Delaware offers a range of benefits to veterans, including educational support, financial assistance, employment opportunities, housing programs, and recreational discounts.
Educational Benefits
- Delaware Veterans Home: Available for veterans who were Delaware residents for at least one year before applying, served at least 180 days on active duty, and require nursing home level care.
- Children of Deceased Veterans: Eligible children of military members who died on active duty or from related diseases can receive up to four years of free college education.
- Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance: Offers up to 100% tuition at state colleges/universities or the average of in-state tuition at private colleges/universities in Delaware.
Financial and Employment Benefits
- Pension for Paraplegic Veterans: A pension of $3,000 per year is available for paraplegic veterans.
- Income Tax Exemptions: Military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are partially tax-free.
- State Employment Veterans Preference: Provides additional points for disabled veterans and other eligible veterans applying for state jobs.
Housing and Loan Programs
- Delaware State Housing Authority Preferred Plus Home Loan: Assists borrowers, including veterans, in purchasing a primary residence.
- First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit and Transfer Tax Break: Offers tax credits and refunds under certain conditions to qualifying first-time homebuyers, including veterans.
Recreational Benefits
- State Park Admission: Active duty members or veterans with honorable discharge receive a 50% discount on the annual fee for vehicle entrance to state parks and recreational areas.
- Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Discounts and special rates are available for active-duty members stationed in Delaware and disabled veterans.
Other Benefits
- Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: Eligibility for burial in state veterans cemeteries is similar to national veterans cemetery requirements and includes a residency requirement.
- Document and Notary Services for Veterans: Assistance with obtaining service-related documents and free notary services are available.