Ohio Military and Veterans Benefits

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

Summary of Ohio Military and Veterans Benefits: Ohio offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including Veterans' burial benefits, employment assistance, public employment preference, compensation for state active duty, Ohio War Orphans and Severely Disabled Veterans Scholarship Program, special vehicle license plates, as well as hunting, fishing license and state park privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status. 

Ohio Department of Veterans Services, County Veterans Service Offices: The Ohio Department of Veterans Services, County Veterans Service Offices have trained Service Officers who can assist Veterans and their Families find and apply for benefits under federal, state and local laws. All services are provided free of charge.
Ohio Department of Veterans Services, County Veterans Service Offices Directory
Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Online Contact Page

Learn more about the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, County Veterans Service Offices

Ohio Welcomes You

Ohio Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility

What are my Ohio Military and Veteran State Tax Benefits?

Military Pay Income Tax Deduction for Resident Service Members Stationed Outside Ohio: U.S. Armed Forces Service members serving on active duty and stationed outside Ohio can deduct their military pay from Ohio Income taxes (military pay must be included in federal adjusted gross income). In addition, they are not required to pay Ohio school district income tax. This includes the portion of military pay received by resident Service members stationed in Ohio when they are on temporary duty (TDY) outside of Ohio.

Learn more about Military Pay Income Tax Deduction for Resident Service Members Stationed Outside Ohio

Ohio Income Tax Deduction for Military Retired Pay:Military retired pay can be deducted from Ohio Income taxes.

Learn more about the Ohio Income Tax Deduction for Military Retired Pay

Ohio Income Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)/ Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP)/ grieving widowRetired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP): SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not taxed in Ohio.

Learn more about Ohio Income Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)/ Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP)/ Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP)

Military Disability Retirement Pay Ohio Income Tax Exemption: 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 Disabled Veteran with prostetic legbenefits 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

Learn more about Ohio Military Disability Retirement Pay Income Tax Exemption

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Ohio Income Tax Exemption (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of military 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 Ohio State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Ohio Disabled Veteran Homestead Property Tax Relief: Veterans who have a 100% disability rating from the VA are eligible for expanded Homestead Exemption property tax relief on their primary residential home. Eligible Veterans can exempt $50,000 of the assessed value of their primary residential home from property taxes.
Who is eligible for the Ohio Disabled Veteran Homestead Property Tax Relief? To be eligibleVeterans must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and have a service-connected 100% disability rating, or a total disability rating for compensation based on individual unemployability.

An unremarried Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran can claim this exemption if they meet the following requirements:

  • Surviving Spouse of a Veteran who was receiving the homestead exemption during the year they died
  • Occupied the homestead at the time of the Veteran’s death
  • Acquires ownership of the homestead or continues to occupy the homestead (in a housing cooperative)

Ohio Revised Code 323.152

Applications must be filed through the county auditor in the county where the home is located.
Ohio Directory of County Auditors
Homestead Exemption Application for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses
Ohio Disabled Veterans Homestead Exemption Brochure

Learn more about the Ohio Disabled Veteran Homestead Property Tax Relief

Ohio Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: A nonresident Spouse who has the same state of residence as a nonresident Service member, who is stationed in Ohio under military orders, is exempt from Ohio income taxes on wages earned in Ohio. In addition, a nonresident Spouse is exempt from the Ohio School District Tax.

Learn more about the Ohio Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses

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What are my Ohio Military and Veterans Education Benefits?

High School Diplomas for Ohio Wartime Veterans: Ohio school districts or city boards of education will award high school diplomas to Veterans who left high school before graduating to serve in World War II, the Korean War or Vietnam War. Diplomas can be awarded posthumously.
Who is eligible for High School Diplomas for Ohio Wartime Veterans?
Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

  • Left school prior to graduation to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
  • Left school prior to graduation due to Family circumstances and then entered the U.S. Armed Forces, and
  • Did not receive a diploma, and
  • Received an honorable discharge

Applications are available at County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs). CVSOs will process requests through the local school district or board of education.
Ohio Revised Code 3313.616
Ohio CVSO Office Locations

Learn more about High School Diplomas for Ohio Wartime Veterans

Ohio War Orphan and Severely Disabled Veterans’ Children Scholarship (WOS): The Ohio WOS offers tuition assistance to the Children of deceased or severely disabled Ohio Veterans, Service members declared missing in action (MIA), or a prisoner of graduation cap on top of a pile of moneywar (POW).

The application deadline is May 15 th of each year to be eligible for the following school year.

For the 2022- 2023 academic year, the amount of the scholarship is:

  • Public Universities and Community Colleges: 80% of tuition and general fees
  • Private institutions: $6,170 per year

The scholarship can be used to pay general and instructional fees only. Students are authorized tuition assistance for up to five academic years.
Who is eligible for the Ohio WOS?

Child Eligibility Requirements: To receive a scholarship, a student must be an Ohio resident, enrolled full-time in an undergraduate study program and pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree at an eligible Ohio college or university. Applicants must be between the ages of 16 and 24 to be eligible.

