New Jersey veteran benefits
Veteran Compass lists 35 New Jersey 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 New Jersey; see the full directory or use the Benefit Finder.
Burial
BG William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery
New Jersey's state-operated veterans cemetery in Arneytown, Burlington County. The page does not state costs or arrangement steps.
Who it may help: Eligibility covers veterans, certain active-duty and reserve service members, certain dependents, and certain merchant mariners and civilians granted veteran status, following VA guidelines. Detailed criteria are on a separate eligibility page; confirm with the cemetery. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
NJ Military Funeral Honors
Explains how families and funeral directors can arrange military honors at a veteran's funeral. The state agency does not perform the honors itself; the page describes who to contact.
Who it may help: The page describes honors for honorably discharged veterans, with larger details for retirees, Medal of Honor recipients and active-duty deaths. Proof of service such as a DD 214 or NGB 22 is needed. Funeral directors usually make the request, but families may also apply. Army veterans buried in New Jersey go through a Casualty Assistance Center contact listed on the page; other requests go through the branch of service. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Disability
Catastrophic Entitlement
A monthly state payment for New Jersey residents with a wartime permanent service-connected disability that causes one of the listed catastrophic conditions. Surviving spouses may also be eligible.
Who it may help: New Jersey resident with a permanent wartime service-connected disability causing a listed condition such as loss of sight, certain amputations, paraplegia or quadriplegia. Surviving spouses may qualify. Confirm with the DVA. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Education
War Orphans Tuition Assistance
Annual tuition help for children of service members who died in service, died of a service-connected disability, or are officially missing in action.
Who it may help: Covers children of service personnel who died in the military or due to service-connected disabilities, or who are officially listed as missing in action. The veteran must have been a state resident and the child must be a resident. Contact the DVA for application details. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Troops to College Program
A state hub from the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education that points veterans to campus veterans' assistance officer contacts and the veteran programs and services at New Jersey public colleges, plus some independent and proprietary schools.
Who it may help: Aimed at veterans exploring college options. The page does not set eligibility rules or describe a state tuition benefit; it also describes federal programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and refers readers to the VA for their rules. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Employment
Civil Service Preference for Veterans
Qualified veterans who pass an open competitive civil service exam are ranked ahead of non-veterans, and eligible disabled veterans are ranked ahead of both. Some surviving spouses and parents may also qualify.
Who it may help: Honorable discharge from active duty within a qualifying war era or listed operation, meeting the minimum service days on the page; reserve or National Guard training duty does not count. Disabled veterans preference additionally needs a VA rating of at least 10%. Spouses and parents have separate conditions. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Veterans Status for State Pensions
Lets eligible veterans who are members of the state Public Employees' Retirement System or Teachers' Pension and Annuity Fund qualify for Veterans Retirement, which has different terms than standard service retirement. The page says this status does not transfer to a spouse.
Who it may help: Veterans enrolled in PERS or TPAF who have an honorable discharge and active duty during a qualifying war era. The page describes a combat-theater day requirement for most periods and a separate rule for Vietnam-era service. Applicants complete the Application for Veteran Designation for Pension. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Veteran-Owned and Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Certification
New Jersey's business certification program certifies veteran-owned and disabled veteran-owned businesses, which can make them eligible for select state set-aside or goal-based contracting. The page says the application fee has been waived.
Who it may help: The business must have its principal place of business in New Jersey, be independently owned and operated, and be at least 51 percent owned by veterans (or owned and controlled by disabled veterans for that category, or verified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as service-disabled veteran-owned). Veteran certification also requires veteran control of management and daily operations. Required application documents are listed elsewhere; confirm with the certifying office. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Educator Certification Help for Veterans and Military Spouses
The Department of Education offers expedited review of teaching certificate applications and a fee waiver for one endorsement on the initial application for veterans and military spouses. Nonresident active-duty military spouses can apply for a temporary instructional certificate.
Who it may help: Applicants mark their military status on the application and submit both sides of a military ID and/or a DD-214. The temporary instructional certificate is for nonresident active-duty military spouses. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
A Hero's Welcome to NJ (Professional Licensing Help)
A Division of Consumer Affairs program that helps military spouses with out-of-state professional licenses get licensed in New Jersey and helps veterans with civilian licensing after service. The state page dates from 2020, so confirm current details with the agency.
Who it may help: Military spouses must hold a professional license from another state. The page does not list specific criteria for veterans. Additional requirements apply; confirm with the Division of Consumer Affairs. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Homegrown by Heroes Farmer Veteran Label
New Jersey is a state partner in a label that lets farmer veterans mark their products as veteran-produced. The label is certified by the Farmer Veteran Coalition and the page lists marketing and consultation support.
Who it may help: The page requires a veteran or active-duty member who served honorably, at least 50 percent ownership and 50 percent managerial control of the farm business, and registration with the Jersey Fresh Quality Grading Program. Apply through the Homegrown by Heroes website, which lists additional eligibility requirements. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Family
Gold Star Families State Benefits Overview
A state Department of Veterans Affairs page that gathers benefits for Gold Star family members, including tuition help for war orphans, property tax relief for surviving spouses, civil service preference and the Survivor Outreach Services program, and points to county Veteran Service Offices for help applying.
