Montana offers various benefits for veterans. On this page, you’ll find a concise overview of each of these benefits.
Montana Veteran Housing Benefits
Montana operates veterans’ homes in Columbia Falls and Glendive. Honorably discharged veterans in need of skilled care qualify for admission. Spouses may be admitted if space permits. Residents’ payment is determined according to their financial capacity.
Montana Veteran Financial Benefits
Income Tax
Active-duty and Reserve/Guard compensation is exempt from taxes.
For military retirees with a gross income of less than $38,660, up to $4,640 of their retirement pay is tax-free. Commencing from the 2024 tax year, Montana will provide a state income tax exemption for up to half of military retirement pay for a period of up to five years following a retiree’s establishment of residency in Montana or commencement of retirement pay receipt.
Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption
Honorably discharged veterans with a 100% disability rating may qualify for partial property tax exemption on their home. Income restrictions are in place. Additionally, unmarried surviving spouses may also meet eligibility criteria for this benefit.
Montana Military Family Relief Fund
Provides grants of up to $2,000 to family members of Montana National Guard members or reservists who reside in Montana, have served for at least 30 consecutive days under federal contingency orders, and hold a pay grade no higher than O-3 or W-3.
Various types of grants are available.
Montana Employment Benefits
Point Preference in Hiring Veterans
In Montana, honorably discharged veterans receive an extra five points added to their scoring for public job applications, while disabled veterans receive 10 points. Certain spouses or unremarried surviving spouses may also meet eligibility requirements for this benefit.
Military Waiver for Commercial Driver’s License
Active-duty members and veterans who hold a license and have experience driving military motor vehicles similar to commercial ones may be eligible to have the skills portion of the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) waived.
While written tests may be waived, it’s important to note that endorsements for school bus, passenger, and hazardous materials cannot be transferred.
Montana Education Benefits
Montana Honorably Discharged Veteran Tuition Waiver
Montana resident veterans with an honorable discharge who served during wartime and have received a campaign or expeditionary medal are eligible for this benefit. Additionally, the veteran must have fully utilized all federal GI Bill benefits. The waiver includes coverage of 100% of in-state tuition costs.
Montana War Orphans Tuition Waiver
For children under 25 years old whose parent was killed in action or died due to combat-related injury or disease, the waiver provides full coverage for resident tuition expenses, amounting to 100%.
Montana Veteran Recreation Benefits
Hunting and Fishing Licenses
Disabled veterans in Montana might qualify for reduced rates on hunting and fishing licenses. Additionally, active-duty non-residents and their families can purchase hunting and fishing licenses at the resident rate.
State Park Admission
Montana resident veterans receive reduced rates on campsites and amenities at state parks.
Montana State Veterans Cemeteries
Montana oversees three Veterans Cemeteries located in Helena, Missoula, and Miles City.
Spouses have the option to be buried alongside the veteran.
A nominal burial fee applies, and non-residents may also qualify for burial.