Veteran Parent Eligibility Requirements: The Veteran parent must meet the following requirements for their Child to be eligible:

  • Veteran parent is deceased, or declared a POW or MIA at time of application, or
  • Has a 60% or greater service-connected disability, or receiving VA benefits for a permanent and total non-service-connected disability, or
  • If the Veteran parent served only in the Ohio National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves, they must have been killed or permanently and totally disabled while at a scheduled training assembly, field training, or active duty for training of any duration, and
  • Entered the U.S. Armed Forces as a resident of Ohio, or
  • If the Veteran’s DD214 shows a place of entry or home of record other than Ohio, the Child must have five cumulative years of residency, one year prior to their application and four out of any 10 of the previous years

Applicants can apply online at the Ohio Department of Higher Education, Ohio WOS Electronic Application, or by submitting a hardcopy application and any required documentation (listed on the application) by mail or fax to:

War Orphans Program Manager
Ohio Department of Higher Education
Office of Financial Aid
25 South Front Street
Columbus, Ohio 43215-3414
Fax: 614-466-5866

All applicants must also submit a completed Ohio Department of Higher Education, WOS Student Acknowledgement Statement.
Ohio WOS Application

Learn more about the Ohio War Orphan and Severely Disabled Veterans’ Children Scholarship

Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program (ONGSP): ONGSP provides tuition assistance for eligible National Guard Service members pursuing a bachelor’s degree, associate degree, professional license or certification at a participating school in Ohio. The ONGSP will pay 100% tuition at all state funded public colleges and will pay 100% of the state average tuition of the public schools for private colleges that participate in the ONGSP. Service members who enlist for 3-5 years will receive 48 semester hours towards their degree and 96 semester hours if they enlist for 6 years. ONGSP will pay only after all available federal and Department of Defense educational assistance is applied toward tuition costs.
Who is eligible for ONGSP?Ohio National Guard Service members must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

  • Must enlist in the Ohio National Guard for a minimum of 3 years
  • Must be in good standing with their unit

Service members can apply online at the ONGSP Application portal. For more information, please call 614-440-5379 or email the Ohio National Guard, Education Programs and Services Office.
ONGSP Approved Schools List
ONGSP User Guide
Ohio Army National Guard Education Benefits Handbook

Learn more about the Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program

Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund: The Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund provides educational assistance to the Children and Spouses of a Service member who was killed in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The Memorial Fund will provide 100% of instructional and general fee charges at public colleges and universities and $8,606 per academic year at private post-secondary institutions. Eligibility is for a maximum of the equivalent of four academic years of full-time or part-time undergraduate study.

Students may also use this benefit for a certificate program not to exceed $8,000 per academic year for instructional and student fee charges at public and private (non-profit and for-profit) post-secondary institutions. Students can receive tuition assistance for up to two certificate programs, not to exceed the equivalent of four academic years of full-time or part-time undergraduate study.
Who is eligible for the Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund? Recipients must be the Surviving Spouse or Child of a Service member who was serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and was killed in the line of duty during Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom or an officially designated combat zone. Recipients are required to be current Ohio residents; however, they are not required to have been Ohio residents at the time the Service member died. Children are only eligible for this program if they are not eligible for the Ohio War Orphan and Severely Disabled Veterans’ Children Scholarship.

Students are required to provide a copy of the Service member’s DD1300, Report of Casualty and a copy of their marriage or birth certificate (as applicable). For more information, please call 614-752-9481.

Learn more about the Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund

Ohio 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 Children sitting on the steps of a schooltheir parents by:

  • Facilitating the prompt enrollment of Children of military Families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
  • Facilitating the student placement process through which Children of military Families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic and social activities
  • Facilitating the on-time graduation of Children of military Families
  • Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
  • Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools and military Families under this compact
  • Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military Children
  • Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents and the student to achieve educational success for the student

MIC3 Assistance Request

Points of Contact
Phone:614-466-6573 / 614-336-7456 / 614-296-7694 / 614-728-4925

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

Purple Star Designation for Ohio Military-Friendly Schools: The Purple Star Award for military-friendly schools recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and Families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces. Schools that earn the award will receive a specPurple Starial Purple Star recognition to display on site.

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 will also have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military Families. For more information about Ohio Purple Star Award schools, please call 614-466-4109.
List of Ohio Purple Star Designated Schools

Learn more about the Purple Star Designation for Ohio Military-Friendly Schools

Ohio Collegiate Purple Star Designation for Military-Friendly Colleges and Universities: The Ohio Collegiate Purple Star designation recognizes public and private universities and colleges in Ohio that are supportive and inclusive of military-connected Collegiate Purple Starstudents.

Some of the requirements to be eligible for a Purple Star designation:

  • Establish a dedicated point of contact or military and Veteran center or office
  • Offer priority registration for Veterans and Service members
  • Accept and evaluate of military experience and education for school credit
  • Link student Service members and Veterans with prospective employers

A complete list of eligibility requirements can be found on the Ohio Department of Education, Collegiate Purple Star Award Application .
Ohio Department of Higher Education, Directive 2022-004, Designation of Collegiate Purple Star Institutions
Ohio Collegiate Purple Star Designation Awardees

Learn more about the Ohio Collegiate Purple Star Designation for Military-Friendly Colleges and Universities

Ohio GI Promise, Resident Tuition Rates for Nonresident Veterans and their Dependents: The Ohio GI Promise allows qualified nonresident Veterans and their dependents, to skip the 12-month residency requirement to attend Ohio public colleges and universities at in-state tuition rates.
Who is eligible for the Ohio GI Promise, Resident Tuition Rates for Nonresident Veterans and their Dependents? Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

  • Veteran must have been honorably discharged or medically separated from the U.S. Armed Forces after at least one year of service
  • Dependents are eligible if the Veteran was killed in action, declared missing in action, or a prisoner of war

The Veteran or the Veteran's dependents must be domiciled in Ohio as of the first day of enrollment.

