Michigan offers various benefits for veterans. On this page, you’ll find a concise overview of each of these benefits.
Michigan State Veterans Homes
Michigan hosts three Veteran Homes located in Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and Marquette. These homes welcome veterans eligible for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care or financial support for long-term care, provided they have received a discharge or release under honorable conditions.
Veterans who enlisted post-September 7, 1980, or entered active duty after October 16, 1981, are eligible if they served continuously for 24 months or the full duration of their active duty period.
Residency in Michigan is not a prerequisite, and admission for spouses or surviving spouses is possible based on availability. Fees are determined by income levels.
Michigan Veteran Financial Benefits
Income Tax
Compensation from active-duty service, retirement, and Survivor Benefit Plan payments is exempt from taxes.
Property Tax Waiver
Veterans rated 100% disabled or with a 100% rating due to individual unemployability could qualify for a tax exemption on their home. Eligibility criteria include an honorable discharge and Michigan residency.
Additionally, unremarried surviving spouses are also eligible for this benefit.
Vehicle Registration
Veterans classified as 100% permanently and totally disabled may qualify to receive a disabled veteran plate for one vehicle at no cost.
Emergency Assistance
The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency provides emergency aid to individuals facing temporary financial difficulties, offering assistance with utility bills, vehicle or home repairs, medical bills, or other debts.
Numerous resources are accessible, such as county Soldier and Sailor Relief Funds, the Michigan Veteran Trust Fund, and National Guard Family Programs.
Michigan State Employment Veterans Preference
Veterans and specific veteran spouses will receive priority consideration for initial employment opportunities with the state.
Michigan Children of Veterans Tuition Grant
The grant offers undergraduate tuition support for natural or adopted children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or have passed away due to military service. Children must apply for and receive benefits before reaching the age of 26.
Michigan Veteran Recreation Benefits
Active Duty Hunting and Fishing
Michigan residents on active duty are eligible to obtain hunting and fishing licenses free of charge.
Non-residents stationed in Michigan can acquire licenses at the resident rate.
Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing Licenses
Veterans classified as permanently and totally disabled can receive any resident hunting or fishing license, excluding those requiring a lottery, at no cost.
State Parks
Veterans rated as 100% permanently and totally disabled receive complimentary access to Michigan state parks.
Veterans’ Burial Expenses
In accordance with state legislation, veterans meeting eligibility criteria, along with certain spouses or surviving spouses who fulfill residency and asset requirements, may be eligible to receive $300 in burial assistance. This support is provided either by the County Board of Commissioners or the Board of County Auditors.
