North Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs

Tar Heel Tribute: North Carolina's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

North Carolina, home to one of the largest military and veteran populations in the nation, offers a robust package of benefits to honor their service and support their transition to civilian life. Administered by the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (NCDMVA), these programs provide significant financial, educational, and long-term care 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 North Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: A cornerstone of veteran support, this benefit provides a significant property tax exemption on the primary residence for honorably discharged veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability. The exemption applies to the first $45,000 of the home's assessed value, saving eligible homeowners hundreds of dollars annually.
2. Full Exemption of Military Retirement Pay from State Income Tax: In a major financial advantage for career veterans, North Carolina 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 and making the state a top retirement destination for military members.
3. North Carolina Scholarship for Children of Wartime Veterans: This invaluable program provides significant educational scholarships for the children of certain deceased, disabled, or POW/MIA veterans. The scholarship can be used at North Carolina public, private, or community colleges, and covers tuition, fees, room, and board, opening a vital path to higher education for families who have sacrificed.
4. North Carolina State Veterans Homes: A critical component of long-term care, North Carolina operates four modern State Veterans Homes in Fayetteville, Kinston, Salisbury, and Black Mountain. These facilities provide high-quality, affordable skilled nursing and memory care in a comfortable, veteran-centric environment, an essential resource for aging veterans.
5. State Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive a hiring preference when applying for state government jobs. Preference is given to qualified veterans for positions that require an examination, providing a substantial advantage in securing stable and rewarding careers in public service.
6. In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents: North Carolina grants immediate residency for tuition purposes to veterans and their dependents using federal educational benefits. This allows them to pay the significantly lower in-state tuition rates at the state's public colleges and universities without a lengthy waiting period.
7. State Veterans Cemeteries: North Carolina operates four beautiful State Veterans Cemeteries in Black Mountain, Goldsboro, Jacksonville, and Spring Lake. These facilities provide a dignified and honorable final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents at no cost to the family for the plot and interment.
8. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans: North Carolina honors its resident disabled veterans with free and discounted recreational licenses. Veterans with a 50% or greater 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.
9. "VETERAN" Designation on Driver's License/ID Card: Veterans can have a "VETERAN" designation placed on their North Carolina 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.
10. Veterans Treatment Courts: While not a direct monetary benefit, North Carolina has established Veterans Treatment Courts across the state. These courts provide justice-involved veterans with access to treatment and support for issues like substance abuse and PTSD, offering a path to rehabilitation rather than incarceration. This innovative program is invaluable for helping veterans get their lives back on track.

These premier benefits showcase North Carolina'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 North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs

Address: 
North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
413 North Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27603

Phone: 844-624-8387 

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Directory