Virginia Military and Veterans Benefits

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State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance

Department of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Health and Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits

Virginia Military Resource Locator
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Virginia
Resources

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

Virginia Department of Veterans Services, Benefits Service Offices: The Virginia Department of Veterans Services has Benefits Service Offices that assist Veterans and their families find and apply for Veterans benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All services are provided free of charge.
Virginia Department of Veterans Services, Benefits Brochure

Learn more about Virginia Department of Veterans Services, Benefits Service Offices


Virginia Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility

Welcome to Virginia

What are my Virginia Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?

Virginia Income Tax Deduction for Military Pay:
Resident service members serving on active duty for 90 or more days who earn less than $30,000 (base pay) can deduct up to $15,000 from their Virginia Income tax. For every $1 of income over $15,000, the maximum subtraction is reduced by $1.

Learn more about the Virginia Income Tax Deduction for Military Pay

Virginia Tax Exemption for National Guard Income: Virginia National Guard service members, in pay grades O-3 and below can deduct their National Guard pay that is received for up to 39 calendar days of service or $3,000, whichever is less.

Learn more about the Virginia Tax Exemption for National Guard Income

Virginia Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: Income earned by a nonresident military spouse, who is in Virginia only to be with their nonresident service member spouse who is permanently stationed in Virginia is exempt from Virginia Income tax. The spouse must have the same legal state of residence as the service member to be eligible.
Virginia Department of Taxation, Important Information Regarding Spouses of Military Servicemembers

Learn more about Virginia Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses

Virginia Taxes on Combat and Hazardous Duty Pay: Combat pay and hazardous duty pay are not taxed in Virginia.

Learn more about Virginia Taxes on Combat and Hazardous Duty Pay

Virginia Taxable Income Subtraction for Military Retired Pay: Virginia has a graduated income subtraction for military retired pay. For the 2023 tax year resident Veterans aged 55 and over who are receiving military retired pay can deduct $20,000 from their Virginia taxable income. This subtraction will increase each year by $10,000 until the 2025 tax year, for a maximum subtraction of $40,000.

  • 2023 - $20,000
  • 2024 - $30,000
  • 2025 and later - $40,000

Distributions from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) are not eligible for this income subtraction. Beginning in the 2024 tax year the over age 55 eligibility requirement has been eliminated.

Learn more about Virginia Taxable Income Subtraction for Military Retired Pay

Virginia Income Tax Subtraction for Military Retired Pay Received by Medal of Honor Recipients: Military retired pay received by a Medal of Honor recipient is not taxed in Virginia. The subtraction does not apply to benefits received by a surviving spouse.

Learn more about Virginia Income Tax Subtraction for Military Retired Pay Received by Medal of Honor Recipients

Virginia Taxes on 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 of the payments which are considered disability benefits 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

See IRS Publication 525 for more information.

Learn more about Virginia Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay

Virginia Income Tax Filing and Payment Extensions for Service Members and their Spouse: Virginia offers extensions to file and pay Virginia income taxes for service members and their spouse. Service members must serve in one of the following situations to be eligible:

  • Stationed outside the U.S. or Puerto Rico on May 1, receive an automatic extension until July 1; write "Overseas Rule" at the top of the return and envelope and attach a statement explaining the reason for being out of the country
  • When serving in a combat zone eligible for the same extension granted by the IRS, plus an additional 15 days, or a one-year extension, whichever date is later; write "Combat Zone" at the top of the tax return and envelope
  • Deployed to noncombat service outside of the U.S. are allowed an extension of 90 days after the completion of deployment; write "Overseas Noncombat" at the top of their tax returns and on the envelope

IRS Combat Zone Filing Extension
Virginia Department of Taxation, Tax Bulletin 05-5, Filing Extension Granted While Serving in a Combat Zone

Learn more about Virginia Income Tax Filing and Payment Extensions for Service Members and their Spouse

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

Virginia State Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman's Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: Virginia has a graduated taxable income subtraction for survivor benefit annuities paid to a resident surviving spouse of achild hugging a grave stonedeceased Veteran. For the 2023 tax year a surviving spouse, age 55 and older who is receiving survivor annuities can deduct $20,000 from their Virginia taxable income. This subtraction will increase each year by $10,000 until the 2025 tax year, for a maximum subtraction of $40,000.

  • 2023 - $20,000
  • 2024 - $30,000
  • 2025 and later - $40,000

Beginning in the 2024 tax year the over age 55 eligibility requirement has been eliminated.

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

Virginia Real Property Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses: Virginia offers a complete property tax exemption for eligible disabled Veterans or surviving spouses. This exemption applies to the home that is their principal residence and up to one acre of land where the home is located.
Who is eligible for Virginia Real Property Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses? Veterans who have a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability rating or have an individually unemployable rating are eligible.

The unremarried surviving spouses of eligible disabled Veterans and of a service member who was killed in action, or died of wounds are also eligible. In addition, surviving spouses may move within Virginia and keep their exemption. For more information, please contact the local county, city, or town tax office.
Virginia Local Government Directory
Virginia Code 58.1-3219.5, 58.1-3219.9

Learn more about Virginia Real Estate Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses

Virginia Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces or the Virginia National Guard who have a service-connected, 100%, permanent and total disability rating from the VA are eligible for a Sales and Use Tax Exemption on the purchase of one vehicle. The vehicle must be owned and used primarily by, or for the qualifying Veteran.

