Mississippi Department of Veterans Affairs

Magnolia Valor: Mississippi's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

The state of Mississippi offers a comprehensive array of benefits to honor its veterans, providing significant financial, educational, and long-term care advantages. Administered by the Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board, these programs reflect a deep commitment to those who have served in the armed forces. While the personal value of each benefit can differ, a clear top tier emerges based on monetary impact, broad applicability, and life-altering support.

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

1. Homestead Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans: A cornerstone of support, this benefit provides a full exemption from all ad valorem (property) taxes on the primary residence for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability. This can save eligible homeowners thousands of dollars annually, offering profound and lasting financial security.
2. Full Exemption of Military Retirement Pay from State Income Tax: In a major financial advantage for career veterans, Mississippi completely exempts military retirement pay from state income taxes. This policy allows retired service members to keep 100% of their hard-earned pension, boosting their annual income and making Mississippi an attractive place for post-service life.
3. State Veterans Homes: Mississippi operates four exceptional State Veterans Homes in Collins, Jackson, Kosciusko, and Oxford. These facilities provide high-quality, affordable skilled nursing care in a setting dedicated to the unique needs of veterans. Access to this long-term care is an invaluable resource for aging or disabled veterans and their families.
4. In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents: Honorably discharged veterans and their dependents are granted immediate residency for tuition purposes at Mississippi's public colleges and universities. This allows them to pay the significantly lower in-state tuition rates without a lengthy waiting period, saving thousands on the cost of higher education.
5. State Employment Preference: Veterans receive a hiring preference when applying for public employment. Five preference points are added to the examination scores of qualified veterans, and ten points are added for disabled veterans, providing a substantial advantage in securing stable government careers.
6. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Mississippi honors its resident disabled veterans with free recreational licenses. Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are eligible for a free lifetime combination hunting and fishing license, a valuable perk that encourages enjoyment of the state's rich outdoor heritage.
7. State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: With two locations in Kilmichael and Newton, Mississippi's Veterans Memorial Cemeteries provide a dignified and honorable final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents. The state provides the plot, opening and closing of the grave, and perpetual care at no cost to the family, alleviating a significant financial and emotional burden.
8. Vehicle Privilege Tax Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are exempt from the ad valorem tax on one passenger vehicle. This provides a recurring annual savings and reduces the cost of vehicle ownership.
9. Educational Benefits for Children of POW/MIA: The state provides a tuition waiver and funds for eligible dependents of service members who are listed as a Prisoner of War or Missing in Action. This scholarship ensures that the children of these heroes have an opportunity to pursue higher education.
10. "VETERAN" Designation on Driver's License/ID Card: Veterans can have a "VETERAN" designator placed on their Mississippi driver's license or ID card. This simple but important benefit serves as official proof of veteran status, ensuring easy access to the numerous retail and commercial discounts offered throughout the state as a gesture of appreciation.

These premier benefits showcase Mississippi's strong commitment to its veteran community. For detailed eligibility requirements and to connect with a Veterans Benefits Specialist, veterans are encouraged to visit the official website of the Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board.

Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board

Contact Information:

Address: 
120 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39201
P.O. Box 3439, Jackson, MS 39207

Phone: 601-576-4850

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Directory