Learn more about the Ohio GI Promise, Resident Tuition Rates for Nonresident Veterans and their Dependents

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What are my Ohio Military and Veteran Employment Benefits?

Ohio National Guard Compensation for State Active Duty: Ohio National Guard Service members ordered to state active duty are eligible for the same pay and allowances as provided to Service members of the same grade and time in service serving in the active duty U.S. Armed Forces, but not less than $75 as base pay per day, whichever is greater.
Who is eligible for Ohio National Guard Compensation for State Active Duty? Ohio National Guard Service members serving on state active duty are eligible for compensation.

Learn more about Ohio National Guard Compensation for State Active Duty

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD): OOD is a state agency that helps residents with disabilities through employment assistance, disability determinations, and increasing their independence. They help people with disabilities get or keep a job by partnering with businesses, educational programs and non-profit organizations to create customized employment plans for disabled residents.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Fact Sheet

Learn more about Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities

Leave for Military Duty for Ohio State Employee for Reserve Component Service: State employees who are members of a reserve Airmen checking tires on an aircraftcomponent of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for 176 hours military leave with pay each federal fiscal year. While on paid military leave, employees continue to earn all forms of leave (sick, vacation and personal).

If the employee has used all military leave with pay or chooses not to use military leave for an active duty call-up, the employee is authorized to take military leave without pay.

Learn more about Leave for Military Duty for Ohio State Employee for Reserve Component Service

Right of Reinstatement for Ohio State Employee After Active Duty Service: Ohio State employees who are called to active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces are to be reinstated to the same or similar position they left if they meet the following requirements:

  • Received an honorable discharge or was released from active duty in an honorable status from a period of active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces, and
  • Request in writing to be reinstated in state employment within the approved timeline:
    • Active duty service less than 30 days – request for reinstatement must be made immediately after release from active duty
    • Active duty service of 31 to 180 days – request for reinstatement must be made within 14 days after release from active duty
    • Active duty service for more than 180 days with no known date of return – request for reinstatement must be made within 90 days after release from active duty

For more information or assistance please call 614-752-5393 or email DASHRD.HRPolicy@das.ohio.gov.

Learn more about Right of Reinstatement for Ohio State Employee After Active Duty Service

Ohio State Employees May Maintain or Reinstate Health Care Benefits During and After Military Service: An Ohio State Employee who is called to federal active duty may maintain or reinstate their health care benefits as if they were still at work. If health care benefits are maintained or reinstated the employee must still pay their portion of their health care premiums and the state employer will still be responsible for their share of the health care premiums.

For more information or assistance please call 614-752-5393 or email DASHRD.HRPolicy@das.ohio.gov.

Learn more about how an Ohio State Employees May Maintain or Reinstate Health Care Benefits During and After Military Service

Ohio State Employee Pay Supplements for Reserve Component Service Members Called to Federal Active Duty: A reserve component Service member who is an Ohio state employee can receive a pay supplement while on a federal active duty under certain limited conditions.

The pay supplement is the difference between the employee’s gross monthly salary as a state employee and their gross military pay and allowances while serving on federal active duty. The pay supplement cannot be more than their state employment salary.
Who is eligible for Ohio State Employee Pay Supplements for Reserve Component Service Members Called to Federal Active Duty?
To be eligible Service members must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be eligible to receive and use military leave with pay
  • Must be ordered to federal active duty for longer than one month

This does not apply for state active duty.

For more information or assistance please call 614-752-5393 or email DASHRD.HRPolicy@das.ohio.gov .

Learn more about Ohio State Employee Pay Supplements for Reserve Component Service Members called to Federal Active Duty

Ohio State Employment Veteran Hiring Preference: Veterans can receive 20% added to passing scores on an Ohio civil service exam. Current Service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, who completes initial entry-level training, can receive 15% added to passing scores.
Who is eligible for Ohio State Employment Veteran Hiring Preference? Ohio resident Veterans who are honorably discharged from active duty or transfer to a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, after serving 180 days active duty are eligible for 20% added to their scores.

Current resident Service members in good standing serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for 15% added to their Scores.

Learn more about Ohio State Employment Veteran Hiring Preference

Ohio Educator Licensing Benefits for Veterans, Service Members and Spouses: The Ohio Department of Education has eliminated fees for educator licenses for Veterans, current Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, (including Service members in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve) and Spouses of active-duty Service members.

In addition, the Ohio Department of Education offers a streamlined licensing process for educators involved with the military.