A vehicle that is purchased by the spouse of a qualifying Veteran can also be eligible for this exemption if the vehicle is used primarily by or for the qualifying Veteran.

To apply for this exemption the vehicle purchaser must submit a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Purchaser's Statement of Tax Exemption and a copy of the Veteran's VA Benefit Summary Letter. Submission instructions can be found at the Learn more… link below.

Learn more about the Virginia Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans

Virginia Social Security Benefits Tax Exemption: Virginia does not tax Social Security benefits.

Learn more about the Virginia Social Security Benefits Tax Exemption

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What are my Virginia Military and Veterans Education Benefits?

Virginia National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (VNGSTAP): VNGSTAP offers up to $7,000 per fiscal year for tuition toward one degree or credential at each level up to a doctorate. VNGSTAP may be used at any accredited not-for-profit school with a physical location in Virginia.

All service members will be required to serve for two years in the Virginia National Guard after completion of last term that tuition assistance is used. Religious or theological studies are not eligible for VNGSTAP. Service members must use all available federal tuition assistance before VNGSTAP will pay, up to the $7,000 cap. Virginia Code 23.1-610
Who is eligible for the VNGSTAP?To be eligible for VNGSTAP service members must have completed initial active duty training requirements, or ROTC Advanced Camp and be an active member of the Virginia National Guard in good standing.

To apply service members can complete the online application at the Virginia National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program, Information and Application webpage.

Service members can apply for VNGSTAP three times a year:

State Tuition Assistance Application Dates

Semester

Application Window Open

Submission Deadline

Spring

September 15

November 1

Summer

February 15

April 1

Fall

May 15

July 1

For more information contact the State Education Office at 434-298-6155 or 434-298-3020.
VNGSTAP Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about the Virginia National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program

Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP): VMSDEP provides educational financial assistance for eligible spouses/surviving spouses and children of certain service members and disabled Veterans. Eligible students are guaranteed a waiver of all tuition and mandatory fees for eight semesters at a Virginia public college or university. In addition, the spouses/surviving spouses and children of a service member whose death or a Veteran whose disability was directly caused by military operations are eligible for a stipend to offset the cost of educational expenses such as room, board, books, and supplies.
Who is eligible for the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program? For a spouse/surviving spouse or child to be eligible they must meet the following requirements:

  • Accepted to a Virginia public college or university
  • Surviving spouse must be unremarried
  • Children must be between 16 and 29 years old

For family members to be eligible for a tuition waiver the Veteran must meet the following requirements:

  • Virginia Resident
  • Permanent and total non-service-connected disability rating from the VA
  • 90% or greater service-connected disability rating from the VA

For family members to be eligible for a tuition waiver and stipend the Veteran or service member must meet the following requirements:

  • Service member was killed, declared missing in action or taken prisoner of war during military operations
  • Veteran who has a service-connected disability rating of 90% or more from the VA as a direct result of military operations

Military operations include:

  • Combatting terrorism
  • Peacekeeping mission
  • Result of a terrorist act
  • Armed conflict

To apply students must use theVMSDEP online application, new users are required to create an account.For more information, please call 804-225-2083 or email vmsdep@dvs.virginia.gov.
VMSDEP Frequently Asked Questions
VMSDEP Flyer

Learn more about the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program

Virginia Honorary High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans: Virginia will award honorary high school diplomas to Veterans who left high school before graduating to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Honorary Diploma
Virginia Code 22.1-17.4
Who is eligible for Virginia Honorary High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans? Veterans must have received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces for service during the following time periods:

  • World War II - 1939 through 1945
  • Korean War - 1950 through 1953
  • Vietnam War - 1959 through 1975

Honorary diplomas can be requested by the Veteran, a family member, or a Veterans’ organization. For more information, please call 804-225-2924. Applicants should mail a completed Virginia Board of Education, Request for Veteran Honorary High School Diploma to:

Veterans Honorary High School Diploma Program
Virginia Department of Education
PO Box 2120
Richmond, Virginia 23218-2120

Learn more about Virginia Honorary High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans

Virginia Residency for Tuition and Financial Aid Purposes for Service Members, Dependents, Veterans and Surviving Spouses: Virginia offers in-state residency for tuition and financial aid purposes under the following circumstances:

  • Waiver of One Year Waiting Period to Establish Residency- Active duty service members who establish legal residence in Virginia and their dependents are not required to wait one year to qualify
  • Residency When on Active Service for 180 Days or More- Active duty service members, active or mobilized reserve component service members or those on temporary active duty orders for 180 days or more who live in Virginia
  • Assignment to Permanent Duty Station in Virginia – Nonresident service member and dependents assigned to a permanent duty station in Virginia; the service member and family do not need to live in Virginia as long as the service member is assigned to a duty station in Virginia
  • Assigned to a Neighboring State -Nonresident service members and dependents assigned to a permanent duty station in Maryland, Washington D.C., North Carolina, West Virginia, Kentucky, or Tennessee who live in Virginia
  • Veterans and Surviving Spouses – Honorably discharged Veterans or their surviving spouse living in Virginia who has not met legal residency requirements
  • VA Education Assistance -Veterans using VA education assistance

Students remain eligible for these benefits based on continued enrollment at any Virginia institution of higher education.

