New Mexico Department of Veterans Affairs

Land of Enchantment Honor: New Mexico's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

New Mexico offers a distinctive and generous package of benefits to honor its large veteran population, reflecting the state's deep respect for military service. Administered by the New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services (NMDVS), these programs provide significant financial, educational, and quality-of-life advantages. 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 Mexico Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Full Property Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans: A cornerstone of veteran support in New Mexico, this benefit provides a 100% exemption from property taxes on the primary residence for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating. 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, New Mexico completely exempts military retirement pay from state income taxes. This policy allows retired service members to keep 100% of their hard-earned pension, providing a significant boost to their annual income.
3. Veterans' Property Tax Exemption: For veterans not eligible for the full disability exemption, the state offers a $4,000 reduction in the taxable value of their primary residence. This widely accessible benefit provides a helpful reduction in yearly property tax bills for nearly any honorably discharged veteran homeowner.
4. Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship: This unique and powerful benefit provides a full tuition scholarship for any Vietnam-era veteran pursuing a degree at a New Mexico public college or university. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, and books, offering an incredible opportunity for these veterans to achieve their educational goals without financial burden.
5. In-State Tuition Classification: Veterans, their spouses, and their children are eligible for in-state tuition rates at New Mexico's public colleges and universities without meeting the normal 12-month residency requirement. This can save a family thousands of dollars per year on the cost of higher education.
6. New Mexico State Veterans' Home: Located in Truth or Consequences, the State Veterans' Home provides high-quality, affordable long-term skilled nursing and domiciliary care. Access to this dedicated, veteran-centric facility is an invaluable resource for aging or disabled veterans and their families.
7. State Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive a hiring preference when applying for state and local government jobs. Five preference points are added to the application scores of qualified veterans, and ten points are added for disabled veterans, providing a substantial advantage in securing stable public service careers.
8. Free State Parks, Monuments, and Museum Admission: New Mexico offers a free annual day-use pass to its state parks and museums for any resident veteran with a 50% or greater service-connected disability. This valuable perk encourages enjoyment of the state's rich culture and stunning natural landscapes.
9. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: Resident veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are eligible for a free lifetime hunting and fishing license. This benefit enhances the quality of life and allows veterans to fully participate in the state's renowned outdoor recreational opportunities.
10. "VETERAN" Designation on Driver's License/ID Card: Veterans can have a "VETERAN" designation placed on their New Mexico 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 Mexico's strong commitment to its veteran community. For detailed eligibility requirements and to connect with a Veterans' Service Officer for assistance, veterans are encouraged to visit the official website of the New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services.

New Mexico Department of Veterans Services

Address: 
407 Galisteo St
Santa Fe, NM 87501

Phone: 1-866-433-8387

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Directory