Veterans in North Dakota have access to a variety of state benefits, ranging from financial aids to recreational privileges. Here’s an overview of some of the key benefits available:
Financial Benefits
- Income Taxes: Both active-duty and reservist pay for North Dakota residents is tax-free starting from the 2023 tax year. Retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments are also tax-free.
- Veterans Aid Fund: Offers loans up to $5,000 for veterans and surviving spouses who haven’t remarried.
- Property Tax Deduction: Veterans with a VA disability rating of at least 50% are eligible for property tax deductions, with the deduction amount increasing with higher disability percentages.
Employment and Education
- Veterans Preference: In state employment, veterans are given preference, with a 5-point preference for veterans and a 10-point preference for disabled veterans.
- Educational Training (VET): A free program for honorably discharged North Dakota veterans preparing for certification programs or college degrees.
- Tuition Waivers: Dependents of veterans who were killed in action or died from service-connected causes, or were totally disabled due to service-connected causes, can attend North Dakota state schools without paying tuition or fees.
Recreational Benefits
- State Park Fees: Veterans with a 50% or greater VA disability and former POWs are eligible for a free annual permit to ND state parks. Other veterans with service-related disabilities can receive an annual permit for $20.
- Fishing and Hunting Licenses: Disabled veterans can obtain reduced cost licenses, and active-duty North Dakota residents can hunt and fish without a license while on leave.
Housing and Transportation
- Veterans Home: Located in Lisbon, it’s available for honorably discharged North Dakota veterans and their spouses, with costs based on income.
- Travel for VA Appointments: County Veteran Service Offices offer transport for veterans to medical facilities in Fargo and Ft. Meade, SD, free of charge.
Additional Supports
- Service Dogs: Grants are available for PTSD service dogs for veterans residing in North Dakota.
- License Plates: A variety of veteran-designated license plates are available, offering benefits such as parking privileges in handicap spots.
Tax Exemptions and Credits
- Property Tax Credit: For veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater, offering significant reductions based on the level of disability.
- Income Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: Allows nonresident military spouses to be exempt from North Dakota state taxes under specific conditions.