Learn more about Virginia Residency for Tuition and Financial Aid Purposes for Service Members, Dependents, Veterans and Surviving Spouses

Virginia Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational Interstate Compactsuccess imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their 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 in order to achieve educational success for the student

MIC3 Assistance Request

Points of Contact:
Phone:804-225-2157 / 804-786-8079

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

Virginia Purple Star Designation Program for Military-Friendly Schools: The Virginia Purple Star Designation Program 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 receive a special Purple Star recognition to display on 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 ensures that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military families can benefit from. Each school maintains a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military families.
Military Child Education Coalition, Purple Star School Program

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

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What are my Virginia Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?

Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Transition Program:The Virginia Department of Veterans Services’ V3 Transition Program offers peer-to-peer support and referrals to service members separating from the U.S. Armed Forces and their spouses. The V3 Transition Programs focuses on helping service members seeking employment, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

V3 Transition Program makes referrals that include a resume review, introduction to the Virginia Labor Market index, connection with the V3 Certified Companies for employment as well as other Virginia Department of Veterans Services programs.

The V3 Transition Program has a network of employers and resources that have made a commitment to help transitioning service members and their spouses by offering networking events, job fairs, hiring events, and electronic communications promoting jobs and events.

Learn more about the Virginia Values Veterans Transition Program

Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS), SkillBridge Internships: The DVS SkillBridge program offers internships for transitioning service members. SkillBridge ProgramWith commander approval, service members can participate in internships, up to six months prior to separation, helping them gain marketable skills and experience to enhance their civilian career opportunities.

Interested service members can submit the online Virginia DVS, SkillBridge Program - Service Member Application to apply.
Available DVS SkillBridge Internships

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, SkillBridge Internships

Virginia State Employee Paid Leave for Military Duty: State employees who are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are authorized 15 workdays of paid military leave per federal fiscal year for required military training and state or federal active duty. Former service members recalled to firefightersactive duty and state employees who voluntarily enter active duty are also eligible for paid military leave.

Employees do not lose seniority or accrued leave balances when taking military leave with pay. In addition, employees are paid up to 8 hours per year for pre-induction and other physical examinations required for military service, in addition to the 15 workdays discussed above.

Learn more about Virginia State Employee Paid Leave for Military Duty

Virginia State Employee Reserve Component Active Duty Pay Supplement: The Virginia State Employee Active Military Supplement is a payment to a state employee on military leave without pay that makes up the difference between their base state salary and their gross military salary plus allowances.
Who is eligible for the Virginia State Employee Reserve Component Active Duty Pay Supplement? Classified employees of Virginia Executive Branch agencies, including classified employees of institutions of higher education and the Virginia Community College System must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

  • On military leave without pay
  • Gross military pay (base pay plus allowances) while on active duty is less than their base state salary

Wage, hourly or p-14 employees are not eligible to receive the military supplement.
Virginia Active Military Supplement Fact Sheet

Learn more about Virginia State Employee Reserve Component Active Duty Pay Supplement

Virginia State Employee Military Bank Leave: Full-time Virginia state employees who are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces may carry forward leave that is more than the allowable carry-over amount to be saved as Military Bank leave (MB). MB may be used only when called to active duty and may not be paid out or credited in any other form to the employee.
Who is eligible for Virginia State Employee MB? Service members serving in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who are called to state or federal active duty are eligible. Employees must have a MR (Military Reserve) or NG (National Guard) designation in the Personnel Management Information System and have prior authorization to accrue MB.

Learn more about Virginia State Employee Military Bank Leave

Virginia Employment Commission (VEC), Veterans and Spouses Employment Assistance: VEC, Virginia Career Works offices help service members who are leaving the U.S. Armed Forces, Veterans, and their spouses by offering employment assistance, training, and placement services.Virginia Employment Commision

Some services provided include:

  • Job readiness assessment, including interviews and testing
  • Resume preparation assistance
  • Education and training recommendations
  • Development of an individual employment plan
  • Job search assistance
  • Career counseling
  • Labor market, occupational and training information
  • Referral to job banks, job portals and job openings
  • Referral to employers and registered apprenticeships
  • Developing jobs for Veterans with barriers to employment.
  • Referral to Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act funded training or third party services
  • Monthly follow-up by an assigned case manager for six months

Priority of Service: Eligible Veterans and spouses receive priority of service at VEC, Virginia Career Works offices for all programs funded wholly or in part by the U.S. Department of Labor. Priority of service means that Veterans and eligible spouses receive earlier preference for a service.
Code of Federal Regulations 20, 1010.200, Subpart B

In addition, VEC staff search all new job listings to see if any Veterans and eligible spouses qualify for a position.
Who is eligible for Priority of Service? For Veterans to be eligible they must have served on active duty (other than for training) in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge other than dishonorable.