  • One-Year Out-of-State Educator License - Incoming licensed teachers from other states - including Service members, Spouses of Service members and Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces – can receive this license soon after applying if they meet all requirements; this license allows someone to teach for a year in Ohio while they are meeting any additional requirements for full licensure
  • Military Extensions to Ohio licenses – Service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces who are called to active duty and have a valid educator license in Ohio, may have their license extended for the duration of their active duty service; Service members must receive an honorable discharge to be eligible for an extension
  • Alternative Routes to Ohio Licensure - The Ohio Credential Review Board will assist individuals who are pursuing an alternative educator license by considering factors such as successful experience, academic qualifications and professional accomplishments that may serve as a basis for meeting licensure requirements through alternative means
  • Temporary Military License - Temporary educator licenses may be issued to active duty Service members and their Spouse who are stationed in Ohio and have a valid (active) out-of-state license; candidates must be in good standing in the issuing state and may teach only the grade levels and subject area(s) listed on the Ohio temporary license

For more information about military educational license benefits please contact the Office of Educator Licensure at 877-644-6338 or email educator.licensure@education.ohio.gov.

Learn more about Ohio Educator Licensing Benefits for Veterans, Service Members and Spouses

Ohio Troops to Teachers Program: The Ohio Troops to Teachers program was established to help transitioning Service members and Veterans start new careers as public school teachers.

The goal of the Ohio Troops to Teachers Program is to identify potential teachers and help facilitate the process for them to earn a teaching certificate and finding employment as an Ohio teacher. For more information, please call 614-728-2704, OhioTTT@education.ohio.gov or email .

Learn more about the Ohio Troops to Teachers Program

OhioMeansJobs Licensed Occupations for Veterans: The OhioMeansJobs website offers a guide to help Veterans and their Spouses earn a license or certificate required for a civilian occupation in Ohio. Veterans can find more information on how to obtain a state-issued license or certificate and additional benefits offered to Veterans and their Spouses by visiting these websites. They also offer a Military Skills Translator where Veterans can match their military experience to civilian jobs.

Learn more about OhioMeansJobs Licensed Occupations for Veterans

Ohio Veteran Career Information Center: The Ohio Veteran Career Information Center offers a collection of resources available to Service members, Veterans and their Families who are searching for employment. Resources are grouped in the following categories:

  • Career Resources and Benefits
  • Employment and Entrepreneurship
  • Licensing, Education and Training
  • Additional Resources

In addition, OhioMeansJobs Centers offers priority service to Veterans, Service members, eligible Spouses and Family caregivers. For more information please fill out the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Veteran Questionnaire and email it to ohiovetsfirst@jfs.ohio.gov or visit an OhioMeansJobs Center.

Learn more about the Ohio Veteran Career Information Center

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:

  • During a war, or
  • During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
  • For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
  • During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
  • For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
  • In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia and Haiti, qualifies for preference

10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: 10 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): 10 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): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:

  • A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
  • A Veteran who received a Purple Heart

10-Point Derived Preference (XP): 10 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:

  • Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
  • Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
  • Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability

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 Veteran's Hiring Preferences

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) Benefits: 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 an individual may be absent from work F16 flying over a cityfor military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include 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 Service members 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 Ohio Regional Office Locations

Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act Benefits

Ohio Hilton Honors Military Program: The Ohio Hilton Honors Military Program helps make the career transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former Service members. The Hilton Honors Military Program will provide 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. Each state sets its own eligibility and residency requirements. Recipients must have a Hilton Honors account to receive the points. For more information, please email HiltonHonors@naswa.org or contact the nearest American Job Center.

Learn more about the Ohio Hilton Honors Military Program

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What are my Ohio Unemployment Benefits?

Ohio Unemployment Insurance (UI): The Ohio UI program provides temporary financial assistance for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement of lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income.

Applicants can file either online at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services UI Portal or by calling 877-644-6562 or TTY 614-387-8408, Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (excluding holidays).

To file for UI, applicants will need the following information:

  • Social Security number
  • Driver's license or state ID number
  • Name, address, telephone number and email address
  • Name, address, telephone number and dates of employment with each employer during the past 6 weeks
  • Reason for leaving employment from each employer
  • Dependents' names, Social Security numbers and dates of birth
  • If not a U.S. citizen or national, alien registration number and expiration date
  • Regular occupation and job skills
  • DD214, member 4 copy (for recent military service)
  • SF-8 or SF-50 form (for recent federal government employment)

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Worker’s Guide to UI
Ohio UI Tips and Step by Step Guide

Learn more about Ohio Unemployment Insurance

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What are my Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Military and Veteran Benefits?

“Armed Forces” Designation on Ohio Driver License or ID Card: The Ohio Department of Public Safety offers an “Armed Forces” designation on Ohio driver licenses and ID cards for Veterans and Service members serving in an active or reserve Ohio drivers license with Veteran IDcomponent of the U.S. Armed Forces.

To apply Service members or Veterans may visit any OHIO Deputy Registrar License Agency and must provide their Ohio driver license or ID card and one of the following:

  • DD214
  • Active or retired military ID
  • Veteran ID card
  • Copy of current orders

Learn more about “Armed Forces” Designation on Ohio Driver License or ID Card

Ohio Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates: Ohio offers 81 distinctive military and Veteran license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of Veterans, retired Service members, Service members and Family members.

