hazardous duty pay that is excluded from federal taxes is also excluded from West Virginia taxes.

Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for 30 or more days who permanently separate from service and receive a DD214 are eligible for an income tax deduction of their military pay for the year of their discharge. West Virginia Taxes Code 11-21-12e West Virginia Tax Division Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about West Virginia Taxes on Military Pay

West Virginia Income Taxes on Military Retired Pay: West Virginia does not tax military retired pay.

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. West Virginia Code 11-21-12

Learn more about West Virginia Income Taxes on Military Retired Pay

Nonresident Military Spouses West Virginia State Tax Exemption: Income earned by a nonresident spouse of a nonresident service member stationed in West Virginia is exempt from West Virginia income taxes. Which Nonresident Military Spouses are Exempt from West Virginia State Taxes? Nonresidentspouses are exempt if the service member is living in West Virginia due to military orders and they are in West Virginia to be with the service member.

Learn more about Nonresident Military Spouses West Virginia State Tax Exemption

West Virginia State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Military Disability Retirement Pay: 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 payments considered disability benefits include:

See IRS Publication 525 for more information.

Learn more about West Virginia State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Military Disability Retirement Pay

West Virginia State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.

Learn more about West Virginia State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

West Virginia State Tax Exemption on Military Survivor Benefit Plan, (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan, (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: West Virginia does not tax SBP, RCSBP or RSFPP annuities.

Learn more about West Virginia State Tax Exemption on Military Survivor Benefit Plan, (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan, (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities

West Virginia Homestead Disabled Veteran Property Tax Credit: Beginning 1 January 2024, honorably discharged disabled Veterans who have a 90% or greater combined disability rating from the VA are eligible for an income tax credit for the amount they paid on property taxes for their residence.

Veterans are required to apply for the credit with their county tax assessor prior to October 1. Veterans are still required to pay their property taxes (by October 1 and April 1) and will receive the credit when they file their personal income taxes. If a Veteran owns several properties, the credit will only apply to the property where they primarily live.

For more information, please call a West Virginia Taxpayer Services Representative at 304-558-3333, or 800-982-8297. West Virginia Property Tax Assessor Directory West Virginia Code 11-13MM-4 West Virginia Department of Revenue, Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit Fact Sheet

Learn more about West Virginia Homestead Property Tax Exemption for Resident Permanent and Total Disabled Veterans

West Virginia Tax Benefit for Service Members Killed or Missing during Service in a Combat Zone: Service members who die while serving in a combat zone, or from wounds, disease, or injuries they received while serving in a combat zone will not owe taxes for the year of their death.

Service members who are declared missing in action are also eligible for this tax exemption. The date they were listed as missing is their date of eligibility. Service members continue to be eligible until they are returned to U.S. control, or until two years after the official end of hostilities.

Learn more about the West Virginia Tax Benefit for Service Members Killed or Missing during Service in a Combat Zone

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veteran Education Benefits?

West Virginia Medal of Honor and the Andrew J. Trail Purple Heart Tuition Waiver: All state supported institutions of higher education will waive tuition and mandatory fees for Veterans who have been awarded the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart. Eligible Veterans can receive a waiver for up to eight semesters. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Tuition Waiver? To be eligible Veterans must be West Virginia residents, received either the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart and received an honorable discharge. Purple Heart recipients must also have either lost a limb or have a permanent disability from the wounds they received.

The waiver only applies after all other state and federal education benefits, grants or scholarships are used to pay tuition and mandatory fees. For more information students should contact the admission office at the educational institution they plan to attend. West Virginia Public Universities Directory West Virginia Community and Technical Colleges Directory West Virginia Code 18B-10-10

Learn more about the West Virginia Medal of Honor and the Andrew J. Trail Purple Heart Tuition Waiver

West Virginia Educational Encouragement Program (WVEEP): WVEEP pay 100% of tuition and fees up to $9,000 per fiscal year for West Virginia National Guard service members who are attending a participating West Virginia institution of higher education. This benefit may be used in addition to federal tuition assistance. Who is eligible for WVEEP?Service members must meet the following requirements:

WVEEP funds can only be used for tuition and allowable fees, students cannot keep any overpayment or refund. For more information, please email ng.wv.wvarng.list.education-office-wv@army.mil, or call 304-561-6361. WVEEP Online Application WVEEP Participating Schools