The spouse or unremarried surviving spouse of the following are also eligible:

  • Veteran who died from a service-connected disability
  • Service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who is listed for 90 or more days as one of the following:
    • Missing in action
    • Captured in the line of duty by a hostile force
    • Forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power
  • Veteran who has a total service-connected disability rating from the VA
  • Veteran who died while a disability (as above) was in existence

For more information contact or visit the nearest VEC, Virginia Career Works office.
VEC, Veteran and Spouses Priority of Service Information and Eligibility Criteria

Learn more about the Virginia Employment Commission, Veterans and Spouses Employment Assistance

Virginia Workforce Connection, Veterans Services: The Virginia Workforce Connection webpage (at the “Learn more… link below) has a tab for Veteran Servicesthat contains links to information of interest to Veterans and their families. Topics include employment, military occupational code (MOC) based job search, disabled resources, Veterans organizations, VA services, and more.

Learn more about the Virginia Workforce Connection, Veterans Services

Virginia Boots to Suits Program: Virginia Boots to Suits is a clothing program for Virginia Veterans transitioning from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian careers. This program provides Veterans who are within 60 days of separation from the U.S. Armed Forces with two complimentary career outfits, helping them to look and feel their best for job interviews and non-military work environments. Military spouses who are job-seeking and the main household provider are also eligible. For more information, submit a Boots to Suits Application at the “Learn more…” link below.

Learn more about the Virginia Boots to Suits Program

Virginia State Employment Veterans Hiring Preferences: Virginia offers a hiring preference when hiring for state employment to eligible Veterans, National Guard service members and certain family members.aircraft in formation

When a scored test is used during hiring, additional percentage points are added to an applicant’s passing score. Applicants must meet all knowledge, skill, and ability requirements for the position.

Percentage Point Distribution:

  • Honorably discharged Veterans who served for 180 days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces receive an additional 5%
  • Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating from the VA receive an additional 10%
  • Currently serving National Guard service members who have completed initial active duty training receive an additional 5%
  • Surviving spouse and children (under age 27) of a service member who was killed in the line of duty receive an additional 5%

For positions that do not use a scored metric for hiring the hiring authority is required to find an equitable alternative that provides a Veterans hiring preference.
Virginia Department of Human Resource Management, Policy 2.10 Hiring

Learn more about Virginia State Employment Veterans Hiring Preferences

Virginia Professional License Expedited Review for Military Spouses: The spouse of a service member who is stationed in Virginia is authorized to have their professional license application expedited. Examples of these licenses include:

  • Real estate
  • Contractor
  • Cosmetology
  • Architect
  • Engineer
  • Interior designer

Licenses regulated by the Virginia Board of Health are not eligible for expedited processing.

A spouse’s professional license application must be acted on within 20 days of receipt. If the board cannot respond within 20 days, the board issues a temporary license until it can decide on the application. Temporary licenses are valid for 12 months. For more information contact the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation at 804-367-8500.
Virginia Code 54.1-119

Learn more about Virginia Professional License Expedited Review for Military Spouses

Military Spouses may Practice Law in Virginia: Military spouses who are licensed to practice law in another state, may practice law in Virginia if they meet certain requirements and they practice under the supervision of a licensed Virginia attorney. Rule 1A:8. Military Spouse Provisional Admission of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia explains these requirements in detail. Contact the Virginia Board of Bar Examiners at 804-367-0412 for more information.
Virginia Board of Bar Examiners, Military Spouse Provisional Admission

Lean more about how Military Spouses may Practice Law in Virginia

Virginia Military Medics and Corpsmen (MMAC) Program: MMAC recruits, reviews, and refers candidates to healthcare employers statewide.

MMAC provides the following assistance:MMAC Program logo

  • Helps Veterans or transitioning service members who were a Combat Medic (68W), Corpsman or Medical Technician (4N0X) who are within 12 months of discharge to practice clinical skills without civilian health care credentials
  • Helps Veterans with clinical and non-clinical military training and experience find employment in the health care field
  • Provides assistance for those looking to transition their military leadership skills towards the medical field leadership
  • Assist military spouses looking to start or continue a career in Virginia’s healthcare system

MMAC does not provide licensure and certification or direct financial assistance, but rather provides assistance in finding jobs in medical career fields.

Those interested should complete the online MMAC Program Application. Applicants are required to submit their DD214 and resume. For more information, please call 804-482-8528, or email mmac@dvs.virginia.gov.
MMAC Applicant Action Guide

Learn more about the Virginia Military Medics and Corpsmen Program

Virginia Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small-Business (SDVOSB) Designation: As part of the Virginia Small, Women-owned, and Minority Owned Business (SWaM) certification program, qualifying Veterans who have a service-connected disability and are small business owners may request a SDVOSB designation in the Virginia SWaM vendor database. This is not a separate SWaM certification, but rather a designation of those small businesses that are owned by disabled Veterans.

For a business to be certified as a SDVOSB they must meet the following requirements:

  • Veteran owner must have received an honorable discharge from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA
  • Business must be at least 51% owned by one or more disabled Veterans
  • Daily business operations must be managed and controlled by one or more disabled Veterans
  • Business must have 250 or fewer employees, annual gross receipts of $10 million or less, averaged over the previous three years

SDVOB Application for Certification

Businesses that do not have a SWaM certification can visit the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity webpage for more information. For more information, please contact the Virginia Department of Veterans Services at 540-597-1730.

