Minnesota veteran benefits
Veteran Compass lists 36 Minnesota programs for veterans and their families. Each one links to the official government page, because rules, amounts and deadlines change. This is a guide to what is worth looking into, not a decision about whether you qualify. Federal VA benefits, such as health care, disability compensation and the GI Bill, also apply in Minnesota; see the full directory or use the Benefit Finder.
Burial
Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs operates state veterans cemeteries at Little Falls, Preston, Duluth and Redwood Falls, offering casket and cremation gravesites and columbaria.
Who it may help: The page says the cemeteries serve eligible veterans and spouses but does not define eligibility, fees or an application process. Additional requirements apply; confirm with MDVA at 1-888-546-5838. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Disability
MDVA Field Operations (Mobile Claims Help)
A mobile unit of MDVA's Claims Division that reaches veterans who may not be able to seek help because of disability or location. Staff act as advocates for state and federal benefit applications, including federal claims and VA health care.
Who it may help: Aimed at veterans from all backgrounds who need help accessing benefits. The page directs questions to your County Veterans Service Officer or LinkVet. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Education
Minnesota GI Bill
A state program that can help eligible veterans, service members and certain family members pay for higher education, on-the-job training or apprenticeships, and licensing or certification fees. The page lists annual and category limits.
Who it may help: Veterans must have served honorably, and others may qualify through listed years of honorable National Guard or Reserve service. Surviving spouses and children of a service member who died or of a veteran with a 100 percent permanent and total service-connected rating may qualify. Minnesota residency applies and rules differ by program. Apply through gibill.mn.gov. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Surviving Children and Spouses Education Benefit
Eligible spouses and children can attend a public Minnesota college or university tuition-free until a bachelor's degree, and MDVA also contributes a set annual amount toward fees, books, supplies or housing.
Who it may help: The spouse or child, including adopted children and stepchildren who meet the page's rules, must be tied to a veteran who died on active duty or from a service-connected condition. People who already hold a bachelor's degree are not eligible. Apply through gibill.mn.gov. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Veteran Education Assistance Grant
A one-time tuition grant from MDVA for Minnesota veterans who have used up their federal GI Bill education benefits and need help finishing a bachelor's degree. It is paid to the school or reimbursed after tuition payment is verified.
Who it may help: Must be a Minnesota-resident veteran who has no bachelor's degree, listed Minnesota as home state at enlistment, and fully used federal education benefits within their eligibility period. Apply with the MDVA checklist and application. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Higher Education Veterans Programs and Campus Resource Centers
MDVA education coordinators at Minnesota colleges help veterans, service members and families with benefits, payment extensions, transfer credit, residency status and campus veteran resource centers.
Who it may help: The page says it serves veterans, current military members and their families at Minnesota colleges and universities, and lists no other requirements. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Minnesota National Guard State Tuition Reimbursement
State tuition reimbursement for Minnesota National Guard members attending accredited colleges, with per-year dollar caps and a lifetime credit cap. Eligibility can continue for some members after they separate.
Who it may help: Minnesota National Guard member attending an accredited college who must remain in the Guard for the whole term of courses, applies for federal Tuition Assistance first, and whose unit has current paperwork on file. Some separated members stay eligible for a limited period. Contact your unit full-time representative before enrolling. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Employment
Veteran-Owned Small Business Preference
Certified veteran-owned small businesses may be eligible for a bidding preference when selling to the state or bidding on state construction projects.
Who it may help: The business must be certified through the state's Small Business Certification Program. The page gives limited criteria and does not describe application steps. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Veterans Preference in Minnesota Public Hiring
State law gives most veterans a limited hiring and promotion preference in Minnesota public jobs, with extra points in some local government hiring and ranking priority for state positions. Some spouses may also qualify.
Who it may help: Applies to most veterans and certain spouses of deceased or disabled veterans, in state and local public employment. The page gives no application process for points; questions can go to MDVA's Veterans Preference Representative. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Veteran OJT and Apprenticeship Training
Veterans can use federal VA education benefits to learn a trade through on-the-job training or an approved apprenticeship while earning a rising wage. The page says the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry oversees the state's apprenticeship programs.
Who it may help: The page says the programs are available to veterans using their federal VA education benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill. It lists no other requirements and describes no application process. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Expedited Professional Licensing for Military Members (Nursing Board Example)
State law requires professional licensing boards to expedite licenses for qualified military-connected applicants. The Board of Nursing page names a staff contact for help expediting a nursing license.
Who it may help: Active military members, their spouses, and veterans who left service within two years before applying and have confirmation of an honorable or general discharge, per the page. For other professions, confirm with the relevant licensing board. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Family
Gold Star Family Program
MDVA connects families who lost a loved one in military service with peer support groups, guidance on federal survivor benefits, and a network of referrals. The page does not list specific dollar benefits.