Learn more about the West Virginia Educational Encouragement Program

West Virginia Veterans Re-Education Assistance: West Virginia Veterans Re-Education Assistance program offers up to $500 per semester to Veterans for tuition assistance, tests for a professional license or certification, or other training materials. Tuition assistance is based funding availability. Who is eligible for West Virginia Re-Education Assistance? To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:

To apply, Veterans must submit a West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Veterans Re-education Assistance Application, DD214, proof of residency and proof of enrollment in a West Virginia institution of post-secondary education or training to:

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Office of the Cabinet Secretary 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East Building 5, Suite 205 Charleston, WV 25305 Phone:304-558-3661

Learn more about West Virginia Veterans Re-Education Assistance

West Virginia Tuition and Fees Waiver for Surviving Spouses and Children of Service Members Killed in the Line of Duty: West Virginia offers a tuition and fees waiver for surviving spouses and children of resident service members who were killed in the line of duty while serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S Armed Forces. Those eligible can receive a tuition and fees waiver for undergraduate courses at a state institution of higher education for up to 8 semesters or completion of a bachelor’s degree. Who is Eligible for the West Virginia Tuition and Fees Waiver for Surviving Spouses and Children of Service Members Killed in the Line of Duty? Those eligible must be the surviving spouse or child of a resident service member who was killed in the line of duty while serving on:

Students must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year and must maintain satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible. For more information students should contact the admission office at the educational institution they plan to attend. West Virginia Public Universities Directory West Virginia Community and Technical Colleges Directory West Virginia Code 18B-10-7

Learn more about the West Virginia Tuition and Fees Waiver for Surviving Spouses and Children of Service Members Killed in the Line of Duty

West Virginia War Orphan Education Program: Spouses and children of deceased resident wartime Veterans are eligible $1,000 per semester, and no more than $2,000 per year for matriculation fees, room and board, books, supplies, and other necessary living expenses. This amount fluctuates according to the number of applications received each semester. West Virginia Code 18-19 Who is eligible for the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance War Orphans Education Program? Applicants must meet the following requirements:

To apply, applicants must provide:

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, War Orphans Education Program Application

Enclose all documents in a single envelope and send to:

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Office of the Cabinet Secretary 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Building 5, Suite 205 Charleston, WV 25305 Phone: 304-558-3661

Learn more about the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance War Orphans Education Program

West Virginia Operation Recognition Diploma Program for Wartime Veterans: West VirginiaVeterans who left high school prior to graduation to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, Korea or Vietnam may be awarded a West Virginia high school diploma. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Operation Recognition Diploma Program for Wartime Veterans: To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:

Eligible Veterans should mail their completed application and a copy of their DD214 or discharge paperwork to:

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Office of the Cabinet Secretary 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Building 5, Suite 205 Charleston, WV 25305 Phone: 304-558-3661

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, High School Diploma Application West Virginia Code 18-2-34

Learn more about West Virginia Operation Recognition Diploma Program for Wartime Veterans

West Virginia In-State Tuition Rates for Nonresident Veterans, Service Members, and their Dependents: All public higher education institutions charge in-state tuition for nonresidents who are using VA education benefits and enroll within three years of their discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans must have served at least 90 days in the U.S. Armed Forces to be eligible.

In addition, nonresident service members and their dependents who are assigned to a duty location and living in West Virginia are eligible for in-state tuition and fee rates. West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, Residency Classification for Admission and Fee Purposes

Learn more about West Virginia In-State Tuition Rates for Nonresident Veterans, Service Members, and their Dependents

West Virginia Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) Higher Education Assistance for Veterans: VUB offers free assistance to Veterans to help them complete a certificate, diploma, or degree program.

VUB academic advisors assist Veterans with the following:

Who is eligible for the West Virginia VUB Higher Education Assistance for Veterans? To be eligible the Veteran must have ended their service in the U.S. Armed Forces in good standing, receive a modest income and/or neither of their parents earned a bachelor's degree. For more information, please call 304-637-1322.