Learn more about the Virginia Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small-Business Designation

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: 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:

  • 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): 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:

  • 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): 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 for 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 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.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations

Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

Virginia Hilton Honors Military Program: The Virginia 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 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. 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 Virginia Hilton Honors Military Program

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What are my Virginia Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

Virginia Unemployment Insurance (UI): The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) administers the UI program that provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who become unemployed through no fault of their own. Benefits are paid through taxes on employers covered under the Virginia Unemployment Compensation Act. No part of the cost of unemployment benefits is deducted from employee earnings.

Applicants can file a new claim by calling 866-832-2363 (Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.), or onlineat the Virginia UI online Claimant Self-Service System.

Applicants need the following information to file a claim:

  • Social Security number, address, and telephone number
  • Most recent employer’s name, address and telephone number and the reason no longer employed
  • Previous employers’ information
  • If applying though a Virginia Career Works Center, must show proof of Social Security number
  • SF50 if a federal employee in the last 18 months
  • DD214 if a former service member in the U.S. Armed Forces in the last 18 months

Virginia UI Handbook for Claimants
Virginia UI Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Virginia Unemployment Insurance

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What are my Virginia Military and Veterans Department of Motor Vehicles Benefits?

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Military and Veterans Information: The Virginia DMV has a webpage with links to information that is typically requested for Veterans, service members and their families when they relocate to Virginia.

The topics covered in the guide range from Military Special License Plates, driver’s license information, commercial driver’s licensing information, title, and registration information and more.
Virginia DMV, Military Guide

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Military and Veterans Information

"Veterans” Indicator on Virginia Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces have the option of adding a “Veteran” indicator to their driver’s license or ID card as a convenient way to show proof of Veteran status at retailers and restaurants that offer discounts to Veterans. VA Drivers License
Who is eligible for a “Veterans” Indicator on Virginia Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards? Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

  • Virginia resident
  • Served on active duty in the U. S. Armed Forces
  • Served more than 180 days in the Virginia National Guard or U. S. Armed Forces Reserves
  • Received an honorable discharge

Veterans must complete the Virginia Veteran Military Service Certification and show official documentation that they meet eligibility requirements (e.g., DD214, U.S. Military Retired ID Card (DD Form 2), DD256, WD AGO, or NGB22).

Veterans can apply online on the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Online Services webpage, by mail, fax, or in person at a Virginia DMV Customer Service Center.

Mailing Address:

Driver Support Work Center, Room 419
PO Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269-0001
Fax: 804-367-1112

Virginia Code 46.2-328.2

Learn more about the “Veterans” Indicator on Virginia Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards

Virginia Military and Veteran License Plates: Virginia offers 63 license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members and family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements apply. A short description of some of these plates can be found below.

License plates can be requested online, in person at a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Customer Service Center, or by mail to:

Virginia DMV
PO Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269-0001

If purchasing a plate by mail or at a customer service center, applicants will need to complete a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, License Plate Application.

Learn more about Virginia Military and Veteran License Plates

Virginia Purple Heart License Plate: Virginia offers one free set of Purple Heart license plates to recipients of the Purple Heart. These license plates may bePurple Heart License Plate personalized and is available with a disability symbol. Unremarried surviving spouses of eligible Veterans are also eligible to apply for this license plate.

Applicants are required to provide a copy of certificate of award, copy of official records or letter showing medal was awarded, or a copy of their DD214.
Virginia Purple Heart License Plate Online Ordering Page

Learn more about the Virginia Purple Heart License Plate

Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate: Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating from the VA are eligible for the Virginia Disabled Veteran license Disabled Veteran License Plateplate. These license plates may be personalized and is available with a disability symbol. Unremarried surviving spouses of eligible Veterans are also eligible to apply for this license plate.

Veterans who meet the following requirements are eligible for a free set of Disabled Veteran License plates:

  • Lost or loss the use of a leg, arm, or hand
  • Blind
  • Has a permanent and total disability rating from the VA

Applicants will be required to provide the following:

Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate Online Ordering Page

Learn more about the Virginia Disabled Veteran License Plate

Armed Forces License PlateVirginia Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces License Plate: Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the Virginia Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces license plate. These license plates may be personalized and is available with a disability symbol.

Veterans will be required to provide a copy of their DD214.
Virginia Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces License Plate Online Ordering Page

Learn more about the Virginia Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces License Plate

Virginia Gold Star License Plate: The immediate family members of a service member who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the Virginia Gold Star license plate. These license plates may be personalized and is available with a disability symbol. Gold Star Family Plate
Who is eligible for the Virginia Gold Star License Plate? The Virginia Gold Star license plate is offered to eligible family members of a service member, serving on active duty, who was killed in the line of duty in one of the following situations:

  • During World War I, World War II, or any following period of armed conflict when the U.S. was involved before July 1, 1958
  • After June 30, 1958:
    • In an action against an enemy of the U.S.
    • In military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force
    • While serving with friendly forces engaged in an armed conflict in which the U.S. is not a belligerent party against an opposing armed force
  • After March 28, 1973, because of:
    • An international terrorist attack against the U.S. or a foreign nation friendly to the U.S.
    • While serving outside the U.S., (including commonwealths, territories, and possessions), as part of a peacekeeping force

Family members who are eligible for the Gold Star license plate are:

  • Surviving spouse
  • Parents (biological, adoptive, step or foster)
  • Child (biological, adoptive, step)
  • Sibling or half-sibling

Applicants are required to provide a completed Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Gold Star or Next of Kin License Plate Applicant Certification.
Virginia Gold Star License Plate Online Ordering Page

Learn more about the Virginia Gold Star License Plate

Virginia Troops to Trucks Program, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Military Test Waivers: The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers CDL testing waivers for resident service members and former service members based on their military training and experience.