There are no additional fees for these license plates. Some military license plates may be personalized for a $50 fee. Supporting documentation is required to determine eligibility for the desired license plate.
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles Fees
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Registration General Information

Honorably Discharged Veteran Honorably Discharged Veteran Plate: Veterans who received an Honorable Discharge, or General (Under Honorable Conditions) Discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the Honorably Discharged Veteran license plate. Veterans must complete a Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Request For Specialty License Plates and provide a copy of their DD214, a Certificate of Honorable Discharge, or an Ohio County Veteran ID Card to verify they received an honorable discharge. This license plate may be personalized.

OH Disabled Veteran plate Disabled Veteran Plate: Veterans have a 100% service-connected disability from the VA or were awarded funds to purchase or modify a vehicle to accommodate their disability are eligible for the Disabled Veteran license plate. Applicants must complete Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Registration Application for Gratis License Plates and provide a current letter from the VA stating they have a 100% disability rating, or were awarded funds to purchase or modify a vehicle. This license plate cannot be personalized.

OH Gold Star family plate Gold Star Family Plate: The Ohio Gold Star Family license plate is offered to the immediate Family member of a Service member who was serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and died in a combat zone. The following Family members are eligible:

  • Spouse
  • Parent
  • Grandparent
  • Sibling
  • Child

Applicants must submit a completed Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Affidavit for Gold Star Family License Plates verifying the relationship to the Service member and a Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Request For Specialty License Plates. Personalized plates are available.

Please select the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Registration, Organizational Plates tab then select “Gold Star Family” for specific information.

OH Medal of Honor Plate Medal of Honor Plate: Recipients of the Medal of Honor are eligible for the Ohio Medal of Honor license plate. Applicants must complete the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Registration Application for Gratis License Plates and provide documentation proving they were awarded the Medal of Honor. This license plate cannot be personalized.

OH Purple heart plate Purple Heart Plate: Recipients of the Purple Heart are eligible for the Ohio Purple Heart license plate. Applicants must submit a completed Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Request For Specialty License Plates and provide a copy of their DD214 that indicates they were awarded the Purple Heart. This license plate may be personalized.

Learn more about Ohio Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates

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What are my Ohio Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?

OhioCares: OhioCares is a collaboration between state and local agencies to support the behavioral health of Service members, Veterans and their Families. This partnership identifies community-based resources to address behavioral health issues.Ohio Cares

For more information, please call 800-720-9616. Ohio National Guard Service members and their Families can call 800-761-0868. A free, confidential Crisis Text Line is available 24/7 by texting 4HOPE to 741 741.

Learn more about OhioCares

Ohio National Guard Association, State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI is offered through the Ohio National Guard Association. This program is made up of a combination of several voluntary group life insurance policies available to Service members in National Guard. They are designed to help meet the needs of National Guard Service members and their Families.OH National Guard Association

Key Benefits of the SSLI:

  • Additional coverage through a combination of the SSLI plans
  • Every Ohio National Guard Service member is covered with $1,000 SSLI at no cost
  • Coverage available for Spouse and Children
  • Payable in event of death from any cause­
  • Coverage is twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year­
  • No war, aviation, hazardous duty or civilian occupation restrictions­
  • Service members can keep the coverage when they separate
  • Rates do not go up when Service members separate from the National Guard
  • Service members who joined the Ohio National Guard within the last year are eligible for $10,000 coverage at no cost for one year (must enroll in SSLI within the first year to be eligible)

Who is eligible for SSLI for National Guard Service Members? Ohio National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for SSLI coverage. For more information, please call 614-486-4186.
Ohio SSLI Fact Sheet

Learn more about Ohio National Guard Association, State Sponsored Life Insurance

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:

  • Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
  • Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
  • Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
  • Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
  • Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
  • Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

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

TRICARE Reserve Select 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:

  • Not on active duty orders
  • Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
  • Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a Family member

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

Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance

Ohio National Guard Death Benefits: The Ohio National Guard will pay the beneficiaries of a National Guard Service member who dies while serving on active duty a $100,000 death benefit.
Who is eligible for the Ohio National Guard Death Benefit? The beneficiaries of anOhio National Guard Service member who dies while serving on federal or state active duty are eligible for the death benefit.

Learn more about the Ohio National Guard Death Benefit

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What are my Ohio Military and Veteran Parks and Recreation Benefits?

Ohio Disabled Veteran and Former Prisoner of War (POW), Five Year Free Hunting and Fishing License: Ohio offers a free five year hunting and fishing license for eligible Veterans.Division of Wildlife logo

This benefit includes the fishing license, hunting license, fur taker permit, deer permit, wild turkey permit, wetlands habitat stamp, or any combination of those licenses.
Who is eligible for the Ohio Disabled Veteran and Former Prisoner of War (POW), Five Year Free Hunting and Fishing License? To be eligible Veterans must have been an Ohio resident for the last six months, received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces and meet one of the following requirements:

  • Rated by the VA as 100% permanent and totally disabled
  • Received a pension or compensation from the VA
  • Have an Ohio Disabled Veteran license plate
  • Was a former POW

Completed applications can be submitted by mail, email or fax.

Ohio Department of Veterans Services
1240 East Ninth Street, Room 1357
Cleveland, Ohio 44199-2001
Email: liaisonoffice@dvs.ohio.gov
Fax: 216-622-4844

Ohio Disabled Veteran and Former Prisoner of War, Five Year Free License Application

Learn more about the Ohio Disabled Veteran and Former Prisoner of War, Five Year Free Hunting and Fishing License

Active Duty Service Members, Ohio Hunting License Benefits: Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, while on leave or furlough are not required to purchase a hunting license, Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp, or fur taker permit. All other licenses and permits are required.