Who it may help: The page describes Gold Star families as immediate relatives of service members killed in combat or in support of certain military activities. Each listed benefit has its own rules (for example residency, wartime service or relationship). Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Financial
Veteran Income Tax Exemption
New Jersey allows an additional exemption on the state income tax return for honorably discharged veterans. Proof of discharge is required the first time it is claimed.
Who it may help: Veteran honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active duty by the last day of the tax year. A spouse or civil union partner who is also a qualifying veteran may claim on a joint return; surviving spouses have limited rules. Mark the exemption on the return and provide a DD-214 or similar proof. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Military Pension Income Tax Treatment
New Jersey does not tax U.S. military pension and survivor benefit payments, which are generally paid through the Defense Finance and Accounting Service. Federal civil service pensions are treated differently.
Who it may help: Applies to U.S. military pensions and survivor benefit payments. Federal civil service pensions from OPM remain taxable even if based partly on military credit. The page also covers other military pay rules. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Annual Veterans Property Tax Deduction
New Jersey offers an annual property tax deduction to honorably discharged veterans with active duty service, and certain unremarried surviving spouses and partners. You apply through your local assessor or tax collector.
Who it may help: Veterans must be honorably discharged with active duty service, a New Jersey resident and own the property as of October 1 of the pretax year; Reservists and National Guard must have been called to active duty. Surviving spouses, civil union or domestic partners may qualify if the service member died on active duty and they have not remarried. Submit Form V.S.S. with supporting documents such as a DD 214. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
100% Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
A property tax exemption on the main home for honorably discharged veterans rated 100 percent permanently and totally disabled by the VA from a service-connected condition. Certain surviving spouses, civil union partners and domestic partners may also qualify.
Who it may help: Veteran with active duty service and an honorable discharge, certified by the VA as 100 percent permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected condition, who is a New Jersey legal resident and owns and lives in the home as a main residence. A surviving spouse, civil union partner or domestic partner who has not remarried may qualify if the veteran met the service and disability conditions. File the application with your local assessor. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Wounded Warrior Caregivers Tax Credit
A state income tax credit for family caregivers of a service member with a disability from service in a conflict on or after September 11, 2001. The credit is the lesser of the federal disability compensation or a capped dollar amount stated on the page.
Who it may help: The caregiver must have provided care for a relative who is a qualifying service member (the page lists relationships, including by marriage) and must meet the page's gross income limits, which differ by filing status. Claimed on Schedule NJ-WWC with the NJ income tax return, or on Form NJ-1040-HW if no return is required. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Active Military Service Property Tax Deferment
Lets service members who are deployed or mobilized for active wartime service defer their property tax bill. Deferred taxes come due within a set period after deployment ends, and the page notes interest rules for late payment.
Who it may help: The property must be owned solely by the service member, or jointly with a spouse or civil union partner. Filing is with the municipal tax collector on Form AMSPTD with deployment orders and a DD 214; someone may file on the member's behalf. Taxes already delinquent and municipal utility charges are not covered. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Vehicle Sales Tax Relief for Service Members and Disabled Veterans
Resident service members stationed out of state may defer sales tax on a car bought outside New Jersey, and the portion of a car purchase funded by the VA or the state veterans department is not subject to sales tax for disabled veterans.
Who it may help: For deferment, the member must be a New Jersey resident stationed out of state, complete a notarized Form MD-1 and obtain a Letter of Deferment; only one vehicle may be deferred at a time. For the disabled veteran exemption, the funds must come directly from the VA or state veterans department; the vehicle is fully exempt only when those funds equal the total price, and any amount paid out of pocket is taxed. The page does not describe a claim process for the exemption. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Healthcare
Veterans Memorial Homes
State veterans nursing homes in Paramus, Menlo Park (Edison) and Vineland offering nursing, rehabilitation and recreation. Residents pay based on ability to pay as determined by income.
Who it may help: Open to honorably discharged veterans, veterans' spouses, and Gold Star parents. Applicants who lived in New Jersey at least two years before applying get preference. Apply through the specific home. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
PTSD and Readjustment Counseling
A State-offered counseling program for combat veterans from all war periods dealing with PTSD and readjustment, extended to family members affected by the veteran's condition.
Who it may help: The page says combat veterans of all eras and affected family members can receive treatment but lists no further criteria. Contact a local Veterans Service Officer or the DVA for details. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
SaveNJVets Suicide Prevention Connection Resources
A state effort to prevent veteran suicide. This page lists peer and community supports including Vets4Warriors, Warriors Welcome virtual peer groups, Onward Ops sponsors and the NJ Veterans Network.
Who it may help: The page does not set eligibility rules; the resources are described as supports for veterans, service members and families, and some partner programs may have their own requirements. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
NJ Vet2Vet Support Line
A 24/7 statewide support service for New Jersey National Guard members, active military personnel, veterans, their families and caregivers, reachable by phone or online chat. The state Department of Health lists it among its suicide prevention resources.
