The Natural State's Top 10: Most Valuable Veterans Benefits in Arkansas

For veterans residing in Arkansas, the state offers a robust suite of benefits designed to provide significant financial relief, educational opportunities, and long-term security. Administered by the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA), these programs stand as a testament to the state's commitment to its military heroes. While the individual value of each benefit can vary, a clear top tier emerges based on monetary impact, broad applicability, and quality of life enhancements.

Here are the top ten, most valuable veterans benefits offered through the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Homestead and Personal Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Topping the list for its substantial and direct financial impact, this benefit exempts 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans from paying all state taxes on their homestead and personal property. This exemption also extends to surviving spouses and dependent children, providing significant and lasting financial security.
2. Full Exemption of Military Retirement Pay from State Income Tax: In a major financial boon for military retirees, Arkansas completely exempts military retirement pay from state income taxes. This allows veterans to retain a larger portion of their hard-earned retirement, making Arkansas an attractive state for post-military life.
3. State Employment Preference: Veterans seeking employment with the state of Arkansas receive a hiring preference. A five-point preference is added to the civil service exam scores of eligible veterans, while disabled veterans receive a ten-point preference, providing a significant advantage in securing state government positions.
4. In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents: Arkansas law grants in-state tuition status to veterans, their spouses, and their dependents at any state-supported college or university. This can translate into tens of thousands of dollars in savings over the course of a degree program, making higher education more accessible.
5. Military Dependents Scholarship Program (MDS): This program provides a tuition waiver at any Arkansas public institution of higher education for the dependents of veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled, were killed in action, or are missing in action. This invaluable benefit can alleviate the significant financial burden of a college education for the families of those who have sacrificed the most.
6. Arkansas State Veterans Homes: With two locations in Fayetteville and North Little Rock, the Arkansas State Veterans Homes provide skilled nursing care to eligible veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents. Access to affordable, long-term care in a veteran-centric environment is a crucial benefit for those in need.
7. Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Recognizing the importance of outdoor recreation in the "Natural State," Arkansas offers deeply discounted lifetime hunting and fishing licenses for resident veterans. Disabled veterans with a 100% disability rating can obtain a lifetime combination license for a nominal fee, and military retirees are also eligible for discounted lifetime licenses.
8. Discounted Camping in State parks: Veterans with a 100% permanent disability rating are entitled to a 50% discount on camping fees in Arkansas's state parks, encouraging access to the state's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
9. No Tax on Gross Receipts for New Automobiles for Certain Disabled Veterans: Veterans who are blind as a result of a service-connected condition are exempt from paying the tax on the gross receipts from the sale of a new automobile. This can result in significant savings on a major purchase.
10. Burial in a State Veterans Cemetery: Arkansas maintains two state veterans cemeteries, providing a dignified and honorable final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents at no cost to the family for the veteran's interment. This benefit offers peace of mind and alleviates a significant financial burden during a difficult time.

These top ten benefits reflect a comprehensive support system for veterans in Arkansas, addressing key aspects of their financial well-being, educational advancement, and quality of life. For detailed eligibility requirements and application information, veterans are encouraged to contact the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs.

Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs

Contact Information:

Address: 
501 Woodlane Street, Suite 401N
Little Rock, AR 72201

Phone: 1-501-683-2382

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Guide