Veterans Information and Benefits
Men and women who served in America's Armed Forces may be eligible for a variety of veteran's benefits and services provided by federal, state and local governments. Entitlement often is determined by the period of military service, service-connected disabilities and financial need. Your local state veteran counselor or veterans service agency can advise you of eligibility and assist you in the preparation and presentation of claims for entitled benefits.
Blind Annuity
New York State offers a Blind Annuity benefit paid monthly to visually impaired wartime veterans who live here. This benefit is extended to unremarried surviving spouses who remain a resident.
Burial
Financial assistance for burial and plot expenses is available for certain eligible veterans. Headstones and grave markers also are provided for veterans with unmarked grave sites. Burial in National Cemeteries is available for eligible veterans and spouses.
Disability Compensation & Pension
These benefits provide monthly financial assistance to veterans who incurred a service-connected disability or disease or wartime veterans, who are totally disabled and have low incomes. Similar programs provide monthly income to eligible surviving spouses.
Health Care
Veterans are eligible to receive medical care through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system, which maintains a network of medical facilities and community clinics across New York State. Non-service connected veterans may be subjected to a test of financial means and co-payment.
Long term health care is offered to wartime veterans and certain eligible spouses at New York State Veterans Homes.
New York State Sporting License
Various discounts and fee waivers apply to some military personnel and elders over 65 for hunting and fishing licenses.
Property Tax Exemption
Veterans may be eligible for a reduction in their real property tax. Your local assessor can assist in determining if you are eligible for such an exemption.
For more information about these and other veterans benefits contact your local veterans representative or call toll-free, 1-888-VETS NYS (1-888-838-7697).
High School Diploma for WW II Veterans
Under legislation passed by New York State, World War II veterans who were not able to complete high school are eligible to receive a high school diploma from their local high school. Contact your local Veterans' office for information.