Alaska's Top 10 Veteran Benefits: A Lifeline for Those Who Served

The Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, through its Office of Veterans Affairs, offers a robust suite of benefits designed to support and honor our WeSalute Members who have served in the U.S. military and live in Alaska.

 From significant financial advantages to comprehensive educational and recreational opportunities, these veteran benefits programs aim to improve the quality of life for all residents of Alaska who have served in the armed forces.

Here is our WeSalute Guide to the Top 10 State Veterans Benefits for Alaska, which are the most valuable veterans benefits available in the Last Frontier:

1. Alaska Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption: Perhaps the most significant financial benefit, veterans with a VA disability rating of 50% or greater are exempt from property taxes on the first $150,000 of the assessed value of their primary residence. This can translate to thousands of dollars in annual savings.
2. Alaska Veteran Land Discount and Preference: Alaska offers a unique "Veterans Land Sale Preference," giving veterans an exclusive opportunity to purchase state residential or recreational land before it is offered to the general public. Additionally, the "Veterans Land Discount" provides a 25% discount on the purchase price of state land, a benefit that can be used once in a lifetime.
3. Alaska State Employment Preference: Veterans seeking employment with the state of Alaska receive a 5-point preference on examinations. Disabled veterans receive a 10-point preference, providing a considerable advantage in securing state government positions.
4. Alaska Education Benefits and Tuition Waivers: The state offers various educational advantages, including tuition waivers for surviving spouses and dependents of service members killed in the line of duty or who are listed as prisoners of war. Furthermore, the University of Alaska system offers in-state tuition rates to veterans and their families, regardless of their residency status.
5. Alaska Railroad and Ferry System Discounts: Veterans can explore the vast beauty of Alaska at a reduced cost. The Alaska Railroad offers a 20% discount to veterans, while the Alaska Marine Highway System provides a 50% discount for veterans with a service-connected disability.
6. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: Alaska's world-renowned hunting and fishing opportunities are made more accessible to disabled veterans. Those with a 50% or greater service-connected disability are eligible for free hunting and fishing licenses.
7. State Park Camping Pass for Disabled Veterans: Disabled veterans can enjoy Alaska's stunning state parks with a free annual camping pass, encouraging outdoor recreation and appreciation of the state's natural wonders.
8. Military Service Credit for State Retirement: Veterans who become state employees can purchase up to five years of military service credit towards their state retirement, potentially leading to an earlier and more substantial pension.
9. Business License Fee Waiver: To support veteran entrepreneurship, the state waives the business license fee for veterans who own a majority stake in their business.
10. Burial in the Alaska Veterans Cemetery: The Alaska Veterans Cemetery in Fort Richardson provides a dignified final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents at no cost for the plot. This ensures that those who served the nation are honored in perpetuity.

These benefits, among others offered by the state, demonstrate Alaska's strong commitment to its veteran population. The Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs stands as a crucial resource for veterans and their families, assisting them in navigating and accessing the full range of federal and state benefits they have earned.

Alaska Department of Military and Veteran Affairs

Address:
Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs
4600 DeBarr Road, Suite 180
Anchorage, AK 99508

Phone: 907-334-0874

Return to the WeSalute Guide to the Top 10 State Veterans Benefits