Massachusetts Veterans Benefits
- Michael DeFazio
- Dec 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Massachusetts offers a comprehensive range of benefits to its veterans, encompassing financial assistance, educational opportunities, employment support, and more. Here are some key programs and resources available:
1. Financial Assistance
Chapter 115 Benefits: Provides financial aid for food, housing, clothing, and medical care to veterans and their dependents with limited incomes. This program is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services in partnership with local Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs).
Annuity Payments: Eligible disabled veterans, as well as Gold Star parents and spouses, may receive annual annuity payments. Recent updates have increased these payments to offer greater support.
Veterans’ Bonuses: Massachusetts provides bonuses to veterans who served during specific campaigns or conflicts. Eligibility and bonus amounts vary based on the period and location of service.
2. Educational Benefits
Tuition Waivers: Veterans can receive tuition waivers for state-supported undergraduate courses at public colleges and universities in Massachusetts. This benefit is available on a space-available basis.
National Guard Education Assistance: Members of the Massachusetts National Guard are eligible for a 100% tuition and fee waiver for programs at state colleges, universities, or community colleges.
3. Employment Support
Veterans’ Preference in Public Employment: Veterans receive preference in civil service examinations for state employment, potentially placing them at the top of eligibility lists. Disabled veterans receive the highest preference.
Active Duty Service Buyback: State employees who are veterans can "buy back" up to four years of active duty service, allowing this time to count toward their state pension benefits.
4. Housing and Property Benefits
Property Tax Exemptions: Eligible veterans may receive property tax exemptions, with amounts varying based on disability status and other factors. Recent legislation allows municipalities to increase these exemptions.
State Veterans’ Homes: Massachusetts operates Veterans’ Homes in Chelsea and Holyoke, providing long-term care and support services to eligible veterans.
5. Recreational Benefits
Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Active-duty non-resident military personnel stationed in Massachusetts can obtain hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates.
State Park Access: Day-use parking fees at state parks are waived for vehicles bearing disabled veteran license plates from any state. This waiver does not apply to camping fees.
6. Additional Resources
Mass Vets Advisor: An online tool that helps veterans and their families find state, federal, and private benefits and services for which they may be eligible.
Veterans’ Laws and Benefits Guide: A comprehensive guide detailing the various benefits, services, and resources available to Massachusetts veterans.
For personalized assistance and to apply for these benefits, veterans should contact their local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO). VSOs are available in every Massachusetts municipality to provide guidance and support in accessing state and federal benefits.
Massachusetts Government
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