The Even Exchange option allows service members who have certain Military Occupational Specialties/ Ratings in the U.S. Armed Forces to have their CDL knowledge and skills testing waived. To be eligible service members must have worked in one of the following Military Occupational Specialties/ Ratings in the past year:

  • Army – 88M, 92F, 14T
  • Air Force – 2T1, 2F0, 3E2
  • Marine Corps – 3531
  • Navy – EO

The CDL Skills Waiver option is available to service members who have military commercial driving training and experience but do not have the Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings for the Even Exchange option. Applicants must have been licensed for at least two years on a military vehicle like the commercial vehicle class they are applying for. This option only allows a waiver of the skills testing and does not include the knowledge testing requirement.

Applicants must also meet the following requirements:

  • Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past two years
  • Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past two years
  • Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying offenses (listed on the application)
  • Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations (listed on the application)
  • Have not had had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) because of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault

Specialized endorsements may require other testing. Applicants must submit completed certification forms (including certification by their commanding officer) as well as documentation of eligibility to any Virginia DMV Customer Service Center location.
Virginia Troop to Trucks Flyer
Virginia Troops to Trucks Checklist
Virginia DMV, CDL Test Waiver Military Application
Virginia DMV, CDL Application
Virginia DMV, Customer Service Center Locations

Learn more about the Virginia Troops to Trucks Program, Commercial Driver’s License Military Test Waivers

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

Virginia National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Covered by Workers’ Compensation: Virginia National Guard service members on duty in a paid or unpaid status or when performing voluntary service at the request of their commander who are injured, become ill, become disabled or die in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act.
Virginia Workers' Compensation Laws
Who is eligible for Virginia National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Virginia National Guard service members are eligible for coverage and compensation under Virginia Worker’s Compensation laws.

Learn more about Virginia Nation Guard Benefits under Worker’s Compensation when Ordered to Duty

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 service members are not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.

Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance

Death Benefit for Federally Activated Service Members who are Virginia State Employees: Virginia offers a $20,000 death benefit to the beneficiaries of a state employee who is a reserve component service member and is ordered to federal active duty and is killed in action in armed conflict.

Learn more about the Death Benefit for Federally Activated Service Members who are Virginia State Employees

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

Virginia Resident Disabled Veteran Lifetime Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses: The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) offers free and Virginia Lifetime Licensereduced fee lifetime hunting, freshwater fishing, and trapping licenses to eligible disabled Veterans.
Virginia Code 29.1-302
Who is eligible for the Virginia Resident Disabled Veteran Lifetime Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses? Veterans must be Virginia residents and have a service-connected disability rating from the VA. Prices for the licenses are based on the Veteran’s service-connected disability percentage:

VA Service-Connected Disability Rating

Freshwater
Fishing

Hunting

Trapping

Total and Permanent

Free

Free

$15

70% or More

$50

$50

Standard Prices

50% to Less Than 70%

$75

$75

Standard Prices

30% to Less Than 50%

$100

$100

Standard Prices

Veterans are required to provide a VA Benefit Summary Letter or a Veterans’ Certificate of Disability as proof of eligibility when they apply. Required documentation and submission information is on the application.
Virginia DWR, Resident Disabled Veteran Application for Lifetime License and Veterans' Certificate of Disability

Learn more about the Virginia Resident Disabled Veteran Lifetime Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses

Virginia Nonresident Totally and Permanently Disabled Veteran Annual Hunting and Fishing Licenses: The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) offers discounted basic hunting and freshwater fishing licenses to eligible nonresident disabled Veterans. Pond
Who is eligible for the Virginia Nonresident Totally and Permanently Disabled Veteran Annual Hunting and Fishing Licenses?
Nonresident Veterans must have a service-connected disability rating from the VA. Prices for the licenses are based on the Veteran’s service-connected disability percentage:

VA Service-Connected Disability Rating

Freshwater
Fishing

Hunting

Total and Permanent

$12.50

$28.50

70% or More

$24

$56

Veterans are required to provide a VA Benefit Summary Letter or a Veterans’ Certificate of Disability as proof of eligibility when they apply. Required documentation and submission information is on the application.
Virginia DWR, Application for Annual Basic Freshwater and Annual Basic Hunting Licenses for Nonresident Disabled Veterans

Learn more about the Virginia Nonresident Totally and Permanently Disabled Veteran Annual Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Virginia Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Resident Prices for Nonresident Service Members and their Families: Nonresident service members and their family who are stationed in Virginia are eligible for resident prices for hunting and fishing license.

