Massachusetts provides a range of benefits for its veterans, encompassing housing, financial, educational, employment, and recreational services:
Housing Benefits
- Soldiers’ Homes: Veterans have access to soldiers’ homes in Holyoke and Chelsea, offering residential and long-term care.
- Homeless and Transitional Housing: The state funds nonprofit organizations that offer housing services to eligible veterans, including emergency shelters and single-room occupancy quarters across various locations.
Financial Benefits
- Tax Exemptions: Veterans may be eligible for property tax exemptions ranging from $400 to $1,500, with specific eligibility criteria like a minimum 10% disability rating from the VA. Additionally, motor vehicle sales and excise tax exemptions are available for disabled veterans under certain conditions.
- Annuities: A $2,000 annual annuity is provided to 100% disabled veterans, their spouses, Gold Star Parents, and un-remarried spouses.
Employment Benefits
- State Employment Preference: Veterans receive preference in civil service exams, including additional points for disabled veterans and certain priority for promotional exams and appointments.
Educational Benefits
- Tuition Waivers: Veterans are eligible for tuition waivers for state-supported courses at public colleges or universities. The Massachusetts National Guard Education Assistance Program offers a 100% tuition and fee waiver for members attending state colleges, universities, or community colleges.
- Veterans Upward Bound Program: Free pre-college programs are available at UMass Boston and Suffolk University, providing veterans with college and career awareness and academic skills required for higher education.
Recreational Benefits
- Licenses and State Park Access: Active-duty, non-resident military personnel stationed in Massachusetts are eligible for hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates. Also, parking fees at state parks are waived for vehicles bearing disabled veteran license plates from any state.
Veterans’ Bonuses
Massachusetts offers bonuses for veterans who served during specific periods, including the Persian Gulf War, Vietnam Conflict, Korean War, and World War II, with varying bonus amounts based on service details and location.
Chapter 115 Benefits
The Chapter 115 Benefits Program provides financial aid to veterans and their dependents who have limited income, covering daily living expenses, medical costs, rent assistance, and more.