Learn more about West Virginia Upward Bound Higher Education Assistance for Veterans

West Virginia Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3):The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by:

MIC3 Assistance Request

Points of Contact Phone: 304-561-6779 / 304-558-3119

Learn more about the West Virginia Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

West Virginia Purple Star Award for Military-Friendly Schools: The West Virginia Purple StarAward recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces. Schools that earn the award are issued an official certificate and additional electronic materials which can be displayed throughout their campus.

For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Award they must appoint a school liaison Who is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military families. This liaison will ensure that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military families can benefit from. Each school also has a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military families. Military Child Education Coalition, Purple Star School Program

Learn more about the West Virginia Purple Star Award for Military-Friendly Schools

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veteran Employment Benefits?

WorkForce West Virginia, Veteran Employment Assistance: Eligible Veterans receive priority inall employment and training programs, or services offered at WorkForce West Virginia locations that are funded with state or federal funds.

Veterans who meet eligibility requirements may be referred to Veterans’ program staff for specialized services. Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialists (DVOPS) offer intensive services to qualified Veterans to help them find long-term sustainable employment. Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVER) conduct outreach to employers to encourage them to hire Veterans.

Eligible Veterans have early access to job listings and other benefits such as:

Veterans and their spouses are asked to register on the WorkForce West Virginia webpage to determine eligibility. For more information please call 800-252-JOBS (5627), or visit the nearest WorkForce West Virginia Office. West Virginia Code 9A-4

Learn more about WorkForce West Virginia, Veteran Employment Assistance

West Virginia Veterans Hiring Preference for State Employment: Eligible Veterans can have upto 10 preference points added to their passing entrance exam scores, when applying for state employment.

Five points will be added to a final passing examination score of applicants who meet one of the following conditions:

An additional five points will be added to the final score of a Veteran who received a Purple Heart or has a service-connected disability. Award of the Purple Heart must be listed on the Veteran’s DD214.

Applicants claiming Veteran's Preference points must provide a copy of their DD214 and, if applicable, a VA Benefit Summary Letter, dated within the last six months, that indicates they are receiving compensation for a service-connected disability.

For more information or assistance please call the West Virginia Division of Personnel at 304-558-3950. West Virginia Division of Personnel Veterans Preference Points Calculator

Learn more about West Virginia Veterans Hiring Preference for State Employment

Federal Employment Veteran’s Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.

5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:

10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: Ten points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .

10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.

10-Point Disability Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:

10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of spouses, surviving spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a spouse (including surviving spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.

Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:

Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.

A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.

Learn more about Federal Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preferences

West Virginia Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Program: The West Virginia Veterans andHeroes to Agriculture program helps Veterans, service members and their families entering or currently working in agriculture, through partnerships with agencies, organizations, and farmers across the state. Members of the program receive opportunities for education, training, scholarships, and mentorship.

The Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Grant Program provides grants up to $24,000 to organizations that work directly with or provide support to law enforcement, fire fighters, emergency medical service, first responders, Veterans, active duty service members, and their families within an agricultural capacity. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Program? The following individuals are eligible for West Virginia Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Program benefits:

Grant, scholarship, and membership applications can be emailed to vetstoag@wvda.us, or mailed to:

West Virginia Department of Agriculture Business Development Division ATTN: Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture 217 Gus R Douglas Lane Charleston, WV 25312

For more information, please call the West Virginia Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Program Manager at 304-558-2210. West Virginia Code 19-1-12 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Membership Application West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Brochure West Virginia Department of Agriculture, Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Education and Training Scholarship Application West Virginia Heroes to Agriculture Grant Application

Learn more about the West Virginia Veterans and Heroes to Agriculture Program

West Virginia State Employee Leave for Military Service: State employees who are reserve component service members receive 30 days paid military leave for training and drills. When mobilized to federal active duty, an additional 30 days of paid military leave is provided each time they are mobilized. Employees may continue their State Employee Health Insurance while on state or federal active duty if they continue to pay required premiums. Service members who serve on active duty and receive an honorable discharge will be returned to the same or similar position without loss of pay, status, or efficiency rating. Who is eligible for West Virginia State Employee Leave for Military Service? National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who are State employees are eligible for military leave.

Learn more about West Virginia State Employee Leave for Military Service

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.

Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that anindividual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years Exceptions to the five-year limit, including initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.

Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.

Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning servicemembers are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.

Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected. Who is eligible for USERRA benefits?Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve or National Guard service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.

The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS), helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees. VETS Regional Office Locations

Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

West Virginia Hilton Military Honors Program: The Hilton Military Honors Program helps make the transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former service members. The Hilton Honors Military Program provides hotel accommodations for required travel while they are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to a total of 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities.

Applicants must have a Hilton Honors account to receive the points. Applicants can register for a Hilton Honors account on the Join Hilton Honors web page or by calling 800-HHonors (800-446-6677). Applicants must then visit their nearest WorkForce West Virginia Job Center and provide their rewards number, proof of eligibility and information to verify their job search activity. Staff will complete and submit the referral form. Once approved, applicants will receive an email from Hilton indicating they can begin using their points. National Association of State Workforce Agencies, Hilton Honors Military Program

Learn more about West Virginia Hilton Military Honors Program

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veteran Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

West Virginia Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI benefits provide temporary financial assistance to workers unemployed through no fault of their own. To qualify for UI, applicants must have West Virginia wages during the previous 12 to 18 months and earned at least the minimum amount required, based on West Virginia guidelines. Applicants must be able and available for work each week they are collecting benefits.

Applicants should have the following information prior to filing a claim:

To file for unemployment benefits claimants can use the WorkForce West Virginia, Unemployment Compensation Web Application, at the nearest WorkForce West Virginia Office, or by calling 800-252-Jobs (5627).

Any copies of required documentation can be emailed to uiinitialclaim@wv.gov, or mailed to:

Initial Claims Unit 1900 Kanawha Boulevard E, Building 3, Suite 3 Charleston, WV 25305

WorkForce West Virginia Claimant Handbook

Learn more about West Virginia Unemployment Insurance

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veterans Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits?

Veteran Designation on West Virginia Driver's Licenses and ID Cards: Veterans honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces may request a Veteran designation on their West Virginia driver's license or ID Cards.

To apply Veterans must complete the West Virginia Application for Driver’s License or ID Card, and provide a copy of one of the following documents:

Veterans must apply at a West Virginia DMV Regional Office. There is no charge if the Veteran designation is the only transaction. West Virginia Code 17B-2-1

Learn more about Veteran Designation on West Virginia Driver's Licenses and ID Cards

West Virginia Driver’s License Extension and Renewal for Military Personnel: The driver's license of a service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces is extended until six months after they are separated under honorable circumstances from active duty.

Service members also have the option of renewing their West Virginia driver’s license online at the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles online renewal webpage. For more information, please call 800-642-9066.

Learn more about West Virginia Driver’s License Extension and Renewal for Military Personnel

West Virginia Special Military and Veteran License Plates Provided Free to Veterans: Special military and Veteran vehicle license plates are provided free to the following Veterans:

All other Veteran plates are available for eligible Veterans for a one-time fee of $10 in addition to regular license fees.

Learn more about West Virginia Special Military and Veteran License Plates Provided Free to Veterans

West Virginia Special Military and Veteran License Plates: West Virginia offers 40 special military and Veteran license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of Veterans, retired service members, service members and family members. The West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance must certify all special military and Veteran license plate applications. Official documentation is required to prove eligibility for each specific license plate. West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Online Contact Webpage West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Service Office Directory

Learn more about West Virginia Special Military and Veteran License Plates

West Virginia Medal of Honor License Plate: West Virginia offers the Medal of Honor license plate to Medal of Honor recipients. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Medal of Honor License Plate? Applicants must be a recipient of the Medal of Honor. Contact the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles for an application. West Virginia, Division of Motor Vehicle Contact information

Learn more about the West Virginia Medal of Honor License Plate

West Virginia Purple Heart License Plate: West Virginia offers the Purple Heart license plate to Purple Heart recipients. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Purple Heart License Plate? Applicants must have been awarded the Purple Heart. This license plate can be kept by the Veteran’s unremarried surviving spouse until non-renewal, or death. West Virginia Purple Heart License Plate Application

Learn more about West Virginia Purple Heart License Plate

West Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate: West Virginia offers the West Virginia Disabled Veteran license plate to eligible disabled Veterans. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate? Veterans who have a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating from the VA, or a grant for a specially adapted vehicle are eligible. This license plate can be kept by the Veteran’s unremarried surviving spouse until non-renewal, or death. West Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate Application

Veterans who are mobility impaired can apply for the West Virginia Disabled Veteran Mobility Impaired license plate . These Veterans are required to have a licensed physician to certify their West Virginia Disabled Veteran Mobility Impaired License Plate Application .