Nonresident Service members serving on active duty stationed in Ohio, may purchase an Ohio hunting license for resident prices.

Learn more about Active Duty Service Members, Ohio Hunting License Benefits

Active Duty Service Members, Ohio Fishing License Benefits: Service members serving on active duty, while on leave or furlough are not required to purchase a fishing license.

Nonresident Service members serving on active duty and stationed in Ohio, may purchase an Ohio fishing license for resident prices.

Parks and Watercraft logo Learn more about Active Duty Service Members Ohio Fishing License Benefits

Free Ohio Registration of Watercraft for Eligible Ohio Veterans: Ohio offers free watercraft registration for resident Veterans who meet the following requirements:

  • 100% Disabled Veteran – Must provide letter from the VA stating they have a 100% service-connected disability.
  • Medal of Honor Recipient – Must provide official documentation they were awarded the Medal of Honor
  • Former Prisoner of War (POW) - Must provide official documentation that they were a former POW and received an honorable discharge, or that they were a former POW and are still serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces

Learn more about Free Ohio Registration of Watercraft for Eligible Ohio Veterans

Camping Discounts for Service Members and Veterans at Ohio State Parks: Active duty Service members and retired Service Mosquito Lake State Parkmembers can receive a 10% discount every night of the week for all overnight facilities. There is no residency restriction for military customers.

Learn more about Camping Discounts for Service Members and Veterans at Ohio State Parks

Free Camping for Former Prisoners of War (POW) and 100% Disabled Veterans at Ohio State Parks: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources offers free camping for resident former POWs or honorably discharged Veterans who have a permanent and total disability (as determined by the VA). This discount is only for campsites and cannot be used for multiple campsites for the same time period.

This discount is only available for reservations made through the call center. Please call 866-644-6727 for reservations.

Learn more about Free Camping for Former Prisoners of War and 100% Disabled Veterans at Ohio State Parks

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What are the Ohio Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?

Short Term Financial Assistance for Ohio Veterans and their Families: Each County Veterans Service Office provides short-term financial assistance to Veterans and their Families. The amount and type of assistance varies according to the individual abilities of each county and may be used for payment of rent, mortgage, food, utilities, car payment or insurance.

Those interested should contact their local County Veterans Service Office for more information.
Ohio County Veterans Service Office Locations

Learn more about Short Term Financial Assistance for Ohio Veterans and their Families

Ohio Patriot Program for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families: The Ohio Attorney General’s Office is proud to offer the following services to Veterans, as well as active and reserve component Service members.

  • Consumer Protection - Provides information to assist Service members and Veterans to better protect themselves from consumer scams
  • Charities – Helps identify Veteran charity scams and can assist when starting a new charitable organization
  • Collections -Can assist with developing payment plans for state debts
  • Legal Assistance for Active Duty and Mobilized Service Members - Free legal services to active duty and mobilized Service members and their Families for various legal issues:
    • Violations of the Service members Civil Relief Act and the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act
    • Creating wills and powers of attorney
  • Civil Rights - Protects active duty Service members and Veterans from discrimination based on military status in employment, housing and public accommodations.
  • Identity Theft – Can assist Service members, Veterans and their Families if they have fallen victim to identity theft, can place an “Active Duty Alert” on their credit report to reduce the risk of identity theft

Additional Services: In addition to the direct services listed above the Ohio Attorney General’s Office can also assist Service members by providing information about additional resources that may be available, such as:

  • Questions regarding payment of Ohio income taxes while on active duty
  • Questions about utility payments or shut off
  • Providing information regarding the law and other helpful resources
  • Reporting patient abuse or neglect
  • Searching for concealed carry instructors
  • Information on bonuses for Veterans

For more information, please call 800-282-0515.

Learn more about the Ohio Patriot Program for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families

Ohio’s Veterans Courts: Ohio has special Veterans’ Courts, that emphasize treatment and diversion rather than punishment. The Ohio Department of Veterans Services has established effective working relationships with these courts to assist Veterans involved in the court system. Veterans should contact their local County Veteran Service Officer for more information.
Ohio County Veterans Service Office Locations

Learn more about Ohio’s Veterans’ Courts

Ohio Department of Veterans Services Military Records Office: Veterans can request military records through their County Veterans Service Office. The Ohio Department of Veterans Services maintains service records for Veterans who enlisted from Ohio and wartime bonus records.

To request their records Veterans must submit an Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Request for Military Records by mail or fax to:

Ohio Department of Veterans Services
77 S. High Street, 7th Fl
Columbus, OH 43215
Fax: 614-387-7317

For more information Veterans should call 888-387-6446 or contact their local County Veterans Service Office.
Ohio County Veterans Service Office Locations

Learn more about the Ohio Department of Veterans Services Military Records Office

Ohio Concealed Carry License Exemption for Active Duty Service Members: Active duty Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who have documentation they successfully completed firearms training that meets or exceeds the requirement for an Ohio concealed carry license do not need a concealed handgun license. Service members are required to carry proof of training and a valid military ID when carrying a weapon.