Who it may help: The page describes Gold Star status as belonging to a parent, sibling, spouse or child of someone who died in military service. It states no residency rule or formal application; call the program at (612) 970-5662. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Financial
Market Value Exclusion for Veterans with a Disability
Reduces the taxable market value of a veteran's homestead, which may lower property tax. The size of the exclusion depends on the disability rating, and counties administer it.
Who it may help: Veterans must be honorably discharged, meet the rating threshold, and own and occupy the property as a homestead on December 31. Surviving spouses and primary family caregivers approved by the VA may qualify under the rules on the page. Apply to the county assessor with discharge and VA documentation. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Military Pension Subtraction (Minnesota Income Tax)
Lets eligible taxpayers subtract certain military retirement pay from Minnesota taxable income. Covered pay includes active and reserve retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments.
Who it may help: The retirement pay must be taxable on the federal return and come from the sources the page lists. It cannot be claimed together with the Credit for Past Military Service, and some pensions are excluded. Claim it on Schedule M1M. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Credit for Past Military Service
A nonrefundable Minnesota income tax credit for certain veterans, including Guard and Reserve members, based on past service. It is limited by income.
Who it may help: The filer must have separated from service, be under the income limit on the page, and meet one test: at least 20 years of service, a 100 percent total and permanent VA rating, or an honorable discharge with military retirement pay. It cannot be claimed together with the military pension subtraction. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Veterans Relief Grant
A one-time, once-per-lifetime grant to help veterans and dependents stabilize during hardship. Approved funds are paid directly to the vendors the applicant chooses.
Who it may help: The page says it is for veterans and dependents and is reviewed case by case; applicants must show they can stay stable afterward. The page does not say whether it is currently open, so confirm with your County Veterans Service Officer or LinkVet. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Subsistence Assistance
MDVA assistance that can help with shelter costs, utilities, health insurance premiums and a personal-needs cash grant for a limited period while a veteran cannot work at their usual job because of a disability.
Who it may help: Applicant must be a veteran as defined in state law, or an eligible surviving spouse who has not remarried, and a Minnesota resident. Income and asset limits apply, and applications go through a County Veterans Service Officer. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Motor Vehicle Sales Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans
Minnesota's Department of Revenue lists a motor vehicle sales tax exemption for veterans with a total service-connected disability, stated as starting July 1, 2024, and for purchasers with federal vehicle grant assistance.
Who it may help: Purchaser is a veteran with a total service-connected disability, or has grant assistance under the federal vehicle grant law. The page does not define total disability or list documentation; for exempt sales the seller keeps the title application form showing the exemption code. Confirm details with the Department of Revenue. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Military Pay Subtraction (Minnesota Income Tax)
Minnesota residents can subtract certain federally taxable active-duty pay, and qualifying National Guard or Reserve pay, from Minnesota taxable income by completing Schedule M1M.
Who it may help: Applies to Minnesota residents receiving qualifying military pay such as active-duty, drill and annual training pay. Nonresident service members generally do not pay Minnesota tax on military pay. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Healthcare
Minnesota Veterans Homes
State veterans homes provide skilled nursing care for eligible veterans and some spouses. Applicants' share of cost is figured from assets, income and service connection.
Who it may help: All residents must need skilled nursing care. Veterans must be Minnesota residents with an honorable discharge and 181 consecutive days of active duty (or an earlier line-of-duty disability discharge). Spouses of eligible veterans must be at least 55 and meet residency rules. Applicants submit an admission application, DD-214 and decision-maker documents. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
MDVA Dental Assistance
An income- and asset-based state program that helps pay for routine dental care, extractions and dentures for eligible veterans and dependents, with annual and lifetime dollar caps.
Who it may help: Applicants must be a veteran as defined in Minnesota law or an unremarried surviving spouse, be a Minnesota resident, and be within the household income and asset limits listed on the page. Apply through a County Veterans Service Officer. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
MDVA Optical Assistance
An income- and asset-based program that can help pay for eye exams and prescription eyewear, including contact lenses, up to an annual cap.
Who it may help: Applicants must be a veteran as defined in Minnesota law or an unremarried surviving spouse, a Minnesota resident for at least 30 days, and within the household income and asset limits. Apply through a County Veterans Service Officer. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Minnesota Service CORE
MDVA program, delivered with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, that offers veterans and families counseling services including individual and family, financial, addiction and in-home counseling, plus disability services.
Who it may help: Serves veterans and their families in Minnesota; the page lists no specific eligibility rules. Access is through a County Veterans Service Officer or LinkVet. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
MDVA Veteran Suicide Prevention Resources
State resources for service members, veterans and families, including free gun locks on request, a map of voluntary temporary firearm-storage locations, free trainings and crisis line information (dial 988 then press 1).