Learn more about the West Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate

West Virginia Veteran License Plate: West Virginia offers the Veteran license plate to Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This license plate can be issued for passenger cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Who is eligible for West Virginia Veteran License Plate? Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible. This license plate can be kept by the Veteran’s unremarried surviving spouse until non-renewal, or death. West Virginia Veteran License Plate Application

Learn more about the West Virginia Veteran License Plate

West Virginia Gold Star Family License Plate: West Virginia offers the Gold Star Family license plate to families of U.S. Armed Forces service members who are killed in the line of duty. Who is eligible for the West Virginia Gold Star Family License Plate? Family members eligible for the Gold Star Family license plate include:

West Virginia Gold Star Family License Plate Application

Learn more about the West Virginia Gold Star Family License Plate

West Virginia Commercial Driver License (CDL) Even Exchange Program: The West Virginia Even Exchange Program authorizes service members who have certain Military Occupational Specialties or Ratings in the U.S. Armed Forces to use their military experience and training to meet CDL qualification requirements. Service members must have worked in one of the following Military Occupational Specialties or Ratings:

For more information, or for a personal evaluation of eligibility, applicants may send a request by email to dmvlicenseissuance@wv.gov, or by mail to:

Even Exchange PO Box 17010 Charleston, WV 25317

Learn more about the West Virginia Commercial Driver License Even Exchange Program

West Virginia Vehicle Property Tax Exemption for Resident Service Members: ​ West Virginia resident service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who are stationed outside of West Virginia are eligible for a property tax exemption on one vehicle. For more information, and to apply service members should contact the County Assessor’s Office in their West Virginia county of residence. West Virginia Tax Division, County Assessors Directory

Learn more about West Virginia Vehicle Property Tax Exemption for Resident Service Members

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veteran Health and Insurance Benefits?

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance:The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component service members, and their families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:

Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance

TRICARE Reserve Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard service members) and their families who meet the following qualifications:

This plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a service member is not on active duty and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.

Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance

Compensation for West Virginia National Guard Service Members for Injury, Illness, Disability or Death While on State Active Duty: West Virginia pays for all necessary medical expenses for West Virginia National Guard service members who are injured or become ill while serving on state active duty. If that illness or injury prevents the service member from returning to their usual occupation the state continues to pay them until they can return to work. The state will also pay funeral and burial expenses if a service member dies while serving on state active duty, or as a result of state active duty.

In addition, the surviving spouse and children, receives compensation from the state if the service member dies from that injury or illness. Who is eligible for Compensation for West Virginia National Guard Service Members for Injury, Illness, Disability or Death While on State Active Duty? West Virginia National Guard service members who are injured, become ill, disabled, or die in the line of duty, while on serving state active duty are eligible.

Learn more about Compensation for West Virginia National Guard Service Members for Injury, Illness, Disability or Death While on State Active Duty

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?

Free Hunting and Fishing for West Virginia Resident Disabled Veterans and Prisoners ofWar: Eligible Veterans can hunt and fish in West Virginia for free. Veterans are required to file an application with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources to be eligible. Who is eligible Free Hunting and Fishing for West Virginia Disabled Veterans and Prisoners of War? To be eligible West Virginia resident Veterans must have received an honorable discharge and meet one of the following requirements:

Applications can be mailed to:

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance 300 Technology Drive, Suite 201 South Charleston, WV 25309

West Virginia Disabled Veterans and Former Prisoners of War Application for Hunting and Fishing Privileges

Learn more about Free Hunting and Fishing for Eligible West Virginia Disabled Veterans and Prisoners of War

Hunting or Fishing Licenses Not Required for West Virginia Resident Active Duty Service Members on Leave: Resident active duty service members are not required to have hunting, trapping, or fishing licenses when they are on leave. Service members must carry leave papers with them while they are hunting, trapping, or fishing. West Virginia Code 20-2-28

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West Virginia State Park Discounts for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members: Veteransand active duty service membersreceive a 10% discount at West Virginia State Parks for all lodge rooms, cabins, and campsites. Veterans and service members should use code Vets10* when making reservations and must present valid military ID or proof of eligibility at check-in.