Learn more about Ohio Concealed Carry License Exemption for Active Duty Service Members

Ohio Veterans Bonus: The Ohio Veterans Bonus program offers a bonus for military service from October 7, 2001, through August 30, 2021 (compensable period). Eligibility and compensation for the Ohio Veterans Bonus program is based on where and when the Veteran or Service member served during active duty. The following calculations are used to determine the bonus amount:

  • $100 per month, not to exceed $1,000, for service in Afghanistan
  • $50 per month, not to exceed $500, for service anywhere else in the world

Once a Veteran has received $500 for service anywhere in the world, or $1,000 for service in Afghanistan, or the maximum $1,500 bonus, the Veteran is not eligible for additional funds, even if they served in multiple conflicts. Applications for the Bonus will be accepted until three years following the end of the Afghanistan conflict, August 30, 2024.
Who is eligible for the Ohio Veterans Bonus? Service members and Veterans must have served, or they are still serving, for greater than 90 days, on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, (does not include active duty for training), during the compensable time period. Some Family members may be eligible for compensation as well.

The Service member and Veteran eligibility criteria:

  • Served or currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces from Oct 7, 2001, through August 30, 2021
  • If separated must have received an honorable discharge
  • Ohio resident at the start of active duty service
  • Current Ohio resident
  • Has not received a bonus or compensation of a similar nature from another state

Ohio Veterans Bonus for Service Members Medically Discharged: Medically discharged or retired Veterans who meet the eligibility criteria above are eligible for an in-country bonus of $1,000 regardless of time served in-country and are eligible for anywhere else in the world service at $50 per month, (does not include active duty for training), up to $500.

Ohio Veterans Bonus for Family Members of Service Members whose Death IS Attributed to Illness or Injury in Afghanistan: The Family of an eligible Veteran who died due to injuries or illness they received while serving in Afghanistan, may apply for a $5000 bonus in the following order of precedence:

  • Spouse
  • Child or Children
  • Parents, including individuals who were legal guardians of the Service member for at least one year prior to their entry into the U.S. Armed Forces

To be eligible, the Service member must have met eligibility criteria listed above. Family members are not required to live in Ohio.

Ohio Veterans Bonus for Family Members of Service Members whose Death is Not Attributed to Illness or Injury in Afghanistan: The Family of an eligible Veteran whose death was not a result of injuries or illness sustained in Afghanistan can receive the bonus the Veteran would have received if they were living. Bonuses are awarded in the following order of precedence:

  • Spouse
  • Child or Children
  • Parents, including individuals who were legal guardians of the Service member for at least one year prior to their entry into the U.S. Armed Forces

To be eligible, the Service member or Veteran must meet the eligibility criteria listed above.

Ohio Veterans Bonus for Family Members or Service Members Declared a Prisoners of War (POW) or Missing in Action (MIA): Service members or Veterans who have been declared a POW or MIA or their Family can receive a $5000 bonus. The bonus is awarded in following order of precedence:

  • Spouse
  • Child or Children
  • Parents, including individuals who were legal guardians of the Service member for at least one year prior to their entry into the U.S. Armed Forces

To be eligible, the Service member must have met the eligibility criteria listed above.

To apply applicants can use the online application located at the “Learn more…” link below or they can download the application and send the completed application and required documentation (listed on the application) to:

Ohio Department of Veterans Services
Veterans Bonus Program
Post Office Box 373
Sandusky, OH 44871

Ohio Veterans Bonus Program Application (for Veteran or Service Member)
Ohio Veterans Bonus Program Application (for Survivors)

The Ohio Veterans Bonus is not taxable, bonus recipients do not need to report it as income on either their federal or Ohio income tax return.

For assistance, please call 877-OHIO VET (877-644-6838) or visit the nearest County Veterans Service Office.
Ohio County Veterans Service Office Locations
Ohio Veterans Bonus Application Instructions and Required Documents
Ohio Veterans Bonus Online Eligibility Tool

Learn more about the Ohio Veterans Bonus

Ohio Housing Finance Authority (OHFA), Ohio Heroes Home Loans: The OHFA Ohio Heroes loan offers Ohio residents who serve the public discounted mortgage interest rates.

Applicants can choose to include down payment assistance in their Ohio Heroes loan. Down payment assistance is forgiven after seven years. If home buyers sell or refinance their home within seven years, they must repay all the assistance provided.

Applicants must purchase a qualifying property that is limited to two acres within a municipal corporation and five acres outside a municipal corporation, unless additional acreage is required by local health or safety code. Qualifying properties include:

  • Existing homes: single-Family homes, conforming condominiums, duplexes, and up to four-unit properties
  • Newly built spec or nearly completed homes: one-unit single Family homes
  • Modular homes: one-unit single Family homes
  • Manufactured homes

Who is eligible for the OHFA, Ohio Heroes Home Loan? To qualify for an OHFA Ohio Heroes Loan applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Has not owned or had an ownership interest in their primary residence in the last three years, (Veterans are exempt from this requirement)
  • Has credit score of 640 or higher, 650 or higher for an FHA Loan
  • Must meet OHFA income and home purchase price limits
  • Must meet debt to income ratios for loan type

And one of the following:

  • Veteran or Service member in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces
  • Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran or Service member
  • Police or correctional officer
  • Firefighter, emergency medical technician or paramedic
  • Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses (LPN, RN and STNA)
  • Teachers (Pre-K through grade 12), Administrators and Counselors

Qualified buyers are required to complete the OHFA Homebuyer Education or, they may complete a course offered by a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved counseling agency in Ohio.