Who it may help: The page lists New Jersey National Guard members, active military personnel, veterans, families and caregivers as the people served, statewide. No application is described. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Housing
Veterans Haven North Transitional Housing
A transitional housing program in Glen Gardner for homeless veterans, with a two-year program, professional support staff and an on-site Veterans Service Officer.
Who it may help: Must be homeless, a veteran under VA guidelines, registered with the VA and free of drugs and alcohol at admission, though a few exceptions may be possible. Contact the admissions office listed on the page. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Veterans Haven South Transitional Housing
A state-run transitional housing facility in Winslow for homeless veterans, with staff who focus on psychological, social and vocational rehabilitation. Residents must follow program rules, including staying sober.
Who it may help: The page lists these requirements: applicant is homeless, is a veteran under VA guidelines, is registered with the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, is drug- and alcohol-free at admission, and has a recent negative TB test. Veterans who do not meet every criterion may still be considered under a Grant and Per Diem option with limited spaces. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Legal
Veterans Diversion Program
A state program created by law that supports eligible veterans alleged to have committed an eligible offense by pairing them with volunteer mentors who help them access assistance. The page says mentors are still being recruited, and that Veterans Service Officers can help with benefit questions.
Who it may help: The page says the program is for veterans alleged to have committed an eligible offense but does not define which offenses count. Additional requirements apply; confirm with the NJ Department of Veterans Affairs. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Other
County Veterans Service Offices
The Department of Veterans Affairs runs a Veterans Service Office in each of the state's 21 counties, staffed by accredited officers who help veterans and dependents access local, state and federal benefits.
Who it may help: Serves veterans and their dependents. Hours and contacts vary by county; see the page for the toll-free line and county details. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Veterans Registry (Outreach Contact Form)
An online form on the NJ Department of Veterans Affairs site, titled as an outreach contact form, where veterans submit contact and service details. The page does not explain its purpose or what happens after submission.
Who it may help: The page does not list eligibility rules. The form asks for contact information plus military details such as branch, service dates, rank and discharge type. Questions can go to the department's outreach contacts listed on the page. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Veterans Stand Down Outreach Events
The state Department of Veterans Affairs Stand Down page links to an outreach schedule document and to photo albums from past Stand Down events, including ones labeled North Jersey and South Jersey. The page itself does not list dates or describe the services offered.
Who it may help: The page does not state eligibility rules or list the services provided. Use the outreach schedule link and the department's contact details on the page to confirm dates and what is offered. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Women Veterans Information and Resources
An information hub for women veterans that points to state and national resources and says female service officers are available in North, South and Central Jersey. It also lists a contact for the women veterans office.
Who it may help: The page does not set formal eligibility rules; it is aimed at women veterans, though some resources it lists also cover current service members or National Guard and Reserve families. Some resources have their own limits, such as county-based or honorable-discharge requirements. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
State Military Records Requests
The state Department of Veterans Affairs accepts requests for New Jersey Army and Air National Guard records and certain DD Form 214s. The page says there is normally no fee.
Who it may help: Current and former service members or their next of kin can request records, with proof of death for next of kin; others need a power of attorney or written authorization. Requests use Standard Form 180 sent by email, fax or mail. Records outside the state's holdings must be requested from federal sources. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
Recreation
Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
New Jersey residents who are honorably discharged veterans with a VA-recognized service-connected disability may receive free resident hunting and fishing licenses, stamps and permits. Applications are by mail.
Who it may help: Honorably discharged New Jersey resident of at least six months with a service-connected disability found by the VA. Submit proof of disability, proof of discharge and residency with the application to the Division of Fish and Wildlife. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Transportation
Veteran Designation on License or ID
New Jersey MVC adds a veteran designation to driver licenses and non-driver IDs. Replacements to add it are issued at no fee; the page does not state fees for new or renewed licenses.
Who it may help: Honorable discharge or General Discharge under Honorable Conditions, shown with a DD-214, DD-215 or other listed proof. Apply at an MVC agency, or by mail for replacements. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Disabled Veteran and Purple Heart Parking Placards
MVC issues placards to disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients that can exempt the vehicle from municipal parking meter fees under specific conditions on the page. They cannot be used in spaces labeled for persons with disabilities.
Who it may help: Must be a disabled veteran or Purple Heart recipient who owns the vehicle, with a DD-214 and VA disability letter or Purple Heart proof. Submit form SP-47 at an MVC agency or by mail. Placards are recertified every 3 years. Fees are not stated on the page. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-22
Military and Veteran Special License Plates
The Motor Vehicle Commission lists special plates for several military groups, including Reserve branches, National Guard, Disabled American Veterans, Combat Infantryman Badge, Medal of Honor, Gold Star Family, Navy Cross, Silver Star and Prisoner of War. Fees differ by plate, and the page shows some at no charge.
Who it may help: The page says Reserve plates are for people actively or inactively registered in the military; other plates are tied to the award or status listed, such as Medal of Honor holders, and the Gold Star Family plate is applied for through NJ Gold Star Mothers. Applications are mailed to the Special Plate Unit. Additional requirements apply; confirm with the MVC. Check the official page for current rules.
Official source ↗ (opens in a new tab)Reviewed 2026-10-24
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