Who it may help: The page gears resources toward service members, veterans and families, and also lists items for gun owners, healthcare providers and veteran organizations. It lists no eligibility requirements. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Housing
Minnesota Homeless Veteran Registry
A voluntary registry run by MDVA that connects veterans experiencing homelessness with housing and services. Veterans can join directly or be referred by someone else using the release of information form.
Who it may help: Open to anyone who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves or National Guard, regardless of discharge type or length of service, per the page. Participation is voluntary. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Voucher Deposit Assistance Program (VDAP)
MDVA pays the unsubsidized deposit amount for Minnesota veterans who need rent assistance through the federal HUD-VASH program. The page describes it as a once-per-lifetime benefit.
Who it may help: Aimed at veterans who need rent assistance through HUD-VASH. The page says to contact your County Veterans Service Officer and does not describe a separate application process. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Homes for Veterans Property Management Incentive Program
MDVA program that offers property managers financial incentives and risk protection when they rent to eligible veterans experiencing homelessness. Funds are limited.
Who it may help: The veteran must be on the MDVA Homeless Veteran Registry and assigned a high barrier score for the funds; the risk fund also requires enrollment at move-in through the other funds. Property managers apply with documentation, and funds are available only until they run out. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Legal
County Veterans Service Offices and LinkVet
MDVA names the County Veterans Service Office as the primary contact for veterans benefits and services and offers a finder to locate yours. MDVA also runs LinkVet, a phone and online customer service line for veterans and families.
Who it may help: The page lists no eligibility rules for county office services. LinkVet is described as being for veterans and families with questions or who need help. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
DD214 Request Help through MDVA or a CVSO
MDVA and County Veterans Service Officers can help veterans, and certain surviving relatives, request copies of discharge papers when the office has them on file.
Who it may help: Veterans may request their own record; surviving spouses, children and parents may request with the documents listed on the page. The page does not mention fees. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Minnesota Veterans Treatment Courts
The Minnesota Judicial Branch lists veterans treatment courts, along with a veterans hybrid court, in several counties and judicial districts under its operational treatment courts page.
Who it may help: The page lists courts by county or district and does not define eligibility. Additional requirements apply; confirm with the local court. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Other
Minnesota Women Veterans Program
MDVA program that does outreach and shares resources so women veterans can reach federal and state benefits, including links to women's health services at VA medical centers and military sexual trauma resources.
Who it may help: Aimed at women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The page describes no enrollment process; its contact line for veteran-related questions is LinkVet. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Veterans of the Secret War in Laos State Benefits
A 2026 Minnesota law creates a process for verifying veterans who served with Special Guerrilla Units or other irregular forces in Laos, who can then receive limited state benefits such as a veteran designation on a license or ID.
Who it may help: Veteran who served with SGU or irregular forces in Laos and obtains an MDVA Certificate of Eligibility, generally after a VA burial pre-need determination. Dates and steps are on the page. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Recreation
DNR Hunting, Fishing and Training Benefits for Military and Veterans
Minnesota DNR lists license, lottery preference and park permit benefits for active-duty members, recently discharged residents, veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability and Purple Heart recipients, plus a free magazine subscription offer.
Who it may help: Benefits differ by group, such as residents on leave, residents discharged within 24 months from federal active service outside the U.S., resident veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability, and Purple Heart recipients. Proof such as orders, discharge papers or VA documentation is required. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Free State Park Vehicle Permit for Military and Veterans
A free year-round vehicle permit for Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for active military and dependents, veterans with a service-connected disability, and Purple Heart recipients.
Who it may help: Show one of the page's listed documents: current military orders with military ID, an annual federal recreation access pass with military ID, or a determination letter or VA Healthcare ID showing a service-connected disability with photo ID. Show it at the DNR license center in St. Paul or a staffed park ranger station. The page does not list separate documents for Purple Heart recipients. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Permanent Angling License for 100 Percent Disabled Veterans
Minnesota resident veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability can apply to the DNR for a permanent angling license; the page lists no fee.
Who it may help: Minnesota resident veteran with a 100 percent VA service-connected disability who submits the DNR application and satisfactory VA evidence. The page says permanence is indicated by a physician or chiropractor on the application; otherwise the permit is valid for two years. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Transportation
Veteran Specialized License Plates
Minnesota offers many specialized plates for qualifying veterans and service members, such as Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, Ex-POW and Gold Star plates. They can be combined with the disability parking symbol for qualified applicants.
Who it may help: The page says plates go on vehicles owned or jointly owned by the veteran. Ex-POW, Medal of Honor and Gold Star plates carry no plate fee; other plates have fees listed on the page. Additional requirements apply for individual plates; confirm with Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
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