To determine eligibility, use the OHFA eligibility questionnaire. To start the home buying process, contact an OHFA participating lender or call 888-362-6432.

Learn more about Ohio Housing Finance Authority, Ohio Heroes Home Loans

Reimbursement of U.S. Veterans Affairs Life Insurance Premiums for Ohio National Guard Service Members: Ohio National Guard Service members who have chosen to receive life insurance coverage under the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance program can be reimbursed for their premium payments when ordered to state or federal active duty. This does not include Service members performing full-time Ohio National Guard duty or special work.

Learn more about Reimbursement for U.S. Veterans Affairs Life Insurance Premiums for Ohio National Guard Service Members

Ohio State Veterans Homes: Ohio has three Veterans Homes that offer a combination of independent living, supervised living, intermediate nursing care, skilled nursing care and memory care, for eligible Veterans. Each offers a quality of life that emphasizes privacy, encourages independence, provides comfort and security, and meets social needs.


Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown – 168 bed facility (offers intermediate care, skilled nursing care and memory care)

Veterans Home Georgetown
2003 Veterans Boulevard
Georgetown, OH 45121
Phone: 937-378-2905
Fax: 937-378-2919

Ohio Veterans Home in Sandusky – 427 bed facility (offers intermediate care, skilled nursing care and memory care)
Veterans Home Sandusky

3416 Columbus Avenue
Sandusky, OH 44870
Phone: 567-998-3680
Fax: 419-624-0753

Sandusky Domiciliary - 206 bed facility (offers independent and supervised living)
3416 Columbus Avenue
Sandusky, OH 44870
Phone: 567-998-3559
Fax: 419-609-2577

Who is eligible for care at Ohio State Veterans Homes: To be eligible for admission, Veterans must meet the following criteria:

  • Resident of Ohio for one year during their lifetime
  • Most recent discharge must have been an Honorable Discharge or a General Discharge, Under Honorable Conditions
  • Served on active duty (other than for training) during a period of war or declared armed conflict, or a recipient of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, or the Vietnam Service Medal
  • Has a disability due to disease, wounds or otherwise and by reason of their disability they are unable to earn a living

Ohio Veterans Homes Admission Information
Ohio Veterans Homes Admission Application

Learn more about Ohio State Veterans Homes

Ohio Veterans Home Cemetery: The Ohio Veterans Home Cemetery offers a dignified final resting place for deceased Veterans who were residents of an Ohio Veterans Home.

Provided at no cost to the Family, a state cemetery burial includes:

  • Gravesite and grave-liner
  • Opening and closing of the grave
  • Headstone or marker
  • Perpetual care
  • Burial flag for the Veteran

Who is eligible for Burial at the Ohio Veterans Home Cemetery? Veterans who are current residents of an Ohio Veterans Home are eligible for burial at the Ohio Veterans Home Cemetery. For more information, please call 419-626-2454.

Learn more about the Ohio Veterans Home Cemetery

Ohio Military Injury Relief Fund (MIRF): MIRF grants a one-time, $500 tax-exempt payment to Service members and Veterans who were injured or diagnosed with post-traumatic stress that occurred while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, after October 7, 2001. All applicants must be Ohio residents at the time of application. For more information, please call 877-644-6838, option 3.
MIRF Application
MIRF Brochure

Learn more about the Ohio Military Injury Relief Fund

Ohio County Veteran ID Card: Ohio offers a County Veteran ID card for eligible resident Veterans. This ID card can be used as proof of eligibility for benefits.
Who is eligible for an Ohio County Veteran ID Card: To be eligible Veterans must have received a discharge other than dishonorable. Veterans are required to provide a copy of their DD214 and two current, valid forms of identification (one must be a picture ID).

ID cards are issued by participating county recorders or through local the County Veteran Service Office.
Ohio County Veterans Service Office Locations
Ohio County Recorder Directory
Ohio County Veteran ID Card Information

Learn more About Ohio County Veteran ID Cards

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Ohio

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Ohio: 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 Ohio

Western Reserve National Cemetery U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Ohio: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains five national cemeteries in Ohio. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.

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

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Military Installations in Ohio

Please see the Ohio Military Resource Locator for additional information.

Active

Air Force
Wright-Patterson AFB

National Guard
Ohio National Guard

Ohio Army National Guard

Ohio Air National Guard
180 th Fighter Wing
121 st Air Refueling Wing
178 th Wing
179 th Cyberspace Wing

U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
88 th Readiness Division


Resources

Ohio State Government

Army National Guard Benefits

Ohio Department of Higher Education, Education for Veterans

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Ohio

Ohio Means Jobs, Military Service Career Center

FEDSHIREVETS, Veterans Preference

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles

Ohio Department of Taxation

Ohio Department of Veterans Services

Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Veterans Benefits

Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Ohio Revised Code

Ohio Legislative Service Commission

U.S. Department of Labor, Veteran's Employment and Career Transition Advisor

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

Military State Tax Guide

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Document Review Date: 12 July 2023