New Hampshire Department of Veterans Affairs

Granite Gratitude: New Hampshire's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

New Hampshire, true to its "Live Free or Die" motto, offers a strong and pragmatic package of benefits to honor its veterans, focusing on financial stability, long-term care, and recognition of service. Administered by the New Hampshire Office of Veterans Services, these programs provide significant advantages to those who have served. 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 New Hampshire Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Property Tax Credits and Exemptions: A cornerstone of New Hampshire's support, this benefit provides significant property tax relief. All honorably discharged veterans are eligible for a standard tax credit, while veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability (or those rated as individually unemployable) are fully exempt from property taxes on their primary residence. This can save homeowners hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually.
2. No State Income Tax: While a benefit for all residents, the absence of a general state income tax is a major financial advantage for veterans. This means that military retirement pay, disability compensation, and any other post-service income are not taxed at the state level, allowing veterans to keep significantly more of their money.
3. New Hampshire Veterans Home: Located in Tilton, the New Hampshire Veterans Home is a highly regarded facility providing excellent long-term skilled nursing and rehabilitative care. Access to this affordable, high-quality, and veteran-centric care is an invaluable resource for aging or disabled veterans and their families, offering peace of mind and specialized support.
4. State Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive a hiring preference when applying for jobs in the state's classified service. Points are added to the examination scores of qualified veterans, giving them a significant advantage in securing stable and rewarding government careers.
5. Tuition Assistance for National Guard Members and Dependents: New Hampshire provides tuition waivers for members of the NH National Guard attending state-supported colleges and universities. The state also offers scholarships for the children of service members who were killed in action or are listed as MIA/POW, easing the financial burden of higher education.
6. Motor Vehicle Registration Fee Exemptions: New Hampshire provides significant relief from vehicle registration fees. Former POWs, recipients of the Medal of Honor, and veterans with certain amputations or who are blind are eligible for free vehicle registration. Veterans with a 100% disability may also qualify for fee exemptions.
7. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: New Hampshire honors its resident disabled veterans with free recreational licenses. Any honorably discharged veteran with a service-connected disability is eligible for a free lifetime hunting and fishing license, a valuable perk that encourages enjoyment of the state's rich outdoor traditions.
8. Burial in the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery: The state operates a beautiful, meticulously maintained Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. It provides a dignified and honorable final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents at no cost to the family for the plot, interment, and perpetual care, alleviating a significant financial and emotional burden.
9. State Park Admission Benefits: New Hampshire offers free admission to its state parks for any resident veteran with a service-connected disability. This encourages veterans and their families to enjoy the Granite State's stunning natural landscapes and recreational opportunities.
10. "VETERAN" Indicator on Driver's License/ID Card: Veterans can have a "VETERAN" indicator placed on their New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire's strong and practical commitment to its veteran community. For detailed eligibility requirements and to connect with a State Veterans Service Officer for assistance, veterans are encouraged to visit the official website of the New Hampshire Office of Veterans Services.

New Hampshire State Office of Veterans Services

Contact Information:

Address: 
1 Minuteman Way
Concord, NH 03301

Phone: 800-735-2964

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Directory