Learn more about Virginia Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Resident Prices for Nonresident Service Members and their Families

Special Virginia Fishing License for Disabled Active Duty Service Members: The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources will issue a free freshwater fishing andtrout license to any resident or nonresident disabled active duty service member who is receiving inpatient or outpatient medical treatment from a hospital in Virginia, a neighboring state, or the District of Columbia. This license is valid for one year and may not be reissued.

Learn more about the Special Virginia Fishing License for Disabled Active Duty Service Members

Virginia State Parks, Free Veteran Disability Passport: Virginia State Parks offers a free Veteran Disability Passport for eligible disabled Veterans. TheVeteran Passport authorizes free vehicle parking, boat launch, horse trailer parking and admission for the pass holder and all vehicle occupants at parks and facilities that have “per person” admission.

This pass also includes a 50% discount on camping, swimming, shelters, two or more night stays in a standard yurt and equipment rentals (park operated rentals only). One night standard yurt reservations receive a 25% discount.
Who is eligible for the Virginia State Parks, Free Veteran Disability Passport? To be eligible Veterans must have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.

To apply Veterans must submit acompleted Virginia State Parks Disability and Veteran Disability Pass Application and a copy of their VA Benefit Summary Letter to resvs@dcr.virginia.gov, or by mail to:

Virginia State Parks
P.O. Box 1394
Richmond, VA 23218

Learn more about the Virginia State Parks, Free Veteran Disability Passport

Virginia National Guard Passport to Virginia State Parks for Virginia National Guard Service Members: The Virginia National Guard Passport offers free entry to all Virginia state parks for service members serving in the Virginia National Guard and their immediate family members traveling in the same vehicle. To request a pass service members should speak to their chain of command. Service members must have the pass in their possession to gain free entry into state parks. The Virginia National Guard Passport is valid through the end of the calendar year indicated on the pass.

Learn more about the Virginia National Guard Passport to Virginia State Parks for Virginia National Guard Service Members

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What are my Virginia Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?

Virginia Veteran Care Centers, State Veterans Homes:The Virginia Department of Veterans Services has three Veterans Care Centers that provide affordable, long term skilled nursing care, Alzheimer’s/dementia care as well as short and long term rehabilitation for Veterans. Each first-class facility is designed to enhance a resident’s quality of life in a clean, caring, and dignified environment.


Davis and McDaniel Veterans Care Center (DMVCC) - 224 bed facility

Virginia Veterans Care Center
4550 Shenandoah Avenue
Roanoke, VA 24017
Phone: 504-982-2860
DMVCC Application Packet
DMVCC Brochure

Sitter and Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond (SBVCC) - 200 bed facility

Sitter and Barfoot Veterans Care Center
1601 Broad Rock Boulevard
Richmond, VA 23224
Phone: 804-371-8000
SBVCC Application Packet
SBVCC Brochure

Jones and Cabacoy Veterans Care Center, Virginia Beach (JCVCC) - 128 bed facility

Jones and Cabacoy Veterans Care Center
2641 Nimmo Pkwy
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Phone: 757-630-5418
JCVCC Brochure

Who is eligible for care at the Virginia Veteran Care Centers, State Veterans Homes?Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible for admission to a Virginia Veterans Care Center:

  • Virginia resident at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, or at the time of admission
  • Received an honorable discharge for their last term of service
  • Requires skilled nursing home care

The new Puller Veterans Care Center (PVCC) is a 128 bed facility under construction in Fauquier County and is scheduled to open soon.Puller Veterans Care Center

Learn more about the Virginia Veteran Care Centers, State Veterans Homes

Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries: The Virginia Department of Veterans Services has three Veterans cemeteries that provide a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members.


Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia

Amelia Cemetery
Address: 10300 Pridesville Road
Amelia, VA 23002
Phone: 855-4VA-VETS (855-482-8387)
Eligibility Application, Amelia Virginia Veterans Cemetery

Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery

Albert G Horton
Address: 5310 Milners Road
Suffolk, VA 23434
Phone: 855-4VA-VETS (855-482-8387)
Eligibility Application, Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery

Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery

Southwest Veterans Cemetery
Address: 5550 Bagging Plant Road
Dublin, VA 24084
Phone: 540-674-6893
Eligibility Application, Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery

All cemeteries offer burial services conducted in a committal shelter or chapel and can accommodate in-ground burial of cas­keted remains, in-ground burial of cremated remains, and above-ground placement of cremated remains in columbarium niches.

There is no cost for the burials. Virginia Veterans cemeteries provide a gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, a marble or granite headstone and perpetual care.
Who is eligible for burial in Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries? Eligibility requirements for the burial in Virginia's Veterans cemeteries are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Complete eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:

  • Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
  • Died while serving on active duty, or
  • Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their death occurred before age 60), or
  • Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
  • Spouses and children (burial of dependent children is limited to unmarried children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)

All Veterans are encouraged to complete an Eligibility Application to establish eligibility prior to need.
Virginia Veterans Cemetery Information

Learn more about Virginia State Veteran Cemeteries

Virginia Army National Guard Military Funeral Honors Program: The Virginia Army National Guard Funeral Honors Program provides funeral details that provide a Military Funeral Honors service at the funerals of eligible Veterans. Military Funeral Honors services include, at a minimum, a
two-person detail, the sounding of “Taps”, and folding and presentation of the U.S. Flag.
Who is eligible for Military Funeral Honors: Military Funeral Honors are provided for service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who die in the line of duty and Veterans who received an honorable discharge.