Veterans and active duty service members can also receive 15% off greens fees at Pipestem, Twin Falls and Cacapon Resort State Park golf courses year-round. Veterans or service members must show a valid military ID at check in for tee time.

These discounts are not available at Stonewall Resort State Park. West Virginia State Parks, Online Reservation Webpage

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What are my West Virginia Military and Veteran Miscellaneous Benefits?

West Virginia Veterans Home: The West Virginia Veterans Home is a 125-bed facility,overlooking the Village of Barboursville, that serves as a convenient and comfortable home in time of need for Veterans. The Home is not a treatment facility and cannot care for Veterans in need of daily care or skilled assistance. Who is eligible for care at the West Virginia Veterans Home? Veterans must meet the following eligibility requirements:

The Home has a nursing department and a contact physician, but all medical treatment is provided by the VA Medical Center located in Huntington.

For more information and to apply Veterans can contact a West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Service Office or they can contact the Veterans Home directly.

West Virginia Veterans Home 512 Water Street Barboursville, WV 25504 Phone: 304-736-1027 Fax: 304-736-1093

Learn more about the West Virginia Veterans Home

West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility: The West Virginia Veteran's Nursing Facility is a 120-bedfacility located in Clarksburg, West Virginia. The facility includes a 20-bed unit for Alzheimer patients. Emphasis is placed on maintaining a warm, attractive, and comfortable facility for West Virginia Veterans who require skilled nursing home care. Who is eligible for care at the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility? To qualify for admission at the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility, the Veteran must have been a West Virginia resident for twelve consecutive months and must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or had active service in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces for at least twelve consecutive months. West Virginia Code 16-1B-4

For more information and to apply Veterans can contact a West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Service Office or they can contact the directly.

WV Veterans Nursing Facility One Freedoms Way Clarksburg, WV 26301 Phone: 304-626-1600

Learn more about the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility

West Virginia Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery:The Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery, located in Institute, West Virginia provides an honorable, dignified final resting place for service members, Veterans and their eligible family members.

Burial or interment services are available for an eligible Veteran at no cost, including a grave site or niche, opening and closing services, a pre-set crypt, a headstone or niche cover, and perpetual care. A $780 fee will be charged for the burial of an eligible spouse or child. Who is eligible for Burial at the West Virginia Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery? The West Virginia State Veterans Cemetery eligibility requirements are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:

All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery, Pre-Eligibility Application to establish eligibility prior to need. For questions, comments, or concerns please contact the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery:

Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery 130 Academy Drive Dunbar, WV 25064 Phone: 304-746-0026 Fax: 304-746-0146

Learn more about the West Virginia Veterans Cemetery

West Virginia John F. “Jack” Bennett Fund: The Jack Bennett Fund will pay to install grave markers for deceased Veterans whose family members or next-of-kin who do not meet VA Income limits.

Family members, licensed funeral directors or cemeteries may apply. Applicants are required to mail a completed application and documents as proof of eligibility (listed on the application) to:

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Office of the Cabinet Secretary 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Building 5, Suite 205 Charleston, WV 25305

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, John F. "Jack" Bennett Fund Application

Learn more about the West Virginia John F. “Jack” Bennett Fund

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in West Virginia

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in West Virginia: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.

Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in West Virginia

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in West Virginia: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in West Virginia. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.

Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in West Virginia

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Military Installations in West Virginia

Please see the West Virginia Military Resource Locator for additional information.

Active Duty:

There are no active duty installations in West Virginia

National Guard: West Virginia National Guard

West Virginia Army National Guard

West Virginia Air National Guard 167 th Airlift Wing 130 th Airlift Wing

U.S. Army Reserve (USAR): 99 th Readiness Division

Resources

West Virginia Legislature

West Virginia Code

Army National Guard Benefits

Air National Guard Benefits

West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance

West Virginia National Guard, Educational Encouragement Program

West Virginia Division of Natural Resources

West Virginia State Government Website

U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference

West Virginia Department of Transportation

Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, West Virginia

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory

Military State Tax Guide

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