Nearly 70,000 veterans live in Delaware today. Compared to other states, that number is relatively small. However, this doesn’t mean they are any less important.
These brave men and women made major sacrifices to protect the freedom of the United States. Thus, it’s Delaware’s obligation to help veterans reintegrate into society after service.
There are many Delaware state veteran benefits ready to be claimed. Unfortunately, many veterans don’t know what they’re entitled to. Here we’ll review all the benefits that are available in Delaware.
Read on to find out more.
Delaware State Veterans Home
Veterans who find themselves disabled or in need of nursing care for any reason can check in to a veterans home. The Delaware veterans home is situated in Milford.
There are a few requirements to be eligible for staying here. The veteran must have lived in Delaware for at least three years and have served a minimum of 180 active days.
Delaware Veteran Financial Benefits
Setting veterans up financially for life after service is one of Delaware’s main priorities. Several financial veteran benefits are available.
Pension Benefits for Paraplegic Veterans
Alongside the standard military pension, additional benefits are available for paraplegic veterans. They can claim $3,000 per year from the state of Delaware.
To claim this benefit, the veteran (or their caregiver) must submit evidence that they have paraplegia and that the injury is a result of military service.
If veterans need assistance with pension benefits, they can contact a local veteran advisor.
Income Tax
Delaware isn’t famed for its income tax breaks, but there are still some benefits. While a veteran is under the age of 60, up to $2,000 worth of military retirement pay and SBP payments are tax-free.
After the age of 60, this amount increases to $12,500.
Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit
If a veteran is permanently disabled and has lived in Delaware for at least three years, school tax credits are available. They can claim an exemption on the school tax part of any property tax bill.
Delaware Veteran Employment Benefits
Getting back to work after military service isn’t always easy. That’s why several types of benefits are dedicated to helping veterans and their families find employment.
State Employment Veterans Preference
Veterans can claim an extra five points on the hiring preference score after passing state hiring exams. Disabled veterans can get an additional ten points.
Spouses can also take these points by proxy under certain circumstances. Examples include if the veteran is killed in action, a prisoner of war, is 100% permanently disabled, or is declared missing in action. The spouse or widow must not remarry to claim this benefit.
License and Permits for Military Spouses
One of the best Delaware benefits is the help they provide for relocation. Military spouses can get a temporary occupational license for six months when moving to Delaware. This allows them to find quick employment in Delaware.
Delaware Veteran Education Benefits
Although many military members discontinue education to enlist, that doesn’t mean they can’t pursue education later. There are several plans set up to help them and their families.
Children of Deceased Veterans
If a service member is killed in action or dies as a result of wartime injuries, their children can claim free tuition. Additionally, the children of prisoners of war and missing military members can claim this benefit.
They are entitled to four years of free college in any state. To be eligible, the applicant must be aged 16-24 and have lived in Delaware for at least three years before applying for the grant.
Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance
Anyone in the National Guard can claim tuition assistance. They are entitled to 100% tuition fees at any state college or university in Delaware.
Delaware Veteran Recreation Benefits
As well as ensuring the financial and practical well-being of veterans, recreational benefits are a key part of veteran care. Veterans in Delaware can claim several benefits for recreational purposes.
State Park Admission
Active duty members, veterans who are honorably discharged, and Delaware National Guard members receive discounted admission to state parks.
They also receive 50% off the annual fee for vehicle entrance to all state parks and any recreational areas.
Hunting, Trapping, and Fishing License for Active Duty Military
When active-duty members are stationed in Delaware, they get discounts on licenses for recreational activities. If they want to go hunting, trapping, or fishing, they only need to pay the resident rate for a permit.
Hunting, Trapping, and Fishing License for Disabled Veterans
Any veteran who is classed as 60% or more disabled can obtain a free license. They must reside in Delaware to claim this benefit.
Delaware State Veterans Cemeteries
Veterans can opt to be buried in one of two cemeteries in Delaware: Bear or Millsboro. There are specific requirements for each cemetery; contact your local council member for more information.
Generally, the requirements are that veterans must not have been dishonorably discharged and must reside in Delaware to have a burial in one of these cemeteries. Additionally, some spouses and dependents are also eligible for burial alongside the veteran.
Delaware State Veteran Benefits Explained
This guide explains all the Delaware state veteran benefits that are available. Unfortunately, not all veterans are aware of what they’re entitled to.
At VetLink Solutions, our sole ambition is to assist veterans and their families with the help they deserve. We can submit successful claims on your behalf and guide you through the process.
Why not contact us today for a free evaluation with a veteran advisor?