Families can request Military Funeral Honors through their funeral director. Funeral directors will contact the appropriate branch of service to make arrangements. The Virginia Army National Guard, Military Funeral Honors Program Tri-Fold has contact information for area coordinators and other branches of service points of contact.

Learn more about the Virginia Army National Guard Military Funeral Honors Program

Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS): VVFS helps Veterans, reserve component service members and their families as they address the challenges of military service, transition, deployments, post-traumatic stress disorder, behavioral health concerns, traumatic brain injuries and other physical injuries. They provide Dept of Veterans Servicesdirect support through coordinated personalized care, peer to peer mentoring, caregiver skill building, support groups and services for justice involved Veterans and service members.

VVFS provides referral and connection to services that are coordinated with Virginia Community Services Boards, brain injury service providers, VA medical facilities and other public and private agencies.
Who is eligible for VVFS? VVFS services are offered to the following:

  • Resident Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, regardless of discharge status
  • Virginia National Guard or resident U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who are not in a federal active duty status
  • Family members and caregivers of eligible Veterans and service members

VVFS Contact Information

Learn more about Virginia Veteran and Family Support

Virginia Military and Veteran Legal Resource Guide: The Virginia Attorney General has created the Virginia Military and Veteran Legal Resource Guide, a tool to help Virginia service members, military families, and Veterans understand the unique legal protections, rights, and resources available to them under the law.

Learn more about the Virginia Military and Veteran Legal Resource Guide

Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) Military Spouse Liaison: The Virginia DVS Military Spouse Liaison conducts outreach and provides advocacy on behalf of military spouses and their families. The liaison also works with key stakeholders within federal, state, local government, military installations, and the private sector to develop and implement a resource system to provide access to licensure reciprocity, employment, benefits, childcare, and community resources.

For questions regarding military spouse support, please email milspouse@dvs.virginia.gov.
Virginia DVS, Military Spouse Resource Guide

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Veterans Services Military Spouse Liaison

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Reduced Fare Program for Veterans with Disabilities (Reduced Fare SmarTrip Card): Metrobus, Metrorail and participating regional transit agencies offer discounted fares for disabled Veterans. Eligible Veterans receive the following discounts:

  • 50% off Metrorail and Metrobus fares
  • 50% off Seven-Day Regional Bus Pass
  • Discounted fares on the following participating bus service providers:
    • Alexandria Transit Company - DASH
    • Arlington Transit - ART
    • CUE Bus System (Fairfax)
    • Fairfax Connector
    • OmniRide/PRTC
    • Ride On - Montgomery County
    • TheBus - Prince George's County

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Reduced Fare Discounts Fact Sheet

Who is eligible for Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Reduced Fare Program for Veterans with Disabilities (Reduced Fare SmarTrip Card)? Veterans who have a 60% or greater disability rating from the VA are eligible for reduced fares. Applicants must complete part A of the application but do not need to complete Part B or C. The applicant must appear in person at one of the following locations:

Metro Transit Accessibility Center
655 Virginia Avenue SW
Washington, D.C. 20024

Or

TRIPS Commuter Store
8404 Colesville Road
Silver Spring, MD 20910

Veterans must have valid photo ID and an original or recently downloaded VA Benefit Summary Letter. Disabled Veterans rated at 100% can show their valid DD2765 Department of Defense Uniformed Services ID card in lieu of a Benefit Summary Letter.

For more information, please email eligibility@wmata.com, or call 202-962-2700 and select Option 1.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Reduced Fare Program for People with Disabilities ID Card Application

Learn more about Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Reduced Fare Program for Veterans with Disabilities (Reduced Fare SmarTrip Card)

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Virginia

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in 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 Virginia

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Virginia: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains 15 national cemeteries in Virginia. Please see the VA Cemeterylocal location listing for the nearest cemetery.

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

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Military Installations in Virginia

Please see the Virginia Military Resource Locator for additional information.

Active

Army
Fort Walker 

Fort Belvoir
Fort Gregg-Adams
Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall
Joint Base Langley-Eustis
Fort Eustis

Air Force
Joint Base Langley-Eustis

Navy
Naval Surface Warfare Center - Dahlgren
Naval Station Norfolk
Naval Weapons Station Yorktown

Marines
Marine Corp Base Quantico
Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall

National Guard
Virginia National Guard
Virginia Army National Guard
Fort Barfoot

Virginia Air National Guard
192nd Wing

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

Resources

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Military Guide

Virginia Veterans Resource Guide

Virginia Military and Veterans Legal Resource Guide

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

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Find Locations Search Engine

Virginia Department of Veterans Services

Army National Guard Benefits

Air National Guard Benefits

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Military Information

Virginia Employment Commission

Virginia Employment Commission, Veterans Information

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management, Human Resources Policies

Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, Virginia

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

Code of Virginia

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

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

Military State Tax Guide

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Document Review Date: